FAQ: Hike to Delicate Arch in Arches National Park  

FAQ Hike to Delicate Arch in Arches National Park 1

There’s a lot to do in preparing for a trip to tour Utah’s parklands. As you’re getting ready for a once-in-a-lifetime trip to visit the world-famous Arches National Park, it can help to gather some essential information. So, here are some helpful answers provided by Red River outback Utah tour guides to frequently asked questions about visiting Arches park:

What Is the Best Month to Visit Arches National Park?

The best time to visit Arches National Park is early springtime or late fall. Ideally, April or May are excellent months to visit during the spring. There aren’t as many people in the park as in the summer, and the weather tends to be the best of the entire year. Daily highs range from 73°F to 84°F. Daily lows range from 47°F to 57°F.

How Long Does It Take To Go Through Arches National Park?

The scenic drive through Arches park is approximately 18 miles in one direction, or a total of around 45 miles. Allow at least 4 to 5 hours for driving the full length of the road through the park, and plan for brief stops along the way of at least 5 to 30 minutes each to enjoy some scenic views. If you’re going to hike to the Arches, plan more time. There are, of course, also many great options for day hikes in Arches National Park. You may decide to plan several trips to explore a few trails that capture your interest.

Do You Have to Pay to Get Into Arches National Park?

Your ticket for admission to the park is good for 7 days. You can exit and reenter throughout the 7 days. Here are the admission fees for Arches National Park:

  • Private Vehicle Fee: $30.00 for a non-commercial private vehicle with 15 or fewer passengers.
  • Motorcycle Fee: $25.00 for a non-commercial motorcycle and the riders.
  • A Person Without a Vehicle: $15.00 for an individual without a car, such as a hiker, bicyclist, or pedestrian. Admission is free for youths aged 15 or under.
  • Timed Entry Ticket: From April 3 through October 3, 2022, you will need a reservation to enter the park! Timed Entry Ticket Fee: $2.00. Make reservations at recreation.gov or call (877) 444-6777. It is not possible to make reservations at the park offices or entrances.
  • Annual Pass: $80 admits one non-commercial vehicle or the pass holder into the park.
  • Southeast Utah Parks Pass: $55.00 for one year from the month issued. Admits one non-commercial vehicle or the pass holder to Canyonlands and Arches national parks and Natural Bridges National Monument.

Check the park service website for more complete information on admissions prices.

Can You Just Drive Around Arches National Park?

Yes, you can. But, how long does it take to drive through Arches National Park? That really just depends on your interest in the park. You can drive through Arches park in just a couple of hours to take in the scenery from the car window. Or, you can spend most of the day making your way through the 36 miles of gorgeous terrain on the road through the park, stopping to take your time at some of the many spots offering breathtaking panoramic vistas.

How Early Do You Need to Get to Arches National Park?

The park is normally open 24 hours a day all year long. It is extremely busy in Arches park from March through October. It is strongly recommended that you arrive at the park well before 8 am or after 3 pm to avoid very dense traffic. Ideally, you should be at the park by 6 am or 7 am, or after 5 pm, when the traffic is much less. During the longest summer days, sunset is between 8 and 9 pm, so early evening, around 6 pm or 7 pm, is a good time to beat the heat and the heavy mid-day traffic in the park.

Are There Animals in Arches National Park?

The park is home to many indigenous animals, most of which are nocturnal. Some of the common species of animals in Arches National Park include foxes, owls, mountain lions, skunks, ringtails, bats, and a variety of small desert rodents.

Are There Petroglyphs in Arches National Park?

A spectacular wall of petroglyphs in Arches is accessed only about 10 minutes off the Delicate Arch hiking trail (where the trail forks). Also, see the spectacular Dark Angel Pictographs obscured in a quiet and captivating area of Arches National Park. The trailhead to the pictographs is easily accessible in good weather conditions. The pictographs feature hundreds of spellbinding ancient images. Allow at least a half day to walk out to these rock art images and spend abundant time enjoying them.

Is There a River Near Arches National Park?

The Colorado River forms the southern perimeter of Arches National Park. On the other side of the river is the Moab Valley and the world-famous travelers’ haven of charming Moab. Eastward, beyond the Colorado River, the stunning La Sal Mountains tower more than 12,000 above the high desert floor of Utah. To the west is the fascinating Moab Canyon.

For the Best of the Utah Outback – Red River Tours

We are your resource for Utah’s most fun guided outback adventures. For one-day family excursions or several days exploring the wonders of nature, we’re your licensed and certified wilderness guides for the Moab region!

For guided hiking, climbing, canyoneering, skiing, or other adventure trips in Utah, call Red River Rafting Tours at (435) 259-4046, or contact us here online anytime!

