Here are the 10 best hikes in Arches National Park, on which you can discover breathtaking rock formations and stunning red rock landscapes. From the iconic Delicate Arch to the labyrinthine Fiery Furnace, these trails offer unforgettable views and adventures in nature's playground. Lace up your boots grab your water bottle - prepare yourself to be captivated by the miraculous beauty of Arches National Park.
1. Devil’s Garden Primitive Loop
Image from Flickr by Alexander Hatley
- Distance: 7.8 miles
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Time: 4-6 hours
- Parking: Devil’s Garden parking lot
The Devil's Garden Primitive Loop is a challenging 7.8-mile hike through breathtaking backcountry, featuring iconic arches like Landscape Arch and Navajo Arch - along with an absolute plethora of other formations like fins and spires. Expect slickrock sections and narrow ledges, making it a favorite among experienced hikers seeking an immersive adventure among the rocks.
2. Landscape Arch Hike
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- Distance: 1.8 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- Time: 1-2 hours
- Parking: Devil's Garden Trailhead
A relatively easy hike leads you to the famous Landscape Arch, one of the longest natural arches in the world. Witness its delicate and fragile beauty and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
3. Delicate Arch Hike
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- Distance: 3 miles
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Time: 2-3 hours
- Parking: Wolfe Ranch Parking Lot
This iconic hike leads you to the stunning Delicate Arch, the symbol of Utah. The trail includes steep sections and exposed slickrock, but the reward of witnessing the arch against the backdrop of the desert landscape is worth the effort. Be advised: because of the popularity of the hike, it may be too crowded for your taste, and parking might be difficult. The hike is still, however, well worth it.
RELATED: Delicate Arch Hiking Guide
4. Fiery Furnace Arches
Image from Flickr by MS-R / Michael S-R
- Distance: Varies
- Difficulty: Challenging (requires permit or ranger-guided tour)
- Time: 3-4 hours
- Parking: Fiery Furnace Viewpoint
Explore a labyrinth of narrow sandstone canyons and arches on this unique hike. Due to its complexity, it is required to join a guided tour or obtain a permit to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Although difficult, this is not a linear hike. Explore around the maze-like sandstone corridors as much as you like - and see what sort of cool formations you can find!
5. Double Arch Hike
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- Distance: 0.5 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- Time: 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Parking: The Windows Section Parking Lot
This short, family-friendly hike leads to the impressive Double Arch, where two massive arches intersect. Take a moment to appreciate the grandeur of these natural formations and enjoy the shade they provide.
6. Tower Arch Trail
- Distance: 2.6 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Time: 2-3 hours
- Parking: Tower Arch Trailhead
The Tower Arch Trail is a 2.6-mile hike that leads you through scenic desert landscapes to the impressive Tower Arch, a secluded and lesser-known gem of Arches National Park. Enjoy the solitude and marvel at the stunning natural arch surrounded by the stunning red rock formations away from the crowds.
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7. Broken Arch Loop Trail
- Distance: 2.3 miles
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Time: 1-2 hours
- Parking: Sand Dune Arch Trailhead
This loop trail takes you through a sandy desert landscape to the beautiful Broken Arch (which isn’t actually broken - yet). There is a short offshoot of this trail that takes you to see Sand Dune Arch as well - two arches for the price of one! Enjoy the tranquility of the area and admire the natural beauty that surrounds you.
8. Park Avenue Trail
Image from Flickr by mtnscll
- Distance: 1.8 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- Time: 1-2 hours
- Parking: Park Avenue Trailhead
This classic hike allows you to explore the varied rock formations of Arches. Walk through a narrow canyon, resembling a city skyline (hence the name), and bask in the geological wonders around you - including but not limited to: the Courthouse Towers, The Organ, and the Tower of Babel! Sounds like a varied group, huh? This hike shows it all to you.
9. Windows Loop Trail
- Distance: 1 mile
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Time: 1-2 hours
- Parking: Windows Trailhead
This trail takes you to the North and South Windows, as well as the Turret Arch. Enjoy magnificent views and unique perspectives of these famed arches as you traverse the loop trail.
10. Balanced Rock Trail
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- Distance: 0.3 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- Time: 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Parking: Balanced Rock Trailhead
A short and accessible hike that leads you to the famous Balanced Rock. This geological wonder is a must-see, as it showcases the delicate balance of a massive boulder on a slender pedestal.
Remember to always stay on designated trails, follow park regulations, and be prepared with proper hiking gear and plenty of water - this is the desert, after all.
Map of the Best Hikes in Arches National Park
Park's House Rules
Here are The National Park Service’s ‘house rules’ for how to act when in archaeological sites like Arches. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery and create lasting memories as you explore the remarkable hikes of Arches National Park.
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.
If you don’t want to miss a thing on your visit to Arches, be sure to check out Shaka Guide's Arches National Park Tour!
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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