THE RUGGED BEAUTY OF ARCHES NATIONAL PARK
Come explore the remote landscapes of Arches National Park
Embark on the ultimate 10-day road trip adventure through the breathtaking landscapes of the Arches, Canyonlands, and Capitol Reef National Parks.
Your journey begins with an arrival in Moab, where you'll indulge in delectable dining experiences at the Desert Bistro, Antica Forma, and Josie Wyatt’s Grille before settling into the comfort of your accommodations at the Hyatt Place Moab.
Get ready to explore the otherworldly rock formations of Arches National Park, from the iconic Delicate Arch to the fascinating Devils Garden and Balanced Rock.
Next, your adventure takes you to the rugged terrain of Canyonlands, where you'll marvel at the mesmerizing Mesa Arch, Grand View Point, and the unique geological formations of The Needles District.
Take in the panoramic views of Dead Horse Point State Park and dare to embark on thrilling hikes through the whimsical Goblin Valley State Park and Little Wild Horse Canyon. As you make your way to Capitol Reef National Park, prepare for a scenic drive
Days
Day 1: Arrival and Dining in Moab
Begin the adventure by flying into Salt Lake City International Airport and driving to Moab, where stunning red rock landscapes await exploration for the next five nights. Settle into a chosen hotel, and take the evening to enjoy a gourmet dinner at one of Moab's top-notch dining establishments, which offer a plethora of options ranging from upscale to casual. After dinner, rest up at the selected hotel, gearing up for the days of exploration through the iconic national parks that lie ahead.
Eat
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Desert Bistro
Desert Bistro offers an upscale dining experience in the heart of Moab with a focus on sophisticated Southwestern cuisine. The charming atmosphere and carefully crafted menu make it a top choice for a relaxing and delicious dinner after a day of travel. -
Antica Forma
Antica Forma is a favored spot in Moab for those craving authentic Neapolitan pizza and Italian cuisine. The inviting ambiance and artisanal dishes provide a comforting meal in the desert town. -
Josie Wyatt’s Grille
Located onsite at the Hoodoo Moab, Josie Wyatt's Grille is a convenient and delectable option for hotel guests. The grille offers a range of dishes in a sophisticated setting, where every meal complements the surrounding natural beauty. -
The Spoke on Center
The Spoke on Center serves an array of American classics with a unique twist. This friendly restaurant is a great stop for travelers looking to fuel up with hearty and tasty food. -
Quesadilla Mobila
Quesadilla Mobila is a beloved food truck among both locals and visitors. Known for their scrumptious quesadillas, it's a perfect pit-stop for an early dinner or a satisfying afternoon snack before it closes at 5 pm.
Stay
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Hoodoo Moab
The much-lauded Hoodoo Moab is an upscale hotel boasting modern décor and comfortable accommodations within a stone's throw of Moab's restaurants and shops. The hotel is noted for its beauty but has received mixed reviews due to thin walls that may disturb light sleepers. -
Homewood Suites
Homewood Suites in Moab offers a balance of comfort and convenience with its kitchenette-equipped suites and onsite amenities such as a small pool and gym, gaining positive reviews for its family-friendly accommodations and helpful staff. -
Hyatt Place Moab
Hyatt Place Moab is a relatively new addition to the town's accommodations, highly rated for its modern amenities and proximity to Arches National Park. Ideal for visitors seeking a quick and easy start to their park explorations. -
MainStay Suites Moab
For travelers on a budget, MainStay Suites Moab provides a cost-effective solution without skimping on essentials. The suites come with kitchenettes and the capacity to accommodate families, making it a solid choice for an economical stay.
Transit
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Salt Lake City International Airport
As a major gateway to Utah's wonders, Salt Lake City International Airport is the starting point for many adventurers looking to explore the natural beauty of the state. This bustling airport offers a range of services and rental car options to facilitate an easy transition from air travel to road tripping.
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Day 2: Exploring Arches National Park
Arches National Park is filled with natural wonders and incredible geological formations. Starting early in the morning ensures a crowd-free experience to appreciate the park's beauty. The primary route, Arches Scenic Drive, takes visitors through awe-inspiring landscapes to numerous notable formations. The Devils Garden Trail is a versatile hiking path offering an up-close view of eight iconic arches, including the famous Landscape Arch. After exploring Devils Garden, journey back along Scenic Drive to visit additional arches and rock formations, culminating in a sunset at Delicate Arch, ending the day's adventure in Moab.
