• Double O Arch

    Arches

    National Park Utah

History & Culture

Shadow on sandstone
Shadow on sandstone
Photo by Sam Wainer
 

While the sandstone landscapes may seem timeless and inhuman, there is a rich human history at Arches that spans over 10,000 years.

People
Today people visit Arches for the views and trails. Those who came before sought many other things: wealth, adventure, solitude, or a home. Learn more about a handful of characters in the human story of Arches.

Places
Rock doesn't retain the footprints of its travelers, so there aren't many places where Arches' human story is evident. Two popular spots showcase very different stories written on the land.

  • Looking for more? Looking for more?

    Our bookstore contains many titles about the cultural history of this area. Read More

Did You Know?

Pine Tree Arch

There are over 2,000 cataloged arches in Arches National Park. In order to be considered an arch, an opening must measure at least three feet (in any direction).