No matter what time of year, Arches National Park is a beautiful place to visit. But the winter is particularly special as we start to see cooler temperatures and some moderate snowfall, creating an entirely new way to explore the park. Plus, with fewer crowds, it makes exploring our often-overcrowded parks an even better experience. Discover below our favorite things to do in Arches National Park in the Winter.
Photograph the winter landscape
Visiting Arches National Park is particularly beautiful in the winter. Right after a fresh snowfall, the contrast of white and red rocks makes for a stunning photo. The definitions and details in the rock and landscape really pop with a fresh layer of snow. And with fewer crowds, you won’t have to wait forever to get that perfect shot!
Discover here, our top five picks for the best arches in the park to photograph.
Stargazing
Designated as an International Dark Sky Park, Arches NP is home to some of the darkest skies in the country, perfect for stargazing. With shorter days and longer nights in the winter, there are plenty of opportunities for gazing at the night’s sky. Some even say that stargazing in the winter is the best time as there is less humidity in the air, so visibility is crystal clear. Just remember to dress warmly.
Hiking
Yes, you can hit the trails in Arches National Park during the winter months as most of the trails remain open throughout the year. But be aware of icy snowy conditions before heading out. Easy hikes to start with include the walk to Balanced Rock, the Windows, and Double Arch.
Discover other things to do in Moab during the winter with our handy guide.
Pack a picnic lunch
Pack up some food and head out to one of the many viewpoints in the park and enjoy a peaceful lunch with amazing views. Plus, with fewer visitors, you can feel like you have the park all to yourself. Popular viewpoints include the Fiery Furnace and the Park Avenue viewpoint.
Come prepared
During the winter, while the sun is usually shining, cold temperatures settle in, so be sure to dress appropriately. Average temps dip into the 40s during the day, sometimes in the upper 30s and in the 20s at night. Always wear layers and bring a hat and gloves for extra warmth.
Stay at Hotel Moab Downtown
After exploring Arches National Park in the winter, rest and relax at Hotel Moab Downtown. Just as our name suggests, we are located in the heart of downtown Moab and only 10 minutes from the park, offering a central location for exploring all that Moab has to offer.
Our clean and comfortable rooms feature all of today’s modern amenities, including high-speed internet and flat-screen TVs to ensure an enjoyable stay. Plus, for your safety and others, enjoy minimal contact with exterior corridors. We look forward to having you stay with us this winter!