Visit
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Arches Scenic Drive
Arches Scenic Drive is the main 19-mile long thoroughfare through Arches National Park, providing access to many of the park's famous sights. It takes approximately 30 minutes to drive the length of this road, which leads to numerous trailheads and viewpoints. An early start on this drive allows for a quieter experience before the crowds arrive. -
Devils Garden
Devils Garden Trailhead is the starting point of a popular hiking loop in Arches National Park. The full loop is 7.8 miles long, with the option to do shorter hikes to see specific arches like the Landscape Arch. Known for its diversity of arches and the ability to customize the hike to one's preferences, it's recommended to visit early before it becomes crowded. -
Landscape Arch
Landscape Arch is one of the most iconic natural formations in Arches National Park, known for its delicate shape and impressive span. It is accessible via a relatively flat 1.6 miles round trip hike from Devils Garden. Landscape Arch is a must-see attraction for its unique geological features. -
Sand Dune Arch
Sand Dune Arch is a secluded arch tucked away among sandstone fins, offering visitors a cooler and quieter experience. It is known for the sandy area beneath it that resembles a miniature beach, making it a unique stop within the park. -
Skyline Arch
Skyline Arch stands tall and is easily accessible to visitors. It provides an excellent photo opportunity and is representative of the park's dynamic landscape. -
Garden of Eden
The Garden of Eden is a collection of pinnacles and rock spires that evoke a primordial landscape. It is a less traveled area of the park, offering a sense of discovery and tranquility. -
The Windows
The Windows section contains a high concentration of large arches, including the North Window, Turret Arch, and Double Arch. Short loop trails provide access to these impressive natural structures, perfect for exploring in the afternoon. -
Turret Arch
Turret Arch is one of the distinctive arches in the Windows section. It resembles a castle turret, and visitors can walk through the arch itself for a unique perspective. -
Double Arch
Double Arch is a rare geological feature within the park, consisting of two massive arches sharing a common end. This formation is a spectacular sight and provides a striking frame for photographers. -
Balanced Rock
Balanced Rock is a famous landmark within Arches National Park, easily recognized by the large boulder that seemingly defies gravity by balancing on a slender pedestal. It can be seen from the park road and is a popular stop for visitors. -
Park Avenue
Park Avenue is a valley located within Arches National Park, flanked by towering rock walls and named for its resemblance to a city street lined with skyscrapers. It offers a fantastic walking trail with panoramic views. -
Delicate Arch
Delicate Arch is arguably the most famous and photographed arch within the park. A hike to this iconic freestanding natural arch is the perfect way to end the day, especially during sunset when the colors become exceptionally vibrant.
Stay
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Moab
Moab serves as the perfect base for exploring the nearby national parks, with a variety of accommodation options. This vibrant town offers a range of amenities and is the ideal spot to rest after a day of adventure in Arches National Park.
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Day 3: Canyonlands Exploration and Dead Horse Point
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Mesa Arch
Mesa Arch is a poetically formed natural arch which stands as a window to the sunrise. A destination that beckons photographers from around the globe, visitors flock here early in the morning to capture the sun rising through the arch's frame. -
Grand View Point
Grand View Point offers breathtaking panoramic views of the canyons below which have been sculpted by the Colorado River. A nearby trail invites guests to walk along the canyon rim, embracing the vastness of the area. -
White Rim Overlook
The White Rim Overlook is accessible via a short hike and provides stunning views of the Canyonlands' white rim layer, a prominent feature in the park's stratigraphy. -
Green River Overlook
This viewpoint gives visitors a grand perspective of the Green River as it meanders through the Canyonlands, carving its path through the landscape and creating sublime scenes. -
Upheaval Dome
Upheaval Dome is a geologic anomaly consisting of a crater-like feature that stands out in the park's terrain. The hike to the overlooks presents an informative journey into one of the park's most compelling mysteries. -
Whale Rock
Whale Rock is a dome-shaped rock formation offering a relatively easy climb that rewards hikers with 360-degree views of Canyonlands National Park. -
Aztec Butte
Aztec Butte is a notable trail that guides visitors to ancient granaries and offers a glimpse into the history of the ancestral Puebloan people who once inhabited the region. -
Shafer Canyon Viewpoint
This viewpoint provides an impressive view of the Shafer Canyon Road with its intricate series of switchbacks, a testament to human engineering amidst natural splendor. -
Visitor Center Viewpoint
Adjacent to the park's visitor center, this viewpoint gives visitors a chance to observe the majestic White Rim Road and take in the vastness of the park's landscape. -
Dead Horse Point State Park
Dead Horse Point State Park offers a dramatic overlook of the Colorado River and Canyonlands National Park, with an array of short trails beckoning for a serene hike amidst striking views.
