Top 5 Arches National Park Hikes for Your Bucket List
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If you’re an adventurer at heart, Arches National Park hikes are out of this world!
Known for its otherworldly landscapes and over 2,000 natural stone arches, this park offers hiking opportunities that range from casual strolls to challenging treks.
But if you’re short on time, planning is essential to make the most of your visit.
As someone who lives full-time in an RV and has hiked hundreds of miles across the U.S., including several iconic bucket-list trails, I’m here to simplify your game plan.
Arches National Park was one of my favorite hiking destinations, and it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to understand why!
Here are the top 5 hikes in Arches National Park—each one guaranteed to leave you in awe…and be convinced that you are secretly on Mars.
Key Takeaways
- Arches National Park is an incredible hiking destintation, offering trails for all skill levels.
- The top 5 hikes in Arches National Parks are: Delicate Arch Trail, Devil’s Garden, The Windows Loop + Double Arch, Balanced Rock, and the Sand Dune Arch Loop
Arches National Park Hikes Overview
Trail Name | Difficulty | Estimated Time |
Delicate Arch | Moderate | 2-3 hours |
Devil’s Garden | Challenging | 3-5 hours |
Windows Loop | Easy | 1 hour |
Double Arch | Easy | 30 minutes |
Balanced Rock | Easy | 15-30 minutes |
Sand Dune & Broken Arch | Moderate | 15-75 minutes |
1. The Most Iconic: Delicate Arch Trail
Why It’s Iconic
Delicate Arch is not just a symbol of Arches National Park—it’s a symbol of Utah itself. It’s actually on their license plates!
This hike is a rite of passage for adventurers and offers unparalleled views of this stunning arch perched high above the desert floor.
Delicate Arch Hike Details
Type | Out & Back |
Trail Conditions | Incline with open slickrock sections |
Total Length | 3.2 miles (4.8 km) |
Elevation Gain | 538 feet (164 m) |
Difficulty | Moderate |
Estimated Time | 2-3 hours |
Recommended for Families? | This is a moderately difficult hike. I would be wary if you have small children who are not used to hiking longer distances. |
Highlights of Delicate Arch Trail
- Historic Wolfe Ranch and nearby Ute petroglyphs.
- Jaw-dropping reveal of Delicate Arch at the end of the trail.
Tips for Hiking to Delicate Arch
- Visit at sunrise or sunset for fewer crowds and breathtaking lighting.
- Bring plenty of water and wear sturdy shoes for the slickrock sections.
2. The Most Adventurous: Devil’s Garden Trail + The Primitive Trail
Why It’s a Must-Do for Adventurers
This is the park’s longest and most adventurous trail, featuring a series of awe-inspiring arches and stunning desert scenery.
I know that this may be slightly controversial…but the entire Devil’s Garden and Primitive Loop was my favorite hike in the park!
It was adventurous, I got lost, fell in water, and saw many arches without the crowds. It is an adventure bucket list hike!
Devil’s Garden Hiking Details
Type | Loop |
Trail Conditions | Rocky, narrow ledges, heights, rock scrambling, few trail markers |
Total Length | 7.9 miles (12.7 km) for full loop |
Elevation Gain | 1,085 ft (331 m) |
Difficulty | Challenging |
Estimated Time | 3-5 hours |
Recommended for Families? | Honestly, I wouldn’t. With that being said, I did run into a dad carrying a young child on his back. Me? I would have tripped, put that kid in the water, or fallen down a rock. But you do you… |
You Can Always turn Back…
It is important to note that you can embark on the Devil’s Garden Trail and turn back.
For example, it is very popular to just go to the Landscape Arch (1.8 mi, 2.9 km) or Double O (4 mi, 6.4 km) and then turn around.
However, once you start on the Primitive Trail (after Double O), the hiking is even more challenging. The crowds thin dramatically and the trail is very difficult to follow. This was my favorite part!
Highlights of Devil’s Garden
- Landscape Arch, the park’s longest arch.
- Double O Arch and the rugged Primitive Loop for those seeking adventure.
Tips for Hiking Devil’s Garden
- Start early to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots and carry plenty of water and snacks.
- Grab or download a map or bring a GPS.
- Make sure you are okay with heights and steep drop offs.
- During parts of a year, there is a section where you might even have to swim!
Which Way Around the Loop?
If you like scrambling uphill, then take the Primative loop around the back. There is a sign towards the right near the Pine Tree and Tunnel Arch.
If you like “booty scooting”, head to Landscape Arch and Double O and do the loop that way. I like going downhill more, so I took this path.
If you are wondering what this trail looks like, I did an adventure vlog👇
3. If you Only Have Time For One Area: The Windows Loop and Turret Arch + The Double Arch
Why It’s Great If You Only Have Time for One Hike
This easy trail offers massive arches with minimal effort, making it perfect for families and photographers.
I know what you might be thinking – the Windows loop and the Double Arch are two separate hikes. And you would be correct.
Fortunately, they both are easy, family friendly, and offer incredible views…and you can park in the same parking lot. Seriously – they are right across from each other.
