Arches National Park is one of Moab’s most popular attractions. Throughout the year, you can find people visiting from all over just to see the distinct red rock formations in person. This year is the 50th anniversary of its national park status. In celebration of this natural wonder, here’s a little history of Arches National Park.
What is Arches National Park?
You probably didn’t know them by name, but like most people, you can only recall a vague memory of seeing a picture or screensaver with the red rocks of Arches National Park contrasting against the vibrant blue sky. But photos can’t even compare to the real thing. Jaws drop after seeing the majestic landscape filled with arches, giant balancing rocks, spires, and more, all of which glow in mesmerizing shades of red and orange as the sun moves through the sky.
How Were the Arches in Arches National Park Formed?
Over 300 million years ago, Utah’s canyon country was a vast inland sea basin. Over time the sea repeatedly dried up and refilled itself, each time leaving behind thousands of feet of salt beds. Eventually, sand and boulders would be carried downstream and bury the salt beds between layers of stone. The less-dense salt rose and formed domes and ridges under the rock layers.
As the groundwater dissolved the salt pockets, the domes collapsed, forming slender vertical rock slabs called fins, creating the natural wonders that we see today.
Visit Arches National Park
Today there are over 2000 documented arches within the almost 77,000-acre park. A paved road creates the perfect scenic drive for visitors to see some of the significant viewpoints. Along the Scenic Arches Drive are easy trails that even kids can traverse to get closer to these massive formations. Up for an adventure? For the expert hikers, there are more strenuous trails to try as well. Venture out to see some of the lesser-traveled areas in the park.
If you plan on heading to Arches National Park, check out these popular arches, formations, and viewpoints. And maybe even grab some pictures while you’re there!
- La Sal Mountain Viewpoint
- Park Avenue Trail
- Courthouse Towers
- Balanced Rock
- Delicate Arch
- Fiery Furnace
- Landscape Arch
- The Windows
Hotel Near Arches National Park
Stay near all of the adventure and history of Arches National Park. Hotel Moab Downtown is conveniently located less than five miles from the park and in the heart of downtown Moab. Our property offers guests a central location for exploring all that Moab and the surrounding areas have to offer.
Our cozy accommodations are the perfect place to rest your head. Clean and comfortable rooms feature all the modern amenities, including high-speed internet, and flat-screen TVs, to ensure an enjoyable stay. And for the best rate guaranteed, always remember to book directly on our website.