News Release

Arches and Canyonlands Prepare for a Busy Memorial Day Weekend

Roads may be congested and parking lots at popular sites may fill early. Visitors are advised to pack extra patience, flexible plans, and plenty of water.

NPS Photo

News Release Date: May 19, 2025

Contact: SEUG Public Affairs, 435-260-0713

MOAB, Utah—As Memorial Day weekend approaches, Arches and Canyonlands national parks advise visitors to expect heavy traffic, crowded trails, and limited parking at both parks. Planning ahead is essential for a safe and enjoyable visit.

All visitors entering Arches between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. will need a timed entry reservation unless they have a camping, hiking, or special use permit, Fiery Furnace tour ticket, or are on a commercial tour. Reservations can be made online at www.Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777 up to six months in advance. Additional next-day tickets are released at 7 p.m. daily. Those without reservations may enter the park before 7 a.m. or after 4 p.m. but may experience additional crowding (especially in late afternoon). Reservations cannot be made at the Arches’ entrance. Timed entry reservations are not required at Canyonlands.

Visitors arriving at the Island in the Sky district of Canyonlands might experience up to two-hour waits to enter the park. Visitors arriving at Arches should expect long lines at park entrance booths that could last up to an hour. Parking lots and trails inside both parks may be crowded.

“Timed entry tickets have really helped alleviate congestion once you’re inside Arches,” said Southeast Utah Group Superintendent Lena Pace. “However, we expect many Memorial Day visitors to arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon, which could increase parking lot traffic and lengthen wait times at both parks."

Park rangers ask that vehicles waiting in line at the entrance keep pace with traffic and have their timed entry ticket QR code, park pass or payment, and ID ready. Credit cards are preferred. There are no toilet facilities or drinking water along park entrance roads. Please only park vehicles in designated spaces; do not park unsafely or anywhere that damages park plants or soils.

Visitors should plan for their safety by bringing water and snacks and wearing sturdy shoes and sun protection. Plan activities appropriate for the weather, drink plenty of water, and watch for signs of heat stress. Visitors are encouraged to check the parks’ websites and social media accounts for current information and road conditions prior to driving to the parks.

“Memorial Day weekend is typically our busiest weekend of the year,” said Pace. “If visitors come prepared with extra water, extra patience, and some flexibility in their plans, that can really help them have an enjoyable holiday.”