Hence, I am putting them in the same space because if you have managed to get a parking spot, you might as well cross both of them off of the list!
The Windows Loop + Turret Arch
Type | Loop |
Trail Conditions | Gentle climb on hard-packed trail. |
Total Length | 1.2 miles (1.9 km) |
Elevation Gain | 99 ft (30 m) |
Difficulty | Easy |
Estimated Time | 30-60 minutes |
Recommended for Families? | Absolutely! Although it isn’t the shortest hike in Arches National Park, it is very easy and would be a great introduction into hiking. |
Highlights of the Window Trail
- North and South Windows—two colossal arches side by side.
- Turret Arch with its unique, castle-like shape.
Tips for Hiking to The Windows
- Combine this hike with nearby Double Arch for a short but rewarding adventure.
- Visit early in the morning to beat the crowds and the heat.
Double Arch Trail
Type | Out & Back |
Trail Conditions | Relatively flat, gravel surface |
Total Length | 0.6 miles (1 km) |
Elevation Gain | 95 ft (29 m) |
Difficulty | Easy |
Estimated Time | 15-30 minutes |
Recommended for Families? | Yes! It is short, easy, and offers access to an epic and unique set of arches. |
Highlights of Double Arch
- Towering arches that you can walk beneath. It is the tallest in the park at 122 ft (34 m).
- Great views of nearby rock formations.
- This was arguably my favorite arch in Arches National Park.
Tips For Hiking Double Arch
- Early mornings offer soft lighting for photography and fewer visitors.
- Pair this with the Windows Loop to maximize your time.
4. The Easiest: Balanced Rock Trail
Why It’s Worth Your Time
Even though it isn’t an arch, Balanced Rock is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the park.
It seems to defy the law of physics and logic as you witness this precariously placed rock.
I was talking to a ranger and he said that this one guest was convinced that the tiny ring of white was actually cement and he tried to go and push it over.
Obviously, don’t do that…but it did make me giggle.
Balanced Rock Hike Details
Type | Loop |
Trail Conditions | Partially paved |
Total Length | 0.3 miles (0.4 km) |
Elevation Gain | 35 ft (11 m) |
Difficulty | Easy |
Estimated Time | 15-30 minutes |
Recommended for Families? | Yes! It is short, easy, and offers access to an epic and unique set of arches. |
Highlights of Balanced Rock
- Close-up views of the massive balanced rock formation.
- I would consider this a wonderful stroll rather than a grueling hike. This is an excellent photography spot and great for adventurers with limited mobility.
Tips for Visiting Balanced Rock
- Ideal for a quick stop or to stretch your legs.
- Keep in eye on the sky! I got some epic photography pictures with balanced rock.
5. The Most Unique: Sand Dune Arch + Broken Arch
Why It’s Fun
The Sand Dune Arch is a kid-friendly hike with sandy trails and playful exploration.
Out of all of the hikes, I found it to be the most unique! It is like a slot canyon filled with sand and an arch!
Not gonna lie, I felt like I was in an Indiana Jones movie!
Sand Dune Arch Hike Details
There are two ways that you can do this. You can go straight to the Sand Dune Arch and then turn around. Or, you can take the loop to Broken Arch.
Type | Sand Dune Arch – Out & Back With Broken Arch – Loop |
Trail Conditions | Well marked trail into sand. Grassland to Broken Arch. |
Total Length | Sand Dune Arch – 0.4 miles (0.6 km) With Broken Arch – 2.8 miles (4.5 km) |
Elevation Gain | Sand Dune Arch – 124 ft (38 m) With Broken Arch – 321 ft (98 m) |
Difficulty | Easy to Moderate |
Estimated Time | 15-30 minutes |
Recommended for Families? | When I did my Arches National Park Audio Guide, this hike was mentioned as a family favorite. Why? It’s easy, flat, and basically a giant sandbox. The kids will go nuts! |
Highlights of the Sand Dune and Broken Arch
- Sand Dune Arch is unique, easy to get to, and shaded.
- There is a lot to look at and do besides the arch.
- The Broken Arch is worth the effort and very scenic.
Tips for Sand Dune and Broken Arch
- Great for families and a good midday hike to escape the heat, since it is shaded by the sandstone walls.
- Give some extra time to hang out and play in the Sand Dune area.
Arches National Park Hikes: Honorable Mentions
The Fiery Furnace
The Fiery Furnace is a labyrinth of narrow sandstone canyons and towering rock fins, offering a unique and challenging experience. Permit required.
Park Avenue Trail
An amazing hike offering views of towering sandstone that resembles a city skyline.
Skyline Arch Trail
An easy, but unmarked trail that get’s you to a great view point of the Skyline Arch.
Tower Arch Trail
Perfect for adventurers who want to avoid the crowds. This involves driving 8 miles on unpaved roads, which wash out quickly in rainstorms.
Courthouse Wash Rock Art Trail
Combine hiking with history by viewing ancient petroglyphs.
Best Times to Visit Arches National Park
- Spring and Fall: The most popular times due to mild temperatures, perfect for hiking.
