How to Spend One Day in Arches National Park [Podcast Ep. #31]

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If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a map, wondering how to squeeze one of Utah’s most iconic national parks into just a single day, you’re not alone.

As a full-time RVer and professional adventurer, I know the struggle.

You’re cruising down Highway 191, passing through Moab, and thinking, Can I really experience Arches in just one day? The answer? Yes—but only with a solid game plan.

With over 2,000 natural stone arches, winding red rock trails, and some of the most jaw-dropping landscapes in the Southwest, Arches National Park is a bucket list stop for anyone traveling through Utah.

But without the right itinerary, it’s easy to waste precious time driving in circles, stuck in line at trailheads, or missing out on the park’s must-see spots.

Whether you’re rolling in with a big rig, towing a trailer, or just stopping for the day, I’ll help you navigate parking challenges, trail choices, and time-saving tips so you can leave feeling like you truly experienced Arches—not just drove through it.

Let’s dive in and make your one day in Arches unforgettable! 🚐🏜️🔥

One Day in Arches National Park, How to Spend One Day in Arches National Park [Podcast Ep. #31]

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Important Parts in the Show

0:54 – Why just one day?
1:32 – I wasn’t meant to go to Arches
2:54 – Sunrise
6:14 – Mid Day
12:13 – Devils Garden
16:48 – Sunset
19:08 – Stargazing
22:47 – Summarizing my perfect day in Arches National Park

Key Takeaways

Arches National Park is doable in one day, but you have to prioritize your time.
By figuring out what you want to see and what is important to you, it will be less stressful and more enjoyable.
Are you driving through? Looking for an adventurous hike? Are you a photographer? Figure this out before you arrive to Arches NP.

Everything You need to Know About One Day In Arches national Park (Episode 31)

Hey, adventurers! Welcome back to Tick It Before You Kick It, the podcast that’s all about helping you check off your adventure bucket list before, well… you know💀

I’m Alexandra, your guide to all things epic, and today, we’re talking about Arches National Park—but with a twist.

You’ve only got one day to experience this jaw-dropping, Mars-like landscape.

Can it be done? Absolutely. Will it be unforgettable? Oh, you bet your sweet hiking boots it will be.

I’ve spent a lot of time—seriously, so much time—creating guides to Arches National Park because I love it, and I think it’s an incredible adventure destination.

I want you to check it off your bucket list, too, and I’m here to help.

So grab your day pack, slap on some SPF, and let’s dive into the ultimate one-day itinerary for Arches National Park.

Why One Day?

I’ve noticed that many people driving through the Moab, Canyonlands, and Arches National Park area want to know what they can see in just one day.

So today, we’re talking about the best stops for a quick trip, plus some adventure ideas if you have more time.

The Accidental Visit

Funny story—I wasn’t even supposed to go to Arches National Park.

We were headed to Yosemite, looking for an easier route, and ended up passing through Moab.

I had always heard about Arches, and I figured, “Oh, I bet they have… arches?” But I wasn’t prepared for just how incredible it would be.

What started as a quick detour turned into a week-long adventure through Moab, Canyonlands, and Arches.

Typically, I like to spend as much time as possible in national parks to bring you the most information, but let’s try to knock it out in a day!

Arches, fortunately, is a smaller park compared to, say, Yosemite, so it is possible to experience it in a day—but you’ll need to prioritize.

Sunrise at Arches

If you take one thing from this podcast, let it be this: sunrise in Arches is magical.

Delicate Arch

Most guides will tell you to start with Delicate Arch. And while it is iconic (it’s even on Utah’s license plates!), it’s also insanely crowded.

Parking is a nightmare, and if you go during the day, you’ll be shoulder to shoulder with other hikers.

If you can’t do it at sunrise, I’m going to say something controversial… maybe skip it.

Mesa Arch in Canyonlands

If you’re open to an alternative, consider Mesa Arch in Canyonlands. It’s technically not in Arches National Park, but it’s an easy half-mile hike and great for photographs.

When the sun rises, it creates this glowing portal of pure magic. If you want the best experience with fewer crowds, this is your spot.

Devils Garden

Another option is Devil’s Garden at sunrise, which was personally my favorite. Partition Arch, in particular, blew me away—it perfectly frames the entire valley of Arches National Park, and best of all? Little to no crowds (depending on the time of year).

Midday Adventures

For those just driving through, I highly recommend an audio tour. (Here’s the link if you are interested)

It was way cheaper than a guided tour, and every time I stopped at a landmark, I’d get a fascinating story—whether it was about geology, the people who lived here, or the park’s history.

