Thinking about Arches National Park? It's one of my favorite places. It's just a few hours from home, so we have been there with our kids, grandparents, and friends many times.
On one President's Day weekend in Moab, Utah, we only had half a day to spend in Arches National Park, so we focused on our favorite places and saved the rest for another time.
There are many great stops for families in Arches. Here are our favorites.
Visitor Center
Stop at the visitor center just inside the park entrance at the beginning or end of your day. This is where you'll find information about the park, Junior Ranger books, modern bathrooms, gift shop, water bottle filling station and more.
The Junior Ranger program is free and it's great for kids ages 5-12. Ask for the activity booklets at the ranger desk. Our children have collected Junior Ranger badges from national and state parks all over the U.S. It's a fun way to teach kids about the park and nature and being responsible with both.
Related: 10 Fun Things to Do in Moab, Utah
Delicate Arch
Our next stop was the Delicate Arch hike. This hike is about three miles round trip, uphill most of the way there and downhill most of the way back. There is not much shade along the way and that's what great about hiking it in February, because the temperature is just right for hiking on sun-soaked red rock with a jacket or sweatshirt that can be peeled off when you get warm.
There are not many scary ledges or technical sections along the way, so Delicate Arch is a good hike for families. However, at the arch itself, there are some big, unfenced drops. My kids were fine and I grabbed their hands when I was anxious, but I recently spoke with a friend who took five young children on this hike and the risks worried her so much that she couldn't enjoy it. You make the call for your family.
This was the first time my mom had hiked to Delicate Arch. The hike was strenuous for her – and me too – but she said that no photo can compare to walking around the bend and seeing the iconic arch in person. I agree completely.
The Windows
The Delicate Arch hike took most of our time, so we made just one more stop before calling it a day. We drove to the Windows area and stopped at Double Arch. Did you see Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade? These arches are one of the locations at the beginning of the film. You can see these arches clearly form the parking area and it's a short walk. Climbing around underneath is an irresistible adventure for kids – and many adults too!
Sand Dune Arch
Another short hike that is great for kids is the Sand Dune Arch hike. It is a third mile one way and is all flat on fine orange sand. The last time we did this hike, we brought sand toys and let the kids dig deep holes in the sand alongside the trail. It's a fun place to stop and play!
Arches is great for everyone, whether you just want to spend an hour driving through or spend a full day or more exploring the remote corners of the wilderness on foot. We are always looking forward to our next trip to Arches National Park.
Related: Tips for Visiting Canyonlands' Island in the Sky
Landscape Arch
Landscape Arch is the largest arch in the world, and families can see it from a relatively flat and short trail. Drive to the end of the main road in Arches National Park to the Devil's Garden trail head. The parking lot is large, but will fill on busy days.
You can choose to continue on the Devil's Garden Trail to Double O Arch, or return to the parking lot. The trail becomes much more difficult after Landscape Arch.
Good to Know
Where: Just outside of Moab, Utah on Highway 191
When: Year-round. Summers are usually very hot. Visit in spring or fall for the best weather. We love visiting in winter! It's often cool but sunny, with few crowds and low prices.
How Much: $30 per vehicle for 7 days
How Long: A few hours to a few days. You can do most or all of these activities on the same day.
Amenities: visitor center, gift shop, bathrooms (mostly primitive), picnic areas, camping
Website: www.nps.gov/arch
How else can we help?
Need a hotel recommendation? We usually stay at Aarchway Inn, but there are lots of good options in Moab. Click the button to check rates and read reviews at TripAdvisor.com.
Andi at The Particular Traveler
LOVE Arches National Park! Delicate Arch is one of my favorite hikes, too. For those who aren’t ready to do the full hike, there is another “back way” to see the arch that isn’t too difficult. You won’t get as close, but it’s still spectacular. Nice photos!
Allison
Yep, it’s true. There is a Delicate Arch viewpoint just a short drive from the trailhead. It is well marked and easy to find. Thanks, Andi!
Cathy Sweeney
Arches National Park is a fond memory for me having gone there as a kid with my family. Great that you’re taking your kids there now. Wonderful photos.