- Summer: Expect high heat, so plan hikes for early morning or late evening. This would be my least favorite time to hike Arches National Park.
- Winter: Quiet and serene, but be prepared for cooler temperatures and potential snow.
Pro Tip: Sunrise and sunset hikes offer cooler conditions and magical lighting for photos.
Be aware that depending on the time of year, there might be a time-entry reservation system. You can check out my full Arches National Park Guide for more information.
Trail Etiquette and Safety Tips
Stay on the Trail & Protect The Ecosystem
Protect the fragile desert ecosystem by avoiding off-trail hiking. You might laugh, but it’s also very easy to get lost.
Biological Soil Crust & Ephemeral Pools
Arches National Park is home to a wide variety of organisms that are essential for the ecosystem.
Any distruption to these organisms could have terrible consequences and take years to come back.
Biological soil crust is found throughout the park. Protect it by staying on the trail and keep vehicles in designated area.
Ephemeral Pools host organisms that depend on the shallow water to survive. Try to not disturb these pools to protect them (don’t even step in the dry ones).
Don’t Get Lost
Here is another reason to stay on the trail – to not get lost. I have been hiking a lot of places, and this is hands down the most confusing and poorly mark trail systems I have seen.
True, this adds to the adventure, but you need to be prepared and stay on the tail as much as you can.
Don’t Step on the ARches
Stepping on the arches in Arches National Park is against park regulations because it accelerates their natural erosion and damages the fragile sandstone.
These iconic formations have taken millions of years to form, and even small actions, like walking on them, can cause cracks or weaken their structure.
Don’t be that person. Please.
Yield to Others
Uphill hikers have the right of way.
Hydrate and Pace Yourself
Always carry enough water and take breaks as needed.
Arches National Park has a tendency to get really hot. There were warning signs up the wazoo at every park explaining this.
Stay hydrates, avoid midday hikes, and go at your own pace.
Respect Wildlife
Observe from a distance and never feed animals.
Although they like to hide themselves, they are there!
You can learn about all the animals in Arches National Park here.
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Want more information on Arches National Park? Check out the full adventurer’s guide!
How to Avoid Crowds
It is no surprise that crowds can be an issue at Arches National Park. It is relatively small and extremely popular.
- Start hikes early, ideally at sunrise, to beat the rush.
- Visit during off-peak months, such as late fall or winter.
- Explore lesser-known trails or take ranger-led tours for a quieter experience.
There are some hikes, such as Devil’s Garden or the Tower Arch Trail, that naturally have less people.
When I hiked the Primitive Trail in Devil’s Garden in early fall, I only saw about 4 people and was alone at most of the arches.
More iconic hikes, like Delicate Arch or the Windows Loop, fill up very fast. I would not recommend coming during summer in the middle of the day!
Packing List for Hiking Arches National Park
- Essentials: Comfortable hiking shoes, plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Navigation: Trail map, compass, or GPS.
- Safety Gear: First-aid kit, flashlight or headlamp, and a whistle.
- Optional: Lightweight trekking poles, camera for capturing stunning views, and a reusable bag for packing out trash.
- Seasonal Considerations: Layers for chilly mornings or evenings, and rain gear if there’s a chance of precipitation.
If you want more hiking gear recommendations, you can check out my full hiking gear guide or my Amazon Storefront.
Things to Keep in Mind While Hiking Arches National Park
Photography: Arches National Park is a stunning place for photography. It’s impossible to get a bad photo. Bring your phone/camera! If you are interested, read my in-depth photo guide to Arches National Park.
Poorly Marked Trails: Some trails, particularly in areas like Devil’s Garden and Fiery Furnace, are not well-marked. Bring a map or use a GPS to stay on track. Seriously, they don’t mess around.
Weather: The desert environment means hot days and cool nights. Always check the weather forecast before heading out. Avoid hiking mid-day due to the heat.
Permits: If planning to explore the Fiery Furnace, secure your permit well in advance. Consider taking a guided tour if you plan to check this off of your bucket list.
Leave No Trace: Respect the natural beauty by staying on designated trails and packing out all trash. Keep this magnificent place beautiful for generations to come!
Pets: Although pets are allowed on leashes in some areas of the park, they are not allowed on hiking trails, even in their carrier. You can read more about the pet regulations on the park website.
Final Work on the Best Arches National Park Hikes
These five hikes showcase the very best of Arches National Park, from iconic landmarks to adventurous terrains.
What I loved about Arches National Park hikes is that they are for every skill level. You want a nice stroll around some inspiring red rocks? Arches has it. You want to get lost climbing on rocks and fins? That’s cool, too.
As a solo female hiker who’s explored countless trails across the U.S., I can say with confidence that these hikes belong on every adventurer’s bucket list.
So grab your boots, hit the trail, and prepare to be amazed!
Have you tackled any of these hikes? I would love to cheer you on in all of your adventures! Share your experience with me @TheBucketListMermaid.
Read More About Arches National Park
Adventurer’s Guide to Arches National Park: Activities, Tips, and Hidden Gems
Best Arches in Arches National Park: Ranked For Your Bucket List
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