I recently visited Arches National Park, and I have to say—it’s one of the most breathtaking places I’ve ever seen. Whether you're solo, with family, or on a road trip with friends, this park is something special. But let me start with a few important tips before you go.
First things first: be prepared before you arrive. You must have a timed entry reservation and your pass purchased online in advance. It’s about $30 per vehicle, which is totally worth it. There’s a sign before you enter reminding you to buy the ticket—but don’t count on having cell service in that area. There’s often no signal, so it’s best to book your time slot and pay ahead of time while you still have internet access. You can also look up “Arches timed entry” on Google and do it there easily.
Once you get inside, the visitor center is really well done—clean, informative, and full of helpful rangers, maps, and souvenirs. It’s a great stop before you head deeper into the park.
Now the real magic begins—the drive through Arches is like nothing else. If you’re a fan of geology, this is paradise. Everywhere you turn, there are massive red rock formations, stunning arches, spires, and landscapes that look like something from another planet. Some of the must-see spots include Delicate Arch, Landscape Arch, and the Windows Section. You can stop along the scenic drive, hike a bit, or just soak it all in.
A lot of people camp here too, and if that’s your thing, it’s a great place to camp under the stars. But be smart about it—find safe, designated areas and always check with the visitor center about wildlife or weather conditions. I didn’t see any big animals, just a few squirrels, but signs in the park mention that some wildlife is present. As they say—prevention is better than cure—so don’t take chances at night.
If you're visiting during the summer, bring LOTS of water. The desert sun is no joke, and you can get dehydrated quickly. I recommend taking a few gallons per person, especially if you're hiking.
Overall, Arches National Park is a masterpiece of nature. It’s quiet, surreal, and humbling. Whether you’re chasing the golden light at sunset, camping under the stars, or just enjoying a scenic drive, this place gives you something you’ll remember forever.
Highly recommend adding this to your bucket list. Just plan ahead, stay safe, and let the desert show you something incredible. If you found my favorite 😍 spot from the first picture then cheers 🍻 👏 ✌️ Note : Don't worry we got plenty of bathrooms here starting from visitor center and on the way in the...
Read moreWe got out well before sunrise and hit the Delicate Arch trail. We made it to the arch a solid hour before sunrise and it was chilly up there but beautiful. I would recommend that you look for trail markers as you're going up because there was a couple times we got a little lost in the dark and the trail wasn't marked as well. That was the part where you climb pretty steeply up some stone and the markers were far apart. Just keep going up the stone and PAY ATTENTION. We also went super early because you are required to buy a timed ticket if you enter the park between 0700-1700 (5pm) during summer hours that you must reserve MONTHS in advance. If you enter the park before 0700 or after 1700 you dont need a timed ticket but I think you still need to pay a fee.
Wear comfortable shoes and clothing (if you've got hiking boots, those would be best). Bring sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen. Be prepared to do a lot of walking. Don't be chump. Bring lots of water and a little electrolytes. Go really early in the morning, its a lot cooler. Even evening is hot up until like 9pm, then its a little cooler but early morning is best.
The website said that most of the campgrounds nearby fill up early in the morning but we found a site that suited our needs fairly easily. If you're tent camping you will want a site with shade, trust me on this. Grandstaff campground has lots of shade but it did fill up early. Goose Island requires site reservations WELL in advance. Devil's Garden campsites are booked months in advance as well. Drinks Canyon sites have ZERO shade, so better suited for spring/fall. Hai Campground is where we found two sites that suited our needs well.
I would recommend buying a National Geographic map of Arches because it has all the local campsites on it, trails, trailheads, roads within the park and surrounding the park as well as sights you might want to check out. We referenced the map multiple times while there.
Be safe. Don't win a Darwin Award. Don't eff with the wildlife. Clean up your messes, take your trash with you. Be a good person and a good steward and HAVE FUN! Its...
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Arches National Park: A Land of Sandstone Wonders
Arches National Park is a photographer's paradise and a hiker's dream. The park boasts a staggering collection of natural arches, but what truly sets Arches apart is the Devils Garden Campground.
Devil's Garden: Camping Among the Spires
Devil's Garden Campground isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it's an experience. Imagine waking up to a sunrise that paints the surrounding sandstone formations in hues of orange and pink. The campground itself is an amphitheater of towering fins and arches, creating a surreal backdrop for your camping adventure. And the best part? You can explore these formations right from your campsite! Look for Landscape Arch, Double Arch, and even a hidden gem: Tapestry Arch, accessible via a short trail from the campground's back.
Arches After Dark: Nightfall Magic
While Arches is undeniably stunning during the day, don't miss the park's transformation after dark. The lack of light pollution creates a perfect canvas for stargazing. Imagine sprawling out on a blanket and being dazzled by the Milky Way. Arches also offers a perk for late risers: no entrance reservation is required after 4:00 pm, allowing you to explore the park at your own pace.
Tips for Capturing Arches' Majesty
The best time to photograph Arches' masterpieces is during sunrise and sunset. The warm light casts long shadows and accentuates the textures of the sandstone, making your photos truly pop. Fortunately, you won't have to stray far for incredible shots. Many of the major arches have convenient pull-offs with restrooms, so you can comfortably capture stunning photographs andfreshen up throughout your explorations.
Arches National Park is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates natural beauty. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or a casual hiker, Arches offers something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your camera (and headlamp!), and get ready to be amazed by this...
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