Arches National Park Utah, USA Travel Guide
This park adjoins Arches National Park, featuring vast canyon and mesa landscapes carved by the Green and Colorado Rivers. Expansive views contrast with Arches' focused formations.
Approximately a 30-40 minute drive from Moab to the Island in the Sky Visitor Center. The scenic drive is well-paved. Easy to explore independently with a rental car. Many guided jeep, mountain bike, and hiking tours are bookable from Moab that combine areas of Arches and Canyonlands. Independent travel yields flexibility; tours deliver local insight and access to specific activities. Find day trip options here.
Explore additional natural and cultural sites close to Moab.
Stunning canyon views, comparable to parts of the Grand Canyon. Noted for the Goose Neck bend of the Colorado River, flowing nearly 2,000 feet below the overlook. Approximately a 45-minute drive from Moab; well-maintained scenic drive.
Beyond the parks, find iconic mountain biking and scenic hikes.
Extend your trip to explore more of Utah's famous national parks.
Approx. 2.5-hour drive west from Moab. Features unique geological folds, historic orchards, and a scenic drive. A less visited park, it presents a quieter experience.
These two parks are approx. 4-6 hours drive southwest from Moab. Bryce Canyon is noted for its "hoodoos"; Zion features slot canyons, towering cliffs, and river walks. Often combined with Arches.
Approx. 2.5-hour drive south from Moab. This iconic butte landscape is managed by the Navajo Nation and presents stunning views, notably at sunrise or sunset.
All these destinations are best accessed by rental car. No direct public transport connects them efficiently. Road conditions are generally good.
This popular road trip visits all five of Utah's National Parks: Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands.
Major U.S. Carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile offer mobile service in Moab. Verizon often has reliable coverage. Park coverage may be limited.
Explore options for connectivity and travel assistance beyond standard services.
Arches National Park is open 24 hours a day, year-round. The Visitor Center has seasonal hours, typically 8 AM - 4:30 PM, with extended hours during peak season.
U.S. Federal Holidays lead to increased crowds. Park roads may close in winter due to snow. Some Moab businesses reduce hours in the deep off-season (e.g., January-February).
Enhance your travel experience with these airport-related services.
Frequent travelers benefit from independent airport lounge access around the world. Relax before your flight. Learn more.
A service aiding customers in receiving compensation for flight delays, cancellations, or denied boarding. Claim compensation here.
A U.S. Post Office is in Moab. Send postcards or packages from here.
Casual greetings are typical in the U.S. And Moab (e.g., "Hello," "Hi"). A nod or smile is usually sufficient in passing.
Photography for personal use is permitted. Drones are not allowed in the park. Respect privacy; ask permission before photographing individuals.
Casual, outdoor-oriented attire is appropriate. Avoid discussing politics or religion unless initiated. Moab is generally welcoming to all travelers, including LGBTQ+ visitors.
The Visitor Center is fully accessible. Limited accessible trails exist (e.g., a paved portion of the Park Avenue Viewpoint and some paved sections of the Balanced Rock Loop).
The Arches Scenic Drive is fully accessible by vehicle, allowing enjoyment of many views from pull-offs and designated viewpoints. Many hotels and restaurants in Moab are accessible.
