Arches NP - Bad idea in Summer

Redrocket is right. I lived in Moab for 15 years and would often go into the park in the summer and see few people. The ones there stay inside or close to their cars because of the heat. Go early in the morning and late in the evening and it's wonderful. Just don't leave your dog in the car, you'll get ticketed. I've sat out under juniper trees in 105 degree heat and felt fine, but I wouldn't want to hike very far. Be sure you drink lots of water, even if not hiking.

It's definitely o.k. to visit