Things to Do in Arches National Park
If you’re searching for things to do in Arches National Park, expect a mix of easy sightseeing, bucket-list hikes, and nearby adventure activities like whitewater rafting on the Colorado River. From sunrise at Delicate Arch to adrenaline-filled rapids just outside the park, this destination blends natural beauty with outdoor excitement.
Why Visit Arches National Park
Arches isn’t just a park, it’s a landscape that feels almost otherworldly. Massive red rock formations rise from the desert floor, shaped by millions of years of erosion, wind, and shifting underground salt beds.
What makes Arches truly special is its accessibility. You can explore iconic landmarks via short walks, scenic drives, or longer hikes, making it ideal for families, photographers, and adventure seekers alike. Plus, its proximity to Moab means easy access to rafting, off-roading, and guided outdoor experiences.
Our Trending Trips
Near Arches National Park
While Arches itself is known for hiking and sightseeing, some of the most exciting adventures happen just outside the park along the Colorado River.
Moab is one of the top rafting destinations in the country, offering everything from calm scenic floats to intense whitewater rapids. Pairing your visit to Arches with a rafting trip is one of the best ways to experience the region from a completely different perspective.
These trips are especially popular for travelers looking to turn a national park visit into a full-day or multi-day adventure. With options ranging from family-friendly floats to high-adrenaline canyon runs, there’s something for every type of explorer.
Fisher Towers Half-Day Rafting Trip | Colorado River, Moab
If you’re picturing the Colorado River winding through towering red rock canyons, calm stretches of water, and just enough splash to keep things fun. [...]
Westwater Canyon Full-Day Whitewater Rafting Near Moab, UT
If you’re looking for the most exciting rafting near Moab, Westwater Canyon delivers. This iconic stretch of the Colorado River combines towering canyon scenery [...]
Inflatable Kayaks Half Day | Moab, UT – Colorado River
Take control of your own river adventure with our Inflatable Kayaks Half Day trip in Moab, Utah! Paddle a stable, self-bailing inflatable kayak (also [...]
Fisher Towers Full-Day Rafting | Colorado River, Moab
Take your time on the Colorado River with a full-day rafting trip through the stunning Fisher Towers section. This extended journey goes beyond the [...]
Westwater Canyon Overnight Whitewater Rafting | Moab, UT
Take on one of the most legendary whitewater stretches in the Southwest with a 24-hour rafting and camping experience through Westwater Canyon. This overnight [...]
Stand Up Paddleboard Half Day | Moab, UT
Experience the beauty of Moab from a fresh perspective on the water with our Stand Up Paddleboard Half Day adventure! Glide across the iconic [...]
Fisher Towers Overnight Rafting | Colorado River Camping Near Moab
Slow down and experience the Colorado River the way few people do by spending a full day on the water and a night under [...]
3 Day Utah River Rafting Trips – Westwater Canyon | Moab, UT
Escape into one of the most iconic river canyons in the Southwest on our 3 Day Westwater Canyon Rafting Trip. This unforgettable multi-day adventure [...]
Whitewater Canoe Half Day | Moab, UT
Get ready for a hands-on river adventure with our Whitewater Canoe Half Day trip in Moab, Utah! Paddle your own inflatable canoe down a [...]
Arches National Park Rafting
Colorado River
The Colorado River spans seven states and flows through Grand Canyon on its journey from the Continental Divide to Mexico’s Gulf of California. This mighty river is a vital water source for 36 million people, and one which AVA is privileged to offer access to from our Moab outpost, conveniently located only 10 minutes from Arches Mountain National Park.
Fisher Towers Rafting
Fisher Towers rafting offers a scenic, calm stretch of the Colorado River perfect for soaking in the beauty of the Moab desert. This section features gentle Class I–II rapids, making it ideal for families, first-time rafters, and anyone looking for a relaxing float.
