MileHacker Logo
Arches National Park Travel Resources

Arches National Park Travel Resources

Arches National Park Utah, USA Travel Guide

Digital Resources

Essential Apps

  • NPS App

    Download Arches content offline for park information, maps, and alerts.

  • Recreation.gov

    Book Timed Entry and Devils Garden Campground reservations.

  • AllTrails/Gaia GPS

    Download offline maps for trail navigation without cell service.

  • Weather Apps

    Use NOAA Weather for current conditions and accurate forecasts.

  • Stargazing Apps

    SkyView Lite or Star Walk 2 aid in identifying celestial objects.

Useful Websites

  • NPS Arches Official Website

    Nps.gov/arch is the most accurate source for official park information and alerts.

  • Discover Moab

    Discovermoab.com provides information on local accommodations and activities.

  • Recreation.gov (Beyond Reservations)

    Explore information on various federal recreation sites, including BLM campgrounds.

  • Official Social Media

    Follow NPS Arches accounts for updates and beautiful photos.

  • Podcasts & Digital Content

    Search for content on Utah National Parks or Colorado Plateau geology.

Connect Securely

Park Social Media

Follow official NPS Arches accounts for current conditions and inspiring images.

Visit NPS Arches Site

Local Moab Info

Local Moab tourism accounts share helpful tips on events and local attractions.

Discover Moab

Secure Online Access

Protect your data on public Wi-Fi. A VPN is useful for secure browsing.

NordVPN

Print Resources

Maps and Guidebooks

  • Free maps are available at the Arches Visitor Center.
  • The National Geographic Trails Illustrated Map offers detailed topography.
  • Consider local hiking guidebooks for detailed trail descriptions.
  • Print maps are essential for offline navigation.

Books and Local Reads

  • "Desert Solitaire" by Edward Abbey, a classic non-fiction work.
  • Explore books on regional geology and Native American history.
  • The "Moab Times-Independent" provides local news.
  • Local visitor guides feature current event listings.

Emergency & Medical

Emergency Numbers

  • Emergency (Police, Fire, Medical): 911
  • Arches National Park Dispatch: (435) 719-2100
  • Moab Regional Hospital: (435) 719-3500
  • Use park dispatch for non-life-threatening issues.

Medical Facilities

  • Moab Regional Hospital: 400 Hospital Dr, Moab, UT 84532.
  • Moab Valley Clinic: 250 Hospital Dr, Moab, UT 84532.
  • Moab Regional Hospital is the main medical facility in the area.
  • It provides emergency care.

Lost Document Steps

  • If documents are lost, file a police report.
  • Immediately contact your embassy or consulate.
  • Keep embassy contact information readily available.
  • This applies to international visitors.

Important Safety Message

Safety Information

General Warnings

  • Always heed all park warnings and advisories.
  • These guidelines exist for your protection.
  • They assist in maintaining a safe environment.
  • Prioritize safety throughout your visit.

Flash Flood Protocols

  • Move to high ground immediately if caught in a flash flood.
  • Do not attempt to cross flooded washes.
  • Stay informed via weather alerts and park warnings.
  • Rapidly changing conditions can occur.

Wildfire Awareness

  • Adhere to park ranger instructions for evacuations.
  • Note any road closures due to fire.
  • Stay aware of current fire restrictions.
  • Protect yourself and the park's ecosystem.

Further Reading & Exploration

Documentaries & Films

  • Many documentaries feature National Parks and Colorado Plateau geology.
  • Look for films focusing on unique rock formations.
  • These visuals deepen your appreciation for the ecosystem.

Online Communities

  • Online communities like Reddit (r/NationalParks) exist.
  • Forums like r/Moab offer a place to ask questions.
  • Get tips from other travelers and share experiences.

Cultural Connections

Music & Art

  • Explore music inspired by the American Southwest.
  • Discover art depicting desert landscapes.
  • This deepens your appreciation for the region's unique character.

Regional Connections

  • The "Mighty 5" Utah National Parks offer popular road trips.
  • Combine your trip with visits to Colorado's mountains.
  • Or explore Arizona's deserts for a broader Southwest experience.

Return Visit Suggestions

Seasonal Beauty

  1. Return in winter to see snow on the arches.
  2. This provides unique photography opportunities.
  3. Experience a quieter park atmosphere.
  4. Plan a stargazing-focused trip during a new moon.
  5. For the best views of the Milky Way.

New Activities

  1. Explore different, less-trafficked trails.
  2. Engage in activities like canyoneering.
  3. Try mountain biking, which offers new perspectives.
  4. Consider a photography workshop.
  5. These activities open new ways to experience the landscape.

Beyond the Parks

Red Rock & Canyon

For similar geological wonders, visit Canyonlands National Park or Capitol Reef.

Mountains & Forests

Seek cooler temperatures and alpine environments at Rocky Mountain or Zion National Parks.

Desert & Dark Skies

Experience extreme desert landscapes at Death Valley or incredibly dark skies at Great Basin.

Embrace the Wonder

Your visit to Arches National Park is an opportunity to connect with an ancient and powerful landscape.

Local Insights

Common Tourist Mistakes

Preparation Oversights

  • Underestimating Heat/Sun

    This is a desert. Bring and drink more water than you think you need. Wear sun protection.

  • Timed Entry Neglect

    If visiting during peak season, failing to get a reservation prevents park entry during restricted hours.

  • Not Booking Ahead

    Accommodations and popular tours in Moab book out months in advance during peak season.

Environmental Missteps

  • Ignoring Biological Soil Crust

    Do not step off marked trails. This fragile living soil takes hundreds of years to form.

  • Relying on Cell Service

    Cell service is spotty to non-existent. Download maps and information offline.

  • Improper Waste Disposal

    Pack out all trash. Leave no trace of your visit behind.

Local Customs & Norms

Leave No Trace

Leave No Trace principles are deeply ingrained in Moab's outdoor culture.

Learn the Principles

Trail Etiquette

Be courteous on trails. Share the path, especially with uphill hikers who have the right-of-way.

Trail Safety Tips

Impressing Locals

Demonstrating genuine respect for the environment and park rules is appreciated.

Responsible Recreation

Solo Traveler Advice

Solo Traveler Safety

  • Inform someone of your hiking itinerary.
  • Carry a Satellite messenger device for remote areas.
  • Stick to well-trafficked trails.
  • Avoid hiking alone in extreme heat.

Social Opportunities

  • Join ranger programs for social interaction.
  • Guided tours offer chances to meet other travelers.
  • Learn from experienced guides.
  • Connect with like-minded explorers.

Family & Group Advice

Family-Friendly Adaptations

  • Junior Ranger Program at the Visitor Center for kids.
  • Focus on shorter, easier trails like Balanced Rock and The Windows.
  • Pack plenty of water and snacks for children.
  • Ensure children are well-protected with hats and sunscreen.

Managing Group Logistics

  • One timed entry reservation covers one vehicle.
  • Devils Garden Campground has limited large sites for groups.
  • Book group tours well in advance due to limited space.
  • Refer to Section 11.4 for accessibility information.
← Previous
Arches National Park Travel Hacks
← Back to Arches National Park
Next →
Arches National Park Travel Checklist

Next Up: Arches National Park Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation

Continue to Arches National Park Travel Checklist