In Moab, Utah you will find Arches National Park. Arches are not the only geological formations you will see. Keep an eye out for fins, potholes, plateaus, and cliffs. The Arches became a national park in 1971 by President Nixon. Everything you see is a giant salt bed that is from around 300 million years ago. Throughout the park, there is a Cryptobiotic crust that is made of living organisms like algae and fungi. Without this crust, animals, plants, and humans would not survive in the desert.

Arches Scenic Drive

This 22-mile road connects all of Arches National Park. The drive offers breathtaking views. The whole drive will take 4 to 5 hours. If you are pinched on time, choose 5 to 8 viewpoints along the road.

La Sal Mountains Viewpoint

The viewpoint has a parking lot with a sidewalk to the viewpoint. The viewpoint has views of features inside and outside of the National Park. Bring a snack and enjoy the sunset here! If you are visiting during the winter months, shoes with traction are advised.

Balanced Rock

Balanced Rock is one of the most popular features within Arches National Park. The rock is not balancing but is attached to the base. The erosion of the feature is what makes it look like it is balancing. The rock won’t look like this forever. As erosion continues, the rock will eventually fall. This area is also popular for stargazing.

Delicate Arch

Delicate Arch is one of Arches National Park’s most famous features. It is the largest arch in the park standing 52 feet tall. If you want to see the arch up close, you will have to hike 3 miles. Because of the arch’s popularity, it is recommended to arrive early.

Fiery Furnace

The Fiery Furnace is named after the color it turns during sunsets and sunrises. This hike is challenging and not for the faint of heart. There are no markers but guided tours are available to book. If you do not book a guided tour, you will need to purchase a permit and watch an orientation video to do the hike.

Devils Garden and Landscape Arch

In the Devils Garden is an easy hike to Landscape Arch. Beyond the arch, the hike gets substantially more difficult. The Landscape Arch is 300 feet long and is the longest arch in North America! The thinnest part of the arch is 6 feet long and makes us wonder how much longer it will be standing.

The Windows, Turret Arch, and Double Arch

The Windows and Turret Arch is a 1.2-mile hike. This hike is appropriate for all levels making it a popular attraction. Because of the high volume of traffic, we recommend getting to the parking lot early and visiting during the week.

Garden of Eden

There is no specified hiking area in the Garden of Eden so you can explore on your terms. You can find Serpentine Arch and Owl Rock within the Garden of Eden. If you are into rock climbing, test your skills on Owl Rock!