Arches National Park Itinerary
The Arches National Park is considered part of the Canyon Country of Moab, Utah. Carved and shaped by millions of years of weather and erosion, this National Park was officially established in 1971.
With so much beauty to see, the arches are definitely worth more than one trip, however, if one trip is all you have, then here is an example itinerary for a long weekend exploring the Arches National Park. I put this itinerary together to make sure you are getting the most out of your long weekend.
Thursday - Fly into Grand Junction, Colorado, and drive to Moab, Utah
Friday - Arches National Park Scenic Drive
Saturday - Delicate Arch Hike
Sunday - Drive back to Grand Junction, Colorado, and fly home
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What you need to know about flying into Moab, Utah.
The best, and most affordable option, is going to be flying into Grand Junction, Colorado. There is a tiny, tiny airport in Moab, but it's very limited on which days you can fly in and out of and it's primarily for bush planes. It also costs more to fly in and out of this airport due to its availability.
The drive from Grand Junction, Colorado to Moab, Utah is 2 hours.
Part of this drive has a scenic route along the river which is STUNNING! I highly recommend that you take this option and the best part . . . it doesn't tack on any extra drive time! It will take the same amount of time to get to Moab whether you take the scenic route or not.
If you are opting not to stay in the campground within the park, Devils Garden, here are some of my favorite places to stay while in Moab!
Air Bnb's
Premium Single Bungalow @ Moab Springs Ranch
For more information on Devil's Campground, visit my post on the Arches National Park.
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Arches Scenic Drive
If you are staying in the campground located within the park, then you are going to start this route backward from the campground, otherwise, you will start at the beginning which is the entrance to the park.
I highly recommend taking all day to drive and explore this route. There are TONS of pull-offs and I recommend hitting every single one of them. Some of my favorite pull-offs are The Windows Section and the Garden of Eden.
Be sure to pack a lunch and some snacks!
Delicate Arch Hike
This hike is the most popular, and the most photographed. When you google Arches National Park, the image that is associated with this amazing national park is that of the Delicate Arch.
This trail is 3 miles roundtrip, gaining 500 feet in elevation. Be sure to bring hiking shoes that have great grips! You are hiking on Slickrock which is so smooth, it's associated with the back of a whale. Also, a windbreaker. Depending on what time of year you go, the winds get insane at the top.
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Restaurant Recommendations
If you choose to forego camping, or just simply want to try some local cuisine, here are some of my favorite places to grab some breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Doughbird - Great for delicious homemade doughnuts and coffee. Located in downtown Moab.
Milt's Stop & Eat - Try the loaded Cowboy Burger and basket of onion rings topped with a classic chocolate milkshake. Located at 356 S Mill Creek Drive, Moab.
Antica Forma - When traveling, we always have to try the local pizza! The hubby is crazy for pizza. Be sure to try the wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas that are legendary in this quaint little town. Located at 267 N Main Street, Moab.