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We strive to ensure that time spent with us is time that you will always look back on fondly. We want to leave you with a memories that bring a smile to your face no matter where you are, no matter what you are doing, and no matter how much time has passed. In addition to a deep reservoir of personal experience, our rafting guides are licensed by the state of Utah, have Wilderness First Responder and/or First Aid/CPR certifications, and are insured. Many guides also have swiftwater rescue training. Our climbing and canyoneering guides are AMGA-certified for the terrain in which they operate. Our skiing guides are certified for the terrain, and some are world-renowned for their experience. All of our guides are intimately acquainted with not only the river, rock and snow, but also with the incredible surroundings of the areas we guide.

River Rafting Reviews and Red River Adventure Testimonials!

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Caitlin Mollahan
April 22, 2023

Amazing trip and guide! Would do it again

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Michelle Harrison
April 20, 2023

We had a blast canyoneering the Bow and Arrow Canyon with Dan! He is a great well experienced guide. He is also super fun and patient. It was our first time canyoneering and we all loved it! We would highly recommend this trip to anyone!

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Jen Hocherman
April 18, 2023

This half day rafting trip was fantastic! We would absolutely recommend it! Our guide Dan was knowledgeable and had lots of interesting information to share along the way. We rafted through four sets of rapids, got soaked, and had fun!

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Makayla Taylor
April 17, 2023

Every part of this was amazing!! Dan was our tour guide and he was incredible! 100% recommend.

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Joyann McChesney
April 17, 2023

Great day, fantastic guides! Highly recommend.

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Alison Browning
April 12, 2023

We did Bow & Arrow route 2 adults, 2 middle schoolers. Kenzie was fantastic, especially with helping one child face fears on the big rappel. This is a great activity for adventurous families

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Adam Smith
April 10, 2023

We had an awesome experience! I took my 4 kids ages 9-16 on the Morning Glory canyoneering trip. Our guide Kenzie was awesome! The 2 rappelling spots of 90 & 120 ft in Grandstaff were amazing and the most memorable time for my kids in Moab. Thank you!

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Lisa reese
April 10, 2023

Carl was very easy to work with in planning your trip. All guides were fun, knowledgeable, and confident in their skills. I would recommend the Bow and Arrow as it has the most repels. The hike up and in was very scenic.

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Brandon Swenson
April 7, 2023

Honestly the best river rafting company group in Moab. They are local experts, the guide we had really gave us a good time out there. Next time we're in Moab we're comin back!

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George
April 3, 2023

Canyoneering was incredible! Our guide, Brian, was very knowledgeable about rappelling and the terrain. He made our group feel very safe the whole way. Highly recommended if you’re looking for an adventure!

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William Kellagher
April 2, 2023

I did the Rock of Ages Canyoneering trip today & it was AWESOME!! Brian was an amazing guide and the group I was with was great. The best day I had on my Moab trip! If you're afraid of heights like me, don't let that stop you from booking a trip. It was incredible day

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Brett Woodward
March 15, 2023

I took AIARE lvl 1 with Garth and Jeremy and I learned a ton and had a great time in the process, couldn’t ask for more!

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Jake Scheuerlein
March 15, 2023

Garth and Jeremy were fantastic instructors and I plan on taking my Level 2 first thing next season thru RRA.

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Antoine Rioux
March 7, 2023

Amazing experience! Our guide John understood very well our expectations for the day and chose safe options to have a lot of fun despite the considerable risk for avalanches (> 60 inches of snow in the last days).

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Nathan Dorfman
February 28, 2023

I could not be more satisfied with my AIARE 1 class with Red River Adventures and awesome instructors Jake and Garth. Engaging, educational and a ton of fun.

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Rebecca Raich
February 27, 2023

Great AIARE 1 class - instructors knew their stuff and were patient & professional. Class was pretty intensive, but I now feel like I can more safely adventure in the backcountry.

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hudsonm777
February 27, 2023

Highly recommend. Friend and I hired a guide for our first time ice climbing. Bryan was super knowledgeable and helped everyone grow and have a great time.

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Zoe Huish
February 27, 2023

Had my Avy 1 Course this weekend led by Garth Tino and Jake Scheinman. They were both fantastic instructors and people. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience!

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Nathan Hernday
February 20, 2023

Had an awesome time doing some ice climbing, guided by Jake. I was hoping to do as much learning as possible on gear and techniques, and he was fun and full of all the info that I was looking for. Jake and Red River Adventures are both highly recommended.

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Lisa Ryan
February 17, 2023

We just got done with our tour with Jake. It was amazing! He was very educational and also very helpful for our first time out! I would highly recommend Red River Adventures for any touring trip.

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Christine Patterson
February 14, 2023

Awesome experience with John in the backcountry. Perfect mix of fun runs and learning experiences. Definitely a day I won’t forget !

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Ben Romney
February 6, 2023

Did a one week guided ski trip in Hokkaido with Carl and local guide Mako. It was, without hyperbole, the best damn trip of my life. Skiing was phenomenal, followed by an amazingly relaxing, refreshing, and energizing onsen visit, then wonderful drinks/dinner, at a different spot every night for a great variety of Japanese cuisine. I honestly could t have asked for more.