Plus, it helped me plan my time better.

Quick Stops You Can’t Miss:

Balanced Rock – This is a must-see, and it’s an easy walk. Fun fact: a ranger once told me that someone thought the rock was cemented in place and tried to push it over. (Why?)
The Windows & Double Arch Section – If you’re short on time, this area is your best bang-for-your-buck. The hikes are short, but the views are epic.
- The North Window perfectly frames Turret Arch—a photographer’s dream shot.
- Double Arch (controversial opinion) is better than Delicate Arch. It’s massive, unique, and so much fun to explore.
Sand Dune Arch – A hidden gem, especially great for families. It’s like a giant sandbox tucked between towering canyon walls.
Skyline Arch – Poorly marked but worth it. It felt like a secret spot when I visited.
Fiery Furnace Viewpoint – You need a permit to hike it, but even the viewpoint is stunning.

Full Adventurer’s Guide To Arches national Park

The full guide to Arches NP with adventurers in mind!

Learn More

Afternoon: Devil’s Garden

For my fellow adventurers who love hiking, Devil’s Garden is the hike to do. It’s an 8-mile loop that takes you past seven arches.

Here are the highlights👇

Landscape Arch – One of the longest natural arches in the world.
Partition Arch – My personal favorite, especially during sunrise!
Double O Arch – Different from Double Arch, but equally stunning.
Primitive Trail – If you love adventure, do this. But be warned—it’s easy to get lost. (I did, and it led me to write a whole guide on hiking mistakes.)

If you want to cut it short, just go to Landscape Arch and turn around.

Sunset

For sunset, Courthouse Towers, and Park Avenue are unbeatable. The rock formations make you feel like you’re walking through a stone city, and the lighting at golden hour is chef’s kiss.

Of course, this isn’t the only epic sunset spot in Arches.

It is, unfortunately, a popular time to visit, especially in the summer when the heat is settling down. I would allow extra time for whatever you decide to do.

Read More – Best Sunset Spots in Arches National Park

Stargazing

But the magic doesn’t end at sunset. Arches is a designated Dark Sky Park, meaning the stargazing here is next level.

Delicate Arch at night – Seeing the Milky Way through the arch is pure magic.
Panorama Point – Another amazing stargazing spot.
Moonlit Hikes – If you’re lucky, you might catch a ranger-led full moon hike. I did one in Canyonlands, and it was unforgettable.
Self Guided Tour – If you want a self-paced audio guide, this would be perfect for you.

If you want a hike, tour, and photography session, I would highly consider booking this tour so that you don’t miss out on the epic stars!

Final Tips

To wrap it up, here’s how to structure your one-day itinerary:

Pick your sunrise spot – Delicate Arch (only if you go early), Mesa Arch (less crowded), or Devil’s Garden.
Drive the scenic road – Stop at Balanced Rock, Windows, and Double Arch.
Hike if you can – Devil’s Garden is the hike for adventurers. Do the full loop if you are feeling brave and have time. If not, just go to Landscape Arch.
Catch sunset – Courthouse Towers or Park Avenue.
Stay for the stars – Either at Delicate Arch or Panorama Point.

That was a lot of info, but I hope it helps you make the most of your day at Arches.

Have you been? Did I miss your favorite spot? Let me know! And if you loved this episode, subscribe, share, and leave a review—it helps our adventure-loving community grow.

Until next time, keep chasing those bucket list dreams and Tick It Before You Kick It!

Show Resources For One Day in Arches National park

Arches National Park Guides Mentioned

Looking to Hike? 👉 Best Hikes in Arches NP
Are you a photographer? 👉 Arches Photo Guide
Confused about which arch is which? 👉 Notable Arches Ranked
Wanting to explore outside of Arches? 👉 Adventurous Tours in Moab
In Arches for sunrise? 👉 Find the best spots
In Arches for sunset? 👉 Find the best spots
Wanting to hike Devils Garden? 👉 Don’t make these mistakes
Full Arches National Park Guide? 👉 Let’s start bucketlisting

How to Get to Arches National Park

By Car

From Moab, UT: Drive 5 miles north on US-191. Turn right at the entrance sign for Arches National Park.
From Salt Lake City, UT: Take I-15 S → Exit Route 6 E toward Price → Merge onto I-70 E → Exit US-191 S to Moab. The park entrance is 5 miles before Moab. (~3.5-4 hr drive)
From Grand Junction, CO: Take I-70 W → Exit US-191 S to Moab. (~1.5-2 hr drive)