As you drift along the river, you’ll be surrounded by towering red rock formations and dramatic canyon walls, some of the most photographed scenery in Utah. It’s often described as “the Colorado River the way you imagined it,” combining peaceful water with unforgettable views.
Westwater Canyon Rafting
For those craving more excitement, Westwater Canyon delivers one of the best whitewater experiences in the Southwest. Known for its thrilling Class III–IV rapids, this stretch of river offers a true adrenaline rush set against stunning canyon scenery.
Beyond the rapids, Westwater is equally famous for its remote beauty: sheer canyon walls, quiet stretches of water, and a sense of isolation that makes the experience feel truly wild. It’s a must-do for adventure seekers visiting Arches and Moab.
Arches National Park Activities
Family-Friendly Rafting
Perfect for beginners and families, these trips focus on calm water, safety, and scenic views. With minimal rapids and plenty of time to relax, they’re a great way to introduce kids or first-time adventurers to rafting.
High Adrenaline Whitewater
If you’re looking for action, Moab’s whitewater delivers. Expect powerful rapids, fast-moving water, and plenty of excitement. These trips are best suited for thrill-seekers and those wanting a more intense outdoor experience.
Utah Scenery
From towering arches to winding canyons, the landscapes around Arches are some of the most dramatic in the country. Whether you’re hiking, driving, or rafting, the scenery is always front and center.
Best of Moab
Combine your Arches visit with the best of Moab: rafting, off-roading, hiking, and stargazing. The region is known for its dark skies, making it an incredible place to experience the stars after a day of adventure.
Hike to Delicate Arch
No trip to Arches is complete without seeing its most famous landmark. The hike to Delicate Arch is moderately challenging but rewards you with one of the most iconic views in the U.S.
Explore the Windows Section
This area offers some of the best bang-for-your-buck scenery with short, easy trails. You can see multiple arches, including North and South Window and Turret Arch, on a quick loop hike.
Drive the Arches Scenic Road
The park’s main scenic drive stretches about 18 miles and connects many of its top viewpoints and trailheads, making it perfect for first-time visitors or those short on time.
Visit Balanced Rock & Double Arch
These easily accessible formations are some of the most impressive in the park. Balanced Rock is a quick stop, while Double Arch offers a short walk to a massive, awe-inspiring structure.
Arches National Park Whitewater Rafting And Other Activities
Colorado Scenic Float-Half Day
This wonderful Colorado River float trip is a gently flowing section that is inviting to all ages. You’ll encounter a few small rapids as [...]
Browns Canyon 1/2 Day
Get ready to experience the best of Colorado on our Brown’s Canyon half-day trip. This family-friendly adventure rushes you down the Arkansas River and [...]
Browns Canyon Sizzler
The full-day Browns Canyon Sizzler represents the ultimate Colorado rafting experience! This trip offers a full day of classic white water rafting through class [...]
Stand Up Paddleboard Half Day
Try the newest, most fun activity on the river – Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP)! On this half-day trip, you’ll SUP 5 miles down the [...]
Gold Rush Clear Creek Rafting Adventure
Splash down the Clear Creek mining valley on our 1/3 day Gold Rush trip. Just a short half-hour trip from Denver, this family-friendly rafting [...]
Fisher Towers Half-Day Rafting Trip | Colorado River, Moab
If you’re picturing the Colorado River winding through towering red rock canyons, calm stretches of water, and just enough splash to keep things fun. [...]
Numbers 1/2 Day
Looking for that quintessential Colorado whitewater rafting experience? Head to the Numbers section of the Arkansas River! If you are an experienced rafter looking [...]
Cliffside Zipline Half Day
Fly through the trees on our exciting 6-line zipline course in Idaho Springs. This trip includes features such as a dual race line, hanging [...]
Other Rafting And Outdoor Adventures Near Arches National Park
Moab Adventure Trips with AVA Rafting & Zipline
Set against a backdrop of towering red rock formations, winding desert canyons, and the legendary Colorado River, Moab is one of the most iconic adventure destinations in the American Southwest. Just a short drive from both Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, Moab offers a unique blend of rugged wilderness and accessible outdoor experiences.
