Visiting Arches National Park

There are almost a dozen national parks, state parks and scenic drives within a short distance of the small town of Moab, Utah. The town is only 24 miles south down State Highway 191 from Interstate 70. The most popular park in that area is Arches National Park with its entrance only four miles outside of town.

Within Arches National Park are more than 2,000 natural, sandstone arches  including the well-known Delicate Arch, as well as a variety of unique geological resources and formations. The park contains the highest density of natural arches in the world.

The Delicate Arch

Inside the park is a really good visitor center along with miles of well marked hiking trails leading to a number of the more spectacular arches.

A Word of Caution – The biggest threat that visitors encounter, especially in summer, is heat stroke and serious dehydration. Always carry water with you when you head out on a trail.

Located between Moab and the Arches entrance is State Route 128 heading off to the northeast from 191. The road travels for 30 miles following the course of the Colorado River past a winery, a movie museum and some spectacular scenery before it goes north to connect with Interstate 70.

Moab’s focus is on tourism and features a selection of chain hotel accommodations along with restaurants, a brewery, ice cream and coffee shops.

The Colorado River flowing next to Route 191

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