Utah: Arches & Canyonlands National Parks

Overview

Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, located near Moab, Utah, showcase some of the most spectacular red rock landscapes in the American Southwest. Arches is home to over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, along with spires, fins, and balanced rocks that create unforgettable scenery. Just a short drive away, Canyonlands reveals a world of vast canyons, mesas, and buttes carved by the Colorado and Green Rivers.

On a Wilderness Inquiry trip, you’ll explore the highlights of both parks, hiking through dramatic rock formations, desert valleys, and high overlooks. Arches offers iconic sights like Delicate Arch and Landscape Arch, while Canyonlands’ Island in the Sky district provides sweeping views across the desert floor. Along the way, your guides will share the cultural history and natural forces that shaped these unique landscapes.

Evenings bring time to relax in comfortable lodges, reflect on the day’s adventures, and enjoy the quiet beauty of Utah’s canyon country. With logistics, meals, and details handled for you, this trip is designed to let you focus on discovery. Together, Arches and Canyonlands create an extraordinary adventure filled with dramatic geology, endless vistas, and memories to last a lifetime.

Arches and Canyonlands Map

Arches and Canyonlands - Things to do:

🏘️ Stay in comfortable lodges
🥾 Hike red rock canyons and arches
🌊 Raft river rapids
🪨 Explore iconic rock formations
🍴 Indulge in local cuisine
🏤 Visit the history museum and visitor center
🧭 Enjoy Ranger-led nature talks
🌠 Stargaze at the constellations

Arches and Canyonlands - Trip Review:

“I didn’t think I or my 3 kids could hike 11 miles in 1 day, but we did it. And the views were SO worth it. The partition arch was absolutely stunning. I feel like I can do anything after doing that hike, and I will.” — Arches & Canyonlands Hike & Explore

Arches and Canyonlands: Tours and Trips

Arches and Canyonlands Lodge Based Hike and Explore

6 days

Lodge / Hotel

Hiking

Arches and Canyonlands Lodge Based Hike and Explore

Arches National Park, Utah, USA

$2350 (Adult)

Book now

Where are Arches & Canyonlands?

Located in southeastern Utah near the town of Moab, Arches National Park is famous for its more than 2,000 natural sandstone arches, towering fins, and striking rock formations. Nearby Canyonlands National Park protects dramatic canyons, mesas, and buttes carved by the Green and Colorado Rivers. Together, these two parks showcase the incredible red rock landscapes that define Utah’s canyon country.

What is the weather like at Arches & Canyonlands?

Both parks are in a high desert environment. Summers are hot and dry, with daytime highs often over 100°F, while winters can be cold, with highs in the 30s–40s°F and occasional snow. Spring and fall are the most comfortable seasons, bringing mild daytime temperatures and cooler nights, perfect for hiking and exploring.

What is the best time to visit Arches & Canyonlands?

The best time to visit is in spring (April–May) and fall (September–October), when the weather is moderate and trails are at their best. Summer can be very hot, while winter offers solitude and quiet beauty, though some areas may be less accessible.

How far apart are Arches and Canyonlands?

The two parks are very close together—just about 27 miles apart, or roughly a 30-minute drive. Many visitors explore both parks on the same trip.

How do you get to Arches & Canyonlands, and what is the closest airport?

The closest airport is Canyonlands Field Airport (CNY) near Moab, only about 20 minutes from Arches National Park. For more flight options, Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) is the nearest major hub, about a 4-hour drive away.