Plan Like a Park Ranger: Top 10 Tips for Visiting Arches

A trip to Arches can be unforgettable. Plan ahead to make the most of your visit.

NPS / Veronica Verdin

Top 10 Tips

1. Pack your Patience. Anticipate crowds and traffic. Arrive before 8am or in mid-afternoon or later, when lines are shortest.

2. Plan out the activities you want to do ahead of time.

3. Have a backup plan in case Arches is already full (temporarily restricting access) when you arrive. There are many nearby attractions in the Moab area.

4. Stay up to date on park closures and restricted access times by checking our Alerts or visiting Twitter.

5. Be ready for the desert. Pack plenty of water and salty snacks. Stay safe by avoiding strenuous activity during midday and afternoon heat.

6. Know the rules. From lighting up rocks to canyoneering, know what is and isn’t allowed at Arches before you visit.

7. Leave no trace of your visit, including not marking on rocks.

8. Leave your pets at home. The desert is a hard place for pets. Dogs and other pets are not allowed on Arches’ trails, even when carried.

9. Camping in Arches is only allowed in a designated campsite, and the campground fills months in advance. Reserve a place to stay before you travel to Moab.

10. Download and print Arches’ publications ahead of time to help plan your visit.

Visiting more than just Arches?

Tips from Parks Across the Country