Top Five Hiking Trails In Arches National Park
Arches National Park, located in southeastern Utah, is a wonderland of stunning geological formations, including over 2,000 natural stone arches. The park provides an unforgettable hiking experience for outdoor enthusiasts of all skill levels.
In this article, we’ll explore the top five hiking trails in Arches National Park, detailing how to access each trail, their difficulty levels, descriptions of the views and settings, and estimated completion times. We’ll also discuss nearby campgrounds for those looking to stay overnight.
Delicate Arch Trail
The Delicate Arch Trail in Arches National Park is a 3-mile round trip hike that offers an unforgettable experience for hikers of varying skill levels. Located in the park’s eastern region, near the Colorado River, the trail begins at the Wolfe Ranch parking area, which is approximately 11.5 miles from the Arches Visitor Center along the Arches Scenic Drive.
The trail’s setting is striking, as it weaves through a dynamic landscape that includes colorful desert plants, towering sandstone formations, and the famous balanced rock. As you hike, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the La Sal Mountains and the vast desert expanse, providing a true sense of the park’s grandeur.
The Delicate Arch Trail typically takes 2 to 3 hours to complete.
How to Access the Trail
You can access the Delicate Arch Trail from the Wolfe Ranch parking area, located approximately 11.5 miles from the Arches Visitor Center along the Arches Scenic Drive.
Difficulty Level
The Delicate Arch Trail is considered moderately difficult, making it suitable for experienced hikers and those with a moderate fitness level. The hike features a steady climb with an elevation gain of approximately 480 feet, and some sections of the trail may expose hikers to heights. Additionally, there are a few spots with uneven terrain and slickrock, which require caution and careful footing.
Devils Garden Loop Trail
The Devils Garden Loop is a 7.2-mile round trip hike that takes adventurers through some of the most remarkable landscapes in Arches National Park. Located at the end of the Arches Scenic Drive, about 18 miles from the Arches Visitor Center, the trail begins at the Devils Garden Trailhead.
As hikers traverse the moderately difficult trail, they’ll encounter a variety of unique sandstone formations and arches, including Tunnel Arch, Pine Tree Arch, and the impressive Landscape Arch, which spans 306 feet. The trail’s setting features a mix of slickrock, sand, and desert vegetation, offering an immersive experience in the park’s diverse desert ecosystem.
Additionally, the Devils Garden Loop also offers an optional side trail to the Double O Arch, providing even more opportunities for adventure.
The trail takes approximately 4 to 5 hours to complete.
How to Access the Trail
The Devils Garden Loop Trail can be accessed from the Devils Garden Trailhead, located at the end of the Arches Scenic Drive, about 18 miles from the Arches Visitor Center.
Difficulty Level
The Devils Garden Loop requires a moderate to high fitness level, as it involves navigating steep inclines, uneven terrain, and some minor rock scrambling. Hikers should be prepared for a challenging yet rewarding experience that showcases the park’s stunning geological features.
Fiery Furnace Hike
The Fiery Furnace Hike is a unique, ranger-guided tour that takes hikers on a 2-mile journey through a labyrinth of sandstone fins and narrow passageways in Arches National Park. Located 14 miles from the Arches Visitor Center along the Arches Scenic Drive, the hike begins at the Fiery Furnace Viewpoint parking area.
The moderately difficult hike exposes participants to a variety of geological wonders, including hidden arches and fascinating rock formations. The trail navigates through tight spaces and uneven terrain, making it essential for hikers to have good balance, agility, and a sense of adventure.
The Fiery Furnace Hike requires a permit, and you can make reservations at the Arches Visitor Center. The hike provides an up-close and personal experience with the park’s unique geology, making it a must-do for anyone visiting Arches National Park.
The Fiery Furnace Hike takes about 3 hours to complete.
How to Access the Trail
You can access the Fiery Furnace Hike from the Fiery Furnace Viewpoint parking area, located about 14 miles from the Arches Visitor Center along the Arches Scenic Drive.
