ExploreParksUSA

Parks / Arches National Park

Arches National Park

National Park · UT

Discover a landscape of contrasting colors, land forms, and textures unlike any other. The park has over 2,000 natural stone arches, hundreds of soaring pinnacles, massive rock fins, and giant balanced rocks. This red-rock wonderland will amaze you with its formations, refresh you with its trails, and inspire you with its sunsets.

Official NPS page →

Current Alerts (2)

Caution

No Wood or Charcoal Fires Allowed - Stage 2 Fire Restrictions in Effect

All fires are prohibited. Only petroleum or propane-fueled stoves or grills are allowed in backcountry campsites, campgrounds, and picnic areas. Fireworks are never allowed. Smoke only inside vehicles or in developed areas over 3 feet from flammables.

Information

Trip-planning tips for 2026

Planning to visit Arches this year? To ensure the best experience, please anticipate potentially long wait times at the entrance station. If trailhead parking is full, plan to return a little later. Please avoid parking on vegetation and roadways to help preserve this beautiful place for everyone to enjoy.

Entrance Fees

Campgrounds (1)

Devils Garden Campground

Camp among slickrock outcroppings at Devils Garden Campground, 18 miles from the park entrance. Facilities include drinking water, picnic tables, grills, and both pit-style and flush toilets. You can reserve standard campsites up to 6 months in advance for stays March 1-October 31. All sites are usually reserved months in advance. Between November 1 and February 28, sites are first-come, first-served. Winter campers are encouraged to download the Recreation.gov app **before arriving** to use for payment.

Details →

Upcoming Events

National Day of Service at Arches

Sep 11, 2026 · TBD, will be announced one week prior to the event

Arches in the Evening: Art Tailgate Party

Sep 19, 2026 · La Sal Mountain Viewpoint

Service Saturday: Volunteer Event

Sep 26, 2026

Things to Do

Arches Junior Ranger Program

Filled with fun activities, free Arches Junior Ranger books reveal the wonders of Arches to kids and parents alike.

Backpacking at Arches

Backpacking at Arches is allowed in designated sites only and requires a permit.

Canyoneering at Arches

Arches has no real "slot canyons" but does afford some unique on-rope opportunities.

Enjoy Arches from the Road

If you pay close attention, you can see close to two dozen arches from the comfort of your car.

Explore the Fiery Furnace

Entry to the Fiery Furnace is managed by permits and ranger-led tours to ensure the experience of solitude and wilderness.

Hiking at Arches

Arches contains a variety of hiking trails, from easy/moderate to long and strenuous. Many trails use cairns (stacks of rocks) for markers and cross broad rock surfaces, requiring attention to follow. Learn how to Protect Yourself and Protect Your Park with hiking safety and Leave No Trace tips.

Rock Climbing at Arches

Most climbing routes in the park require advanced techniques. Climbing is not allowed on any arches or certain named features, such as Balanced Rock.

Stargaze at Panorama Point

Arches National Park and the surrounding Colorado Plateau offer some of the darkest night skies remaining in the United States. You can enjoy the park after dark by viewing spectacular night skies.

Stargazing Events in Southeast Utah

Rangers occasionally lead stargazing programs and events at parks throughout southeast Utah. Learn about what to expect and check out a schedule of stargazing events at Arches and Canyonlands national parks and Hovenweep and Natural Bridges national monuments. Even when formal programs are not offered, people are welcome to enjoy the parks after dark on their own.

Start at Arches Visitor Center

Stop at the visitor center to plan your visit, fill your water bottle, learn about the park, and pick up a souvenir.

Visitor Centers

  • Arches Visitor Center

Webcams

Source: National Park Service.

Arches National Park: Alerts, Camping & Things to Do | ExploreParksUSA