Whether you’re visiting for a quick getaway or building a full desert itinerary, Moab delivers big scenery, warm weather, and unforgettable time on the water.
Moab Rafting on the Colorado River
Welcome to AVA’s newest outpost in Moab, your basecamp for rafting the Colorado River in Utah. Whether you’re picturing calm red rock canyons or adrenaline-pumping rapids, Moab delivers both.
We focus on two distinct, high-demand rafting experiences:
- Fisher Towers → scenic, mellow, family-friendly float
- Westwater Canyon → powerful Class III–IV whitewater adventure
Things to Do in Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands National Park is a breathtaking showcase of rugged desert landscapes carved by the Colorado and Green rivers, featuring dramatic canyons, towering mesas, and unforgettable viewpoints that invite exploration and adventure.
From adrenaline-pumping river trips to scenic drives, hiking trails, and cultural exploration, things to do in Canyonlands National Park span all levels of outdoor enthusiasm.
Whether you’re gazing over the vast canyon expanses from Island in the Sky or launching a raft for a day on the river, Canyonlands offers a uniquely Utah experience that’s both wild and awe-inspiring.
Moab Adventure Trips with AVA Rafting & Zipline
825 Kane Creek Blvd, Moab, UT 84532
Set against a backdrop of towering red rock formations, winding desert canyons, and the legendary Colorado River, Moab is one of the most iconic adventure destinations in the American Southwest. Just a short drive from both Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, Moab offers a unique blend of rugged wilderness and accessible outdoor experiences.
Whether you’re visiting for a quick getaway or building a full desert itinerary, Moab delivers big scenery, warm weather, and unforgettable time on the water.
Things to Do in Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands National Park, UT
Canyonlands National Park is a breathtaking showcase of rugged desert landscapes carved by the Colorado and Green rivers, featuring dramatic canyons, towering mesas, and unforgettable viewpoints that invite exploration and adventure.
From adrenaline-pumping river trips to scenic drives, hiking trails, and cultural exploration, things to do in Canyonlands National Park span all levels of outdoor enthusiasm.
Whether you’re gazing over the vast canyon expanses from Island in the Sky or launching a raft for a day on the river, Canyonlands offers a uniquely Utah experience that’s both wild and awe-inspiring.
Moab Rafting on the Colorado River
825 Kane Creek Blvd
Moab, UT 84532
Welcome to AVA’s newest outpost in Moab, your basecamp for rafting the Colorado River in Utah. Whether you’re picturing calm red rock canyons or adrenaline-pumping rapids, Moab delivers both.
We focus on two distinct, high-demand rafting experiences:
- Fisher Towers → scenic, mellow, family-friendly float
- Westwater Canyon → powerful Class III–IV whitewater adventure
FAQs
The best things to do in Arches National Park include hiking to Delicate Arch, exploring the Windows Section, driving the scenic park road, and visiting iconic formations like Balanced Rock and Double Arch. Many visitors also combine their trip with nearby Moab adventures like Colorado River rafting for a full outdoor experience.
Most visitors spend anywhere from a half-day to two full days in Arches. A half-day allows time for the scenic drive and a few short stops, while a full day gives you the chance to complete a longer hike like Delicate Arch and explore multiple viewpoints throughout the park.
Yes. Many travelers pair Arches National Park with rafting on the Colorado River in Utah, which runs just outside Moab. It’s a popular way to balance hiking and sightseeing in the park with either a relaxing float or an adrenaline-filled whitewater adventure nearby.
The best time to visit Arches is typically spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) when temperatures are milder. Summer can be extremely hot, while winter offers fewer crowds but colder hiking conditions.
Yes, Arches is very family-friendly. Many trails are short and easy, such as the Windows Section and Balanced Rock area. Families also enjoy scenic drives with frequent stops, making it accessible for all ages and fitness levels.
