Arches National Park

One of the many natural arches in Arches National Park.

The dramatic skyline of the park.

Delicate Arch in Arches National Park.

Arches National Park has one of the largest concentration of natural stone arches in the world. Huge monoliths, arches and spires rise out of the arid earth like giant creatures.

The park has 11 hiking trails of varying difficulty; all demand good hiking shoes and hikers must carry their water. Shade in this blistering landscape is rare.

Twenty-four miles of paved roads lead to spectacular views of Balanced Rock, Delicate Arch, Skyline Arch and the Devils Garden. Although there are no designated bike trails, bicycles are permitted on all designated paved and unpaved roads. There is also one four-wheel-drive road that is popular with mountain bikers.

Technical climbing is allowed, no permits are required. However, some areas are restricted. Check at the visitor center for details and regulations.

Camping is permissible year-round at the Devils Garden Campground, which offers 52 sites. The campground fills early from March to October, often by early to mid-morning. About 28 campsites can be reserved through from March 1 to Oct. 31. The remaining 22 campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and usually fill early in the day.

Campsites at two group campgrounds at Canyon Wren and Juniper Basin may be reserved.

Dogs are not permitted on any trails or in the backcountry.

While four-wheel-drive vehicles are permitted on designated roads, all-terrain vehicles are prohibited on park roads.