Transit
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Grand View Point Road
This roadway takes travelers through the Island in the Sky district, offering access to numerous scenic overlooks and trailheads, each providing a unique perspective of Canyonlands' dramatic, carved landscape.
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Day 4: Exploring The Needles
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The Needles District of Canyonlands
The Needles District is a visually stunning part of Canyonlands National Park known for its remarkable sandstone spires. It is less visited compared to the Island in the Sky District, offering a more serene experience. The main road through the park is short, but the area is rich with trails that showcase the unique geological features. -
Pothole Point Trail
Pothole Point Trail is an easy-to-navigate path in The Needles District of Canyonlands, perfect for families with children. The trail takes hikers through a landscape dotted with natural potholes and offers a gentle introduction to the area's scenery. -
Slickrock Trail
The Slickrock Trail presents a more challenging hike in The Needles District, featuring longer distances and better views. Hikers on this trail will enjoy the expansive views of the unique rock formations that define the park. -
Chesler Park
Chesler Park is a must-visit hiking destination within The Needles District, known for its close-up encounters with the districts' namesake rock pillars. The hike to the viewpoint is approximately 6 miles round trip, which can be extended by adding the Joint Trail loop for a more comprehensive experience. -
Druid Arch
Druid Arch is one of the more challenging hiking destinations in The Needles District, famed for its distinctive arch that resembles ancient European stone constructions. This hike is recommended for avid hikers seeking a formidable trail experience.
Stay
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Moab
Moab is the adventure hub of southeastern Utah, known for its proximity to natural wonders like Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. As a prime spot for rest and relaxation after exploring these landscapes, Moab offers varied accommodations and is an ideal place for visitors to spend the night.
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Day 5: Exploring Canyonlands and Moab Adventures
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Gooseberry Trail
The Gooseberry Trail in Canyonlands National Park is a challenging backcountry hike offering stunning canyon views and wilderness solitude. It's ideal for adventurous hikers seeking to explore the park's pristine landscapes away from the more frequented spots. -
Syncline Loop
The Syncline Loop is a strenuous trail in the Island in the Sky district of Canyonlands National Park. This trail is perfect for experienced hikers looking to discover remote canyons and the epic Crater, a deep, vast geologic depression. -
Tower Arch
Tower Arch is a less-visited but equally impressive natural arch within Arches National Park. The trail to Tower Arch offers a peaceful hiking experience and the chance to appreciate the unique geological formations up close. -
Fiery Furnace
The Fiery Furnace is a labyrinth of sandstone fins and alleyways in Arches National Park. The area is accessible only by ranger-guided tours or with a permit, offering a guided adventure through a maze of geological wonders. -
Corona Arch
Corona Arch is an iconic sandstone arch located near Moab. Accessible by a moderately easy hiking trail, this arch is a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers visiting the Moab area. -
White Rim Road
The White Rim Road is a 100-mile loop that takes drivers around the Island in the Sky mesa with astonishing viewpoints along cliff edges and canyons formed by the Colorado and Green Rivers. High-clearance 4WD vehicles and permits are required, and the journey offers one of the most spectacular off-road experiences in the park. -
Dead Horse Point State Park
Dead Horse Point State Park is renowned for its dramatic overlooks of the Colorado River and Canyonlands' sculpted pinnacles and buttes. It provides some of the most breathtaking views in the American Southwest and is a must-see destination for nature photographers and sightseers alike. -
Shafer Canyon Road
Shafer Canyon Road features a series of switchbacks descending from the Island in the Sky district to the White Rim level. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for this thrilling drive, which offers panoramic views and a connection to Potash Road. -
Potash Road
Potash Road is a scenic backcountry route that runs adjacent to the Colorado River. Highlights along this drive include petroglyphs, dinosaur tracks, and the majestic view beneath Dead Horse Point State Park's overlook, and movie buffs will recognize it as a filming location for 'Thelma and Louise.'
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Day 6: Goblin Valley and Little Wild Horse Canyon Excursion
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Goblin Valley State Park
Goblin Valley is a state park known for its incredible geological formations, often referred to as 'hoodoos', which are mushroom-shaped rock pinnacles. It's an excellent spot for hiking and exploration, especially for families with children. The park enables visitors to wander through these formations freely or follow designated trails for a more structured adventure. -
Little Wild Horse Canyon
Little Wild Horse Canyon is one of the most accessible and enjoyable slot canyons in Utah. It features a series of tight passageways, high, curving walls, and sections that may require simple rock scrambling. The canyon offers various hiking options, including a 4.5-mile out-and-back route or an 8.1-mile loop through Bell Canyon. -
Capitol Reef National Park
Capitol Reef National Park is an American national park located in south-central Utah. Known for its unique geologic features, including the Waterpocket Fold, Capitol Reef offers a variety of hiking trails, scenic drives, and historic sites. Visitors often explore the park's orchards, hike to viewpoints, and learn about the region's rich pioneer and Native American history.
Stay
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Torrey
Torrey is a small town located near Capitol Reef National Park, which serves as an excellent base for visitors exploring the park. It offers various lodging options, from standard hotel rooms to unique accommodations like teepees and Conestoga Wagons, catering to a range of preferences and budgets. -
Skyview Hotel
The Skyview Hotel is a 3-star hotel in Torrey offering standard rooms with remarkable views and unique lodging options like tents with skylights. It's praised for its unique accommodations and is considered one of the most distinctive and highly-rated properties in the area. -
Capitol Reef Resort
Located very close to the west entrance of Capitol Reef National Park, the Capitol Reef Resort provides a variety of decorative rooms, tepees, and Conestoga Wagon stays. Guests can enjoy clean, quiet rooms and an onsite restaurant, The Pioneer Kitchen, which offers decent food and friendly service. -
SkyRidge Inn
The SkyRidge Inn in Torrey features standard hotel rooms, deluxe suites, and a three-bedroom villa, making it suitable for families or small groups. The property is known for its comfortable accommodations and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. -
Cougar Ridge Lodge
Cougar Ridge Lodge is celebrated for its exceptional reviews and offerings. Guests can reside in two-bedroom villas that accommodate up to seven people, with each villa boasting its own patio to enjoy the breathtaking mountain vistas.
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Day 7: Exploring Capitol Reef National Park
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Fruita
Fruita is a historic district known for its charming orchards within Capitol Reef National Park. Once a Mormon settlement, it is now a popular starting point for park visitors keen to explore the rich history and natural beauty of the area. -
Capitol Reef Scenic Drive
This scenic drive is the gateway to Capitol Reef's stunning landscapes, offering access to many of the park's notable features and trails. A beautiful route that allows visitors to immerse themselves in the splendor of the park's unique geological formations. -
Grand Wash
Grand Wash is a broad canyon reminiscent of the Narrows in Zion National Park, with the exception of being a dry valley. It offers a pleasant hike through wide slot canyons, surrounded by towering cliffs. -
Cassidy Arch
Named after the infamous outlaw Butch Cassidy, Cassidy Arch is a stunning natural arch located within the park. It is a favorite among hikers for its impressive size and the panoramic views it offers of the surrounding area. -
Capitol Gorge Road
Capitol Gorge Road is a route that takes visitors deep into the heart of Capitol Gorge. The road ends at a trailhead, where hikers can walk to the Pioneer Register and witness the names of early settlers inscribed on the canyon walls. -
Pioneer Register
The Pioneer Register is a cultural site within Capitol Gorge where early pioneers left their mark in the form of names etched into the rock walls. It serves as a historical record of those who passed through this route in the 18th and early 19th centuries. -
Cohab Canyon Trail
Cohab Canyon Trail offers hikers the opportunity to explore a series of vantage points with breathtaking views over Fruita and the park's landscape. It is a moderately strenuous trail that rewards with stunning vistas. -
Hickman Bridge
Hickman Bridge is a natural arch that presents a relatively easy hike. It's a perfect spot for those looking to marvel at the park's natural architecture without a strenuous climb. -
Sunset Point
Sunset Point offers visitors an opportunity to witness the captivating colors of the setting sun against the backdrop of Capitol Reef's dramatic landscape. A must-see for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Stay
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Torrey
Torrey is the closest town to Capitol Reef National Park and offers a range of accommodations for visitors. It's an ideal place to rest after a day of exploration within the park.
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Day 8: Cathedral Valley Loop Adventure
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Cathedral Valley
Cathedral Valley is a less-visited but strikingly beautiful district within Capitol Reef National Park. Known for its awe-inspiring sandstone monoliths and vast desert landscapes, it is an ideal location for those seeking solitude and adventure off the beaten path. The Cathedral Valley Loop offers a chance to see nature's wonders up close, with a recommended 4x4 vehicle to handle the unpaved, rugged terrain. -
Temples of the Sun and Moon
These iconic geological formations are essential sights for visitors driving the Cathedral Valley Loop. The Temples of the Sun and Moon are towering monoliths that rise dramatically from the valley floor, offering an impressive photographic opportunity and a glimpse into the natural forces that shaped this landscape over millions of years.
Stay
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Torrey
Torrey is the nearest town to this part of Capitol Reef National Park and serves as the perfect base for exploring the surrounding areas. With a selection of lodging options, it is a convenient place to rest after a day of rugged adventure. Its proximity to the park makes it an ideal location for travelers to unwind and prepare for another day of exploration.
Transit
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Capitol Reef Jeep Rentals
For those who don't own a high clearance or 4x4 vehicle, Capitol Reef Jeep Rentals provides the necessary equipment to navigate the tough terrain of Cathedral Valley. Renting a suitable vehicle is highly recommended to ensure safety and to make the most out of the scenic drive around the loop.
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Day 9: Capitol Reef Exploration & Departure
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Notom-Bullfrog Road
This semi-paved road turns to gravel and is suitable for high-clearance vehicles, leading adventurers to several slot canyons like Headquarters Canyon and Surprise Canyon. It's a central part of the Loop the Fold drive, offering an intimate and secluded experience within the southern part of Capitol Reef National Park. -
Burr Trail Road
A famous scenic backway, Burr Trail Road features legendary switchbacks with expansive views as it rises out of Capitol Reef National Park and into Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. It provides access to many panoramic lookout points including the Strike Valley Overlook. -
Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
This vast national monument spans across south-central Utah, offering a multitude of rugged and picturesque landscapes. The monument features a series of plateaus and cliffs that step down across the region; it's known for its rich geological history and diverse collection of flora and fauna. -
Boulder Mountain
Part of the Dixie National Forest, Boulder Mountain provides stunning views as you drive along Utah Highway 12 en route back to Capitol Reef National Park. It is one of the highest timbered plateaus in North America, offering vistas that extend far beyond the boundaries of the park.
Stay
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Torrey
Torrey is a small town located near Capitol Reef National Park and serves as a convenient base for travelers to rest after exploring the area. With its picturesque setting and proximity to outdoor adventures, Torrey is a favorite among visitors to Capitol Reef.
Transit
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Salt Lake City International Airport
As the gateway for flights in and out of Utah, this international airport serves as the concluding transit point for travelers completing their visit to the national parks. Located close to the city, it provides efficient access for passengers heading to their next destination.
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Day 10: Departure from Salt Lake City
Transit
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Salt Lake City International Airport
Salt Lake City International Airport is a civil-military airport located about four miles west of Downtown Salt Lake City, Utah. The airport is the closest commercial airport for more than 2.5 million people and is within a 30-minute drive of nearly 1.3 million jobs. The airport is the fourth-largest hub for Delta Airlines, as well as a hub for Delta Connection carrier SkyWest Airlines.
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