Arches itinerary

Here is how to spend one to two days in Arches, built from the hikes and activities the National Park Service lists and the time it says each takes. Short on time? Do Day 1. Times are for the activity itself; add time for driving, parking and shuttles between stops, and swap anything that is closed or out of season.

Day 1

About 3 hours of listed activity time, plus stops with no listed time.

Start at Arches Visitor Center for maps, current trail conditions and ranger advice.

Morning

• Stargazing Events in Southeast Utah (1 to 3 hours). Rangers occasionally lead stargazing programs and events at parks throughout southeast Utah. (best in summer)

Afternoon

• Canyoneering at Arches (time not listed). Arches has no real "slot canyons" but does afford some unique on-rope opportunities. (permit or reservation needed)
• Explore the Fiery Furnace (time not listed). Entry to the Fiery Furnace is managed by permits and ranger-led tours to ensure the experience of solitude and wilderness. (permit or reservation needed)
• Stargaze at Panorama Point (15 to 120 minutes). Arches National Park and the surrounding Colorado Plateau offer some of the darkest night skies remaining in the United States. (dogs OK)

Day 2

About 3.5 hours of listed activity time, plus stops with no listed time.

Morning

• Enjoy Arches from the Road (2 to 4 hours). If you pay close attention, you can see close to two dozen arches from the comfort of your car.

Afternoon

• Start at Arches Visitor Center (15 to 60 minutes). Stop at the visitor center to plan your visit, fill your water bottle, learn about the park, and pick up a souvenir.
• Hiking at Arches (time not listed). Arches contains a variety of hiking trails, from easy/moderate to long and strenuous.

Make it work

• When to go: March to May and October. See the best time to visit.
• Where to stay: 1 campground in the park; see camping and lodging.
• Before you go: check today’s alerts and read know before you go. More ideas: all things to do.

Sources

• National Park Service: things to do in Arches National Park (Data API, public domain)

Last checked 1 November 2026.