Arches National Park is a haven for stunning rock formations and beautiful views, boasting a remarkable collection of arches. In this article, we'll guide you through the 10 best arches to see in Arches National Park. This is your guide to the best in the park - the unmissable stuff.
1. Delicate Arch
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- Distance: About 3 miles round-trip (4.8 km)
- Time: Approximately 2-3 hours
This arch couldn’t not be on this list. Undoubtedly the most iconic arch in the park, Delicate Arch's graceful silhouette against the desert backdrop is an unforgettable sight. Witnessing the arch at sunrise or sunset is an absolute must. You can find out how to get to Delicate Arch with our Delicate Arch Hiking Guide.
2. Landscape Arch
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- Distance: About 1.8 miles round-trip (2.9 km)
- Time: Approximately 1-2 hours
Spanning an impressive 306 feet, Landscape Arch is one of the world's longest natural arches. The arch itself is very thin in some places - making it a stunning visual of nature’s delicate balancing act. Take a leisurely 1.8-mile round trip hike down the aptly named Landscape Arch trail to witness this awe-inspiring arch.
3. Double Arch
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- Distance: About 0.5 miles round-trip (0.8 km)
- Time: Approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour
As the name suggests, Double Arch features a unique double-arched structure, with two adjacent arches sharing a pillar. This extraordinary feature should definitely be on your to-do list - especially considering that it’s the tallest formation in the park! It can be viewed from the parking lot at The Windows, so you won’t even need to hike to get to this sight.
4. Fiery Furnace
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- Fiery Furnace is a more challenging hike and requires a permit or guided tour due to its intricate rock formations and navigation difficulties.
- The duration and distance can vary depending on the specific route and conditions
Not an arch on its own, but rather a sandstone maze of fins and other rock formations that hides some arches within its labyrinthine corridors. Join a ranger-guided tour or obtain a permit for self-exploration (required to be obtained online and in advance) to discover the hidden arches and stunning rock formations for yourself.
5. North Window and South Window
Image from Flickr by Ken Lund
- Distance: 1 mile round-trip (1.6 km)
- Time: Approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour
Jointly known as “The Windows,” these massive adjacent arches offer breathtaking views and incredible photo opportunities. Take a peek through the arches to see some breathtaking views framed by the arch! These arches can be seen by hiking part of the way on Windows Trail.
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6. Turret Arch
Image from Flickr by bearclau
- Turret Arch is often visited along with North Window and South Window.
- The distance and time are included in the North Window and South Window hike.
Turret Arch, distinctly recognizable by its shape resembling a castle turret and a smaller circular opening to the side of the main arch, is yet another unique arch in the same area as the Windows. To reach this captivating formation, embark on the moderate Turret Arch Trail, an offshoot of the Windows Trail.
7. Double O Arch
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- Distance: About 4.2 miles round-trip (6.8 km)
- Time: Approximately 2-3 hours
Located in the stunning Devil's Garden area, and not to be confused with Double Arch, Double O Arch is a beautiful formation featuring two arches stacked upon each other. This arch can also be found in the Devil’s Garden area, similar to the Landscape arch.
8. Partition Arch
Image from Flickr by David Ackerman
- Distance: About 1 mile round-trip (1.6 km)
- Time: Approximately 1 hour
Tucked away from the crowds, Partition Arch rewards visitors with its secluded beauty. Also found in the Devil’s Garden area, this arch, like Turret Arch, also has a small opening adjacent to the main arch, making this an even more interesting rock formation to check out.
9. Skyline Arch
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- Distance: About 0.4 miles round-trip (0.6 km)
- Time: Approximately 30 minutes
Skyline Arch is perched up high on a platform of red rock. With its elongated shape and impressive size, Skyline Arch is definitely a unique picture to take home from your trip. Take the short walk to the arch, and take in the view!
10. Sand Dune Arch
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- Distance: About 0.3 miles round-trip (0.5 km)
- Time: Approximately 20-30 minutes
Hidden in a sandy alcove, Sand Dune Arch offers a unique experience of walking through a narrow passage before emerging into a sandy area containing the arch. This family-friendly spot is perfect for kids to explore and play.
Conclusion
Arches National Park holds many natural wonders, and these 10 arches are some of the park’s best, and show off the unique beauty of both the park and Utah as a whole.
From the famed Delicate Arch to hidden gems like Partition Arch, exploring these remarkable formations is the best way to make the most of your trip. If you really want to see all there is to see in Arches National Park, be sure to take a look at Shaka Guide’s Arches National Park tour!
We hope that we’ve given you all the information you need to make the most of your day. Your vacation is extremely important to us so if you have any questions feel free to reach out at aloha@shakaguide.com.
For more detailed information to help you plan, check out our Arches National Park Itinerary and Know Before You Go article.
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