Arches National Park

Arches protects the densest collection of natural stone arches in the world, over two thousand of them, sculpted from red sandstone in the high desert near Moab. Its emblem, Delicate Arch, a free-standing curve of stone framing the snow-capped mountains beyond, is one of the most recognisable natural sights in America.

Background

The arches formed mainly because of a salt bed beneath the park, left in the Paradox Basin some 300 million years ago when a sea that had flowed into the region evaporated. Above it lie the Navajo Sandstone, laid down in desert conditions about 200 million years ago, and the Entrada Sandstone of about 140 million years ago, while more than 5,000 feet of younger rock has since mostly worn away. The park covers 310.31 square kilometres, from 4085 feet at the visitor center to 5653 feet at Elephant Butte, and gets less than 10 inches of rain a year. It became a national monument on April 12, 1929 and a national park on November 12, 1971.

Source: Wikipedia, "Arches National Park"

The landscape

• Delicate Arch - the free-standing arch reached by a moderate hike, glorious at sunset.
• The Windows and Double Arch - the great easy-to-reach arches near the road.
• Landscape Arch - one of the longest natural spans in the world.
• Balanced Rock - the huge boulder poised on a slender pedestal.

When to go

Spring and autumn for mild weather; summer is fiercely hot, and midday sun is dangerous on exposed trails. Delicate Arch is finest at sunset; the desert light is best early and late.

Good to know

It is extremely popular, so peak season brings timed-entry reservations and full car parks, so plan ahead. Summer heat is severe and shade is scarce, so hike early with plenty of water. Delicate Arch draws a crowd at sunset, so go early or accept company.

Nearby

Moab is the adventure-town base; Canyonlands National Park and the Colorado River are alongside.

Key facts