Ranger-curated one-day highlights itinerary for Arches National Park.
Itinerary
Ranger-curated Arches day focused on early starts, heat management, and the best light.
Delicate Arch sunrise hike
This trail hikes up 538 feet (164 m) to the most famous arch in the park, crossing open slickrock with no shade. Pass historic Wolfe Ranch and a rock markings panel, then climb steadily; follow the rock cairns and signs. Just before you get to Delicate Arch, the trail traverses a narrow rock ledge for about 200 yards (183 m). Take at least 2 quarts (2 L) of water per person. Roundtrip distance: 3 miles (4.8 km) Time: 2-3 hours
Start before sunrise to avoid heat and crowds.
Bring a headlamp and 2+ liters of water.
Windows Section + Double Arch
The tallest arch in the park at 122 ft (34 m), Double Arch is visible from The Windows parking loop. A relatively flat, gravel-surfaced path leads to the base of its two huge, arching spans. May be accessible to wheelchairs with some assistance. Roundtrip Distance: 0.6 mi (1 km) Time: 15-30 min Elevation Change: 30 ft (10 m)
Easy loop with multiple arches close to the parking area.
Short walks between arches make this a great mid-morning stop.
Balanced Rock
Balanced Rock is visible from the park road. Although parking is limited, many visitors stop to complete the short hike around the feature's base for unusual and up-close perspectives. This loop trail is partly paved and may be accessible to wheelchairs. Climbing on Balanced Rock is prohibited. Roundtrip Distance: 0.3 mi (0.4 km) Time: 15-30 min Elevation Change: 35 ft (11 m)
Quick stop along the main park road.
Walk the short loop for different angles.
Arches Visitor Center + picnic
Stop at the visitor center to plan your visit, fill your water bottle, learn about the park, and pick up a souvenir.
Refuel and refill water before the afternoon hike.
Use shaded picnic tables when available.
Devils Garden Trail
This trailhead offers a range of hikes, from short to strenuous. Beyond Landscape Arch (listed above), the trail climbs sandstone slabs. Footing is rocky, with narrow ledges, exposure to heights, rock scrambling, and few trail markers. Avoid when rock is wet or snowy. Bring at least 3 quarts (3 L) of water per person. Roundtrip just to Double O Arch: 4.0 miles (6.4 km), 2-3 hours. Whole Trail: 7.9 miles (12.7 km), 3-5 hours
Hike to Landscape Arch and beyond for fewer crowds.
Turn around if heat builds; the trail is exposed.
Park Avenue Viewpoint sunset
A paved sidewalk (wheelchair accessible) leads to a viewpoint down a corridor of towering rock walls and spires. Descend stairs to walk the trail among massive monoliths toward Courthouse Towers Viewpoint. For a roundtrip hike, return along the trail rather than walking along the road. Roundtrip Distance: 1.8 mi (3.2 km) Time: 1 hour Elevation Change: 322 ft (98 m)
Short walk for a wide canyon view.
Arrive early for golden light on the walls.
Creates a copy you can customize
1
Day
6
Stops
moderate
Difficulty
Tags