Arches National Park has been a place I’d enjoyed photos of for years. Struck by its beauty during all seasons, I’ve always hoped to visit. On my spring Wild West sister adventure this was our highlight stop, and the first of four national parks we had slated for the six day trip.

EXPERIENCE

My sister, Cate, was my copilot for this Western American road trip. It was our first time traveling together and proved to be a great bonding, arguing and growing opportunity for us both– the hallmark of any great adventure. We arrived in Denver and headed onto Moab straight away. We arrived in Moab late and crashed for the evening to get an early start for Arches in the morning. The drive into the park is pretty spectacular in and of itself. Being from the midwest, this western red rock scenery always takes my breath away. The drive in is studded with massive natural formations of red rocks strewn across open grassy pastel plains. 

While exploring the park, we enjoyed hiking Delicate Arch very much. This is a somewhat strenuous hike in the hot sun, and was pretty crowded with tourists which is not my favorite. I’d suggest not letting this put you off if at all possible, the destination is worth it. We paused here for a snack and photographs then headed back out visiting some of the rock drawings and plains dwellings along the way. We also set aside several hours for the ranger guided Fiery Furnace Tour. This was great even though guided tours are not usually my thing. Our ranger was very knowledgable and this proved a great way to see a part of the park that would otherwise not have been visitable. Here we got to scramble, and squeeze between tight caverns in the fingers of the formations. These hikes were the two highlights for us within the park.

Whitewater rafting the Colorado River is another  fun activity nearby. While this was not the most eventful rafting trip I have been on, it was lovely and gave us a chance to see a different part of the landscape. The country along the river is beautiful and we had the chance to see some amazing birds and plant life. This part of the country is just so scenic with the red rocks and open expanses, that even an uneventful day on the river was worth it. 

STAY

While visiting Arches, you stay in Moab. It is the only nearby town, and a pretty great one. While here we crashed in a cheap motel the first night, these are not worth differentiating between, but all suffice as a place to stay. The second evening, after playing in the park we headed to what is perhaps the coolest Airbnb location I have ever come upon– Moab Under Canvas. Staying in a covered canvas tent in the middle of the desert has never felt more elegant. Check this place our for a special evening. 

EAT

Moab is home to lots of tourist friendly local restaurants. Favorites included the Moab Brewery and vegetarian joint in town. We also hit the grocery store frequently and packed meals and snacks to take into the park, which offers no food or drinks for sale.