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Steven Obrzut
February 4, 2023

Great, friendly, and knowledgeable

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Ema Waring
January 30, 2023

Brian J was a great guide for the beginner, full-day ice climbing tour in UT! Coming in with no prior experience, my party felt safe the whole time. It was a great workout and experience.

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Kyle W.
January 30, 2023

Brian was an amazing guide for our ice climbing excursion and Red River made the whole experience super seamless and easy. 10/10 would book again.

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Brian
January 29, 2023

The pow was legendary. The laughs were all time. One of the best trips of my life. Carl and co have it dialed.

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Austin McMullen
January 25, 2023

Amazing experience with Jake in my Level 1 course!

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Scott Conway
January 17, 2023

John and Adam lead us through the 3 day Avi 1 experience. It was very informative, well-managed and adaptive for the different skill levels of the class and accounting for the weather changes. I can not wait to take the next course with them.

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Sarah Clark
January 15, 2023

Great day in the mountains with a great guide

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Andrew Grimes
January 14, 2023

Really knowledge and professional guides. We had a super informative, well organized Avy1 class that was also a fun time. Thanks John and Adam!

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Mark Holbrook
January 10, 2023

Wonderful trip with them skiing in BC with Northern Escapes Heli skiing!

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A Google User
January 10, 2023

Red River put on a great Avy AIARE 1 course. Great knowledgeable guides giving practical skills that can be used everyday we are planning to go into the backcountry.

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Mark Sghiatti
January 9, 2023

Instructors were great. Super friendly and accommodating.

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Andrew Upton
December 30, 2022

Knowledgeable folks that are precise and efficient. Added a lot of fun to an avy 1 course while highlighting the dangers of the activity

Awesome experience. Carl was great at picking terrain to match ability and gave helpful tips /instruction

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Brian Cain
December 24, 2022

We took an avalanche rescue class in the Wasatch with Red River. Our guide, Jake, was awesome! Small group, great/welcoming educational environment, fun all around. Update: came back for AIARE 2 and I'd give another 5 stars if I could. Another small group size. Chris & Sam were gurus. Both Red River classes were like an AMA with the snow oracle.

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Ada S
December 21, 2022

Derek was a great guide, would highly recommend.

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Luke Counterman
December 21, 2022

Took the AIRIE-1 course through Red River Adventures. Our guides John, Jake, and Garth were fantastic. The layout of the three days worked very well. There was an emphasis on participation especially in mapping and pre-trip planning. Group size was small on field days, 5-6 people per instructor, which enhanced learning. Overall exceeded my expectations for the course and had a blast skiing in the Wasatch backcountry to boot.

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Max Valverde
December 15, 2022

Had an incredible avalanche one course. John, Jake, and Garth are true professionals and total legends in the backcountry. I’d learn from these guys, or go on a tour with them as guides any day of the week! Thanks again gents.

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Shawn Gordon
December 10, 2022

Great Avalanche Rescue course. A good refresher for the season. Highly recommend John as a guide! His help and advice doesn't end when the class is over.

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Jason L
December 10, 2022

John taught our avalanche rescue course and was fantastic. I am so much better prepared to respond in an emergency.

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Ashley Bovee
December 8, 2022

Red River Adventure is the place to go for an Avy course! The guides are extremely educated, fun, and it is clear they love what they do. They were able to answer all my questions and beyond. John and Jake did a great job with the course, leaving me with more confidence, but respect, in the backcountry than ever before.

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Pr3Historic
November 30, 2022

Kaya, Mary, and Spencer were the best guides one could ask for in every way

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Ellie Jacques
November 30, 2022

Had an epic time with Kaya, Spencer, and Mary at crack camp. HIGHLY recommend crack camp for other climbers who have been on a couple cracks but lack formal instruction in crack climbing. Staff was professional and RRA/Carl was super helpful and communicative.

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Anna Schapiro
October 23, 2022

We had a relaxing ride down the river in Moab with a guide who was extremely knowledgeable about the surroundings. Sadly Labor Day was the last day of the season for rafting. Keep that in mind!

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Bruce Whittemore
October 12, 2022

Ben was an awesome guide. He was great to hang with. Was safety conscious, and was extremely helpful. We would definitely enjoy climbing with him again

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David Zane
September 25, 2022

Unbelievably professional and skilled - amazing time

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Keilah Butler
September 7, 2022

Great guides, great experience! Thanks!

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Savannah Houle
September 6, 2022

It Was Absolutely Amazing, Had Such A Wonderful Time ! Loved Being Able To Swim And Enjoy The Views

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Joe Carissimi
September 5, 2022

Great full day tour!! Sarah was an awesome guide. Good time had by all. Highly recommend it.