Difficulty Level
People consider this 2-mile guided tour moderately difficult because it involves navigating uneven terrain and demands good balance and agility.
Windows Loop Trail
The Windows Loop Trail is a family-friendly, 1-mile round trip hike that takes visitors through the magnificent Windows section of Arches National Park. The trailhead is located about 9 miles from the Arches Visitor Center along the Arches Scenic Drive.
The easy trail offers hikers the opportunity to explore some of the park’s most massive sandstone formations, including the North Window, South Window, and Turret Arch. The surrounding landscape is characterized by dramatic red rock formations, desert plants, and stunning vistas of the surrounding desert.
The Windows Loop Trail can be completed in approximately 30 to 45 minutes.
How to Access the Trail
You can access the Windows Loop Trail from the Windows Trailhead, located about 9 miles from the Arches Visitor Center along the Arches Scenic Drive.
Difficulty Level
This easy, 1-mile round trip hike is perfect for families and those looking for a shorter, less strenuous hike.
Double O Arch Trail
The Double O Arch Trail is a 4.2-mile round trip hike that branches off from the Devils Garden Loop Trail, starting at the Devils Garden Trailhead, located at the end of the Arches Scenic Drive, about 18 miles from the Arches Visitor Center.
This moderately difficult trail takes hikers through an array of geological marvels, including the unique Double O Arch, which features two stacked arches. Along the way, hikers will also encounter the Navajo Arch and Partition Arch, both of which are impressive in their own right.
A mix of slickrock, sand, and desert vegetation characterizes the trail’s setting, which provides a diverse and captivating hiking experience. The Double O Arch Trail requires a moderate fitness level, as it involves steep climbs and some scrambling over slickrock, making it a favorite among experienced hikers.
Double O Arch Trail takes approximately 3 to 4 hours to complete.
How to Access the Trail
The Double O Arch Trail is a 4.2-mile round trip hike that branches off from the Devils Garden Loop Trail. Access the trail from the Devils Garden Trailhead, located at the end of the Arches Scenic Drive, about 18 miles from the Arches Visitor Center.
Difficulty Level
People consider this trail moderately difficult as it features steep climbs and requires some scrambling over slickrock.
Nearby Campgrounds
Arches National Park houses only one campground, the Devils Garden Campground. Situated near the Devils Garden Trailhead, this campground offers convenient access to several hiking trails, such as the Devils Garden Loop Trail and Double O Arch Trail. We highly recommend making reservations in advance due to limited availability.
For additional camping options, the nearby town of Moab offers several private campgrounds and RV parks. Additionally, there are campgrounds in the surrounding Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas and other nearby public lands.
Conclusion
Arches National Park offers a diverse range of hiking trails that showcase its breathtaking geological wonders. From the iconic Delicate Arch Trail to the challenging Devils Garden Loop Trail, there’s something for every hiker to enjoy. With careful planning and preparation, including considering nearby campgrounds for overnight stays, you’ll be ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure in this spectacular park.
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FAQs
What is the entrance fee for Arches National Park?
The entrance fee for a private vehicle is $30, valid for seven days. There are also annual passes and other options available.
Is there a shuttle service available in the park?
As of the knowledge cutoff in September 2021, there is no shuttle service within Arches National Park.
Are bicycles allowed on the hiking trails in Arches National Park?
The park does not permit bicycles on any of its hiking trails. Bikers can only use paved and unpaved roads for biking.
Are there any ranger-led programs available in the park?
Yes, ranger-led programs such as guided hikes, talks, and evening campfire programs are available seasonally. Check the park’s website or visitor center for the current schedule.
Is Arches National Park open year-round?
Yes, the park remains open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, but during the winter months, some facilities and services might operate with limited hours or close altogether.
What are your favorite hiking trails in Arches National Park? Let us know in the comments below!