Moab, Utah is home to Arches National Park. Visiting this summer was a last minute decision but we are so glad we went. It was stunning, challenging and therapeutic. It is our favorite national park we have been to so far and we are already itching to go back. If you are considering visiting, keep reading to hear about our experience and why we think you’ll love it.
The Delicate Arch Hike:
Hiking to the Delicate Arch was one of the hardest hikes we’ve ever done due to the intense heat (with zero shade). It is only a three-mile hike but feels more like six through the heat! This, however, was the highlight of our trip. It was surreal to see the “symbol of Utah” in person. It was so much bigger than we had thought (it is the largest arch in the park at 46 feet tall!). If you want to see the Delicate Arch but not the hike, you can visit either the Lower Viewpoint or Upper Viewpoint.
Our recommendations: Bring at least two water bottles a person, go as early as possible (so it isn’t the hottest part of the day), wear a lot of sunscreen and take your time soaking up the views at the arch before you head back.
The Windows Section:
The Windows Section consists of the North Window, South Window, Turret Arch and Double Arch. It is a very short, easy hike to get to and is the best place in the park to see the sunrise (definitely worth getting up early for!).
The Best Sunsets
Head on over to the Fiery Furnace for the best sunset. The name Fiery Furnace actually came from the beautiful colors that bounce of the rocks during sunsets. While we didn’t get a chance to hike the Fiery Furnace (a guided tour or hiking permit is required), we couldn’t get enough of this view at dusk.
The Double Arch
The Double Arch is easy to get to and fun to climb around once you get there. At a .5 mile hike, it is a hike anyone can enjoy. We could have stayed here all day climbing around the rocks and enjoying the beauty and amazement of the arches above us.
Logistics
We flew into Salt Lake City and rented a car to drive down to Arches. It was a long drive, but it flew by with how amazing the scenery was on the way.
We originally planned on camping in Moab and rented a tent on Air BnB (who knew that was possible!?). Once we finished our first hike of the day and realized how intensely hot it was, we had to find a hotel with air conditioning. The Moab Valley Inn took us in last minute and couldn’t have been more accommodating. The rates were reasonable and a great breakfast was included!
Aim to get into the park as early as possible. There is usually a line of cars in the mornings to get in, and you want to be sure to get some hiking in before peak temperatures hit for the day.
For more information on Arches National Park click here. If you have any questions please reach out to us! We couldn’t recommend this park more and we hope everyone gets a chance to visit someday. Thanks for reading.
Emilie & Chris
Custom Travel Planning Service 
ok officially adding this to my travel list! i haven’t been able to hike much recently but your photos have convinced me to do it anyways!! looks so fun 🙂
LikeLike