Wander With WHIT: Arches National Park | Utah

During the Covid-19 international travel lockdown, visits to US National Parks increased more than 40% around the country. We are proud to say we were included in that percentage! While we’ve always loved exploring the National Parks, getting out in nature during this time was especially welcome. Visiting a National Park can take some planning beforehand, but stepping out into some of the country’s most diverse and beautiful landscapes is well worth the effort. Here’s WHIT Travel’s guide to making the most of Arches National Park.

While every National Park is lovely in its own right, nothing quite compares to Arches in the quaint, artsy town of Moab, Utah. Located about a 12 hours drive from Los Angeles and 6.5 hours from Las Vegas, it’s a fairly easy trek for those near the West Coast. However, you can always fly into Salt Lake City airport if you’re coming from the East. You will want a car once you arrive, as many of the park’s sights are spread out from each other. Even the main town of Moab is about a 30 minute drive from some of the top stops.

STAY Our recommendations for lodging are the newly and stunningly constructed Hoodoo Curio Collection by Hilton in downtown Moab, or for something with a bit more interactive hospitality and planned activities, Sorrel River Ranch.
EAT Moab is small might mighty when it comes to dining options. We enjoyed Doughbird for some decadent morning pastries, and for something a bit heartier and full of locals, Moab Garage Co. After a day of hiking, Antica Forma was the ideal spot for some much needed carbs in the form of authentic Neapolitan pizza.
SHOP Moab has a thriving art scene full of local designers and creators. You’ll find handmade pieces of pottery and jewelry at Moab Made, and just across the street is a collection of locally designed apparel and gifts at ar-tee-sian.
WEAR This greatly depends on the time of year, but ankle-supporting hiking boots and sweat-wicking layers are a must. Even in the summer months the desert temperatures drop dramatically at night. Also, always, always have enough water for you and your hiking party.
PACK Arches can be a dusty place, so leave your silk shirts at home. In addition to your wardrobe you’ll want to pack reusable water bottles, electrolytes, a first aid kit, a wide-brimmed hat, non-perishable snacks for hikes, sunscreen, bug spray, a daypack or Camelback, headlamp and a good attitude. The hikes can definitely be on the challenging side!

SEE The National Park! The most popular sights at Arches are Delicate Arch, Landscape Arch, and Double Arch. Definitely try to hit those spots early in your day to avoid the crowds, and to dodge the often brutal midday sun. If you’re not looking to do much walking Double Arch and Balanced Rock are right near their parking lots. Grab your day pass here.
GO While most travelers have wide open options in the summer, so does everyone else. It can get uncomfortable crowded, and warm, between peak season June through August. If you can manage, try for late September through early November for crisp weather and less people. If you can handle the chill, Arches is also stunning in the snow, but bring your parka, temps can dip below freezing at night.

Ready to wander on a trip of your own? Get in touch and we’ll get you ready to go!