Do you love to have a plan?
Get the inside scoop for your upcoming vacation —> this itinerary is the most detailed, epic, and easy-to-follow guide to the park!
STEP ONE: Choose a Time of Year
>> When should I go? <<
Your first task is going to be quick — we’re just getting warmed up. Grab a piece of paper, a notebook, a spreadsheet…whatever it is you like to take notes on. You’ll want to keep it handy so that you can keep your research in one place.
Right now, let’s choose a time of year that you want to visit Arches.
Each season in this park is unique and can give you a completely different experience depending on when you go. Let’s talk through the pros and cons so that you can make an informed decision on the best time of year for you!
Special note: You may already have a pretty good idea of when you will be able to go. For example, traveling during the summer might be the only time of year you can take your family. I totally understand, but keep reading. Let’s make sure you know what to expect while you’re there.
Winter (December – February)
If you’re looking for a magical and peaceful trip to Arches, you may want to consider a winter visit! Visiting during the winter months is a great way to see the park in a way that most people never do.
So, what’s so great about Arches during the winter? The biggest advantage is the lack of those notorious crowds that completely take over the park during the other seasons of the year. You’ll also beat the summer heat!
The downside? You may be hiking in the snow! A few trails such as the Devils Garden, Fiery Furnace, and Delicate Arch may be difficult and unsafe to navigate.
If you decide to visit the park in the winter, you may encounter seasonal closures and colder temperatures at any time — but if you’re prepared, you’ll have an adventure most people are never lucky enough to experience.
What You Need to Know
- Arches does get snow that may linger on the trails and roads during the winter.
- Winter temperatures in Arches are usually low….30 – 50 degrees during the day and 0 – 20 degrees at night on average.
- The Visitor Center and Devils Garden Campground are open year-round.
- No ranger programs are offered during the winter months.
Spring (March – May)
Early springtime in Arches is truly gorgeous….it is actually one of my very favorite times to be in the park. A few highlights you can expect during a spring visit include comfortable temperatures and sunny skies.
All hiking trails in the park should be open and ready to be explored!
What You Need to Know
- Crowding within Arches begins to pick up during these months. Expect plenty of people in the park….it’s an extremely popular place to be when school is out for Spring Break!
- A trip during the spring will require campground reservations.
- Spring weather in Arches can be unpredictable. Be prepared for a range of weather conditions and expect cooler temperatures in the morning and evening hours.
- Daytime temperatures range from around 60 – 80 degrees, making it the perfect time to hike some of the park’s longer trails!
Summer (June-August)
The Arches area is a bustling place during the summer months! You’ll have numerous lodging and dining options in Moab, plus access to all of the main points of interest, tours, programs, and visitor centers.
Your options are endless during the summer, but that comes with a price….crowds. Be prepared to share the amazing sights of Arches with people from all over the world during the popular summer season.
What You Need to Know
- As mentioned above, the crowd level during the summer is high. This will impact your trip in some way, as you will likely not be able to get places as quickly as you’d like or enjoy the sights without distraction.
- To better avoid the crowds and traffic jams common to Arches during the summer, you’ll definitely want to have a solid plan, like this detailed itinerary! Having a plan will minimize wasted time and make your trip much more enjoyable.
- Summer temperatures are hot hot hot in Arches. It’s not uncommon to experience 100+ degree days during a summer visit to the area.
- Rain during the summer months contributes to an increased risk of flash floods. This should not be taken lightly…check the weather/ask a ranger if you plan on hiking in an area prone to flooding.
Autumn (September – November)
Arches stays pretty busy all the way through the month of October, so don’t expect much solitude just yet!
That being said, autumn in Arches is fabulous — especially after Labor Day weekend. A few highlights of a trip during this season include fall colors, crisp temperatures, and a little more elbow room to enjoy the sights.
What You Need to Know
- Don’t expect the crowds to completely die down during the fall months. You’ll still share the trails with a substantial amount of people during this time.
- Autumn weather in Arches is extremely pleasant and perfect for hiking and exploring.
- Campground reservations are still required through the end of October.
- Temperatures aren’t scorching hot during these months, and the mornings and evenings may even feel a little cool.
Well, there you have it! I know….it’s a lot of information about the seasons of Arches. But now you’re ready to make a decision.
Let’s complete Step One. Decide what season is going to be best for your trip to Arches and write it down!
Now you’re ready for Step Two.
Click NEXT to find out how long you should plan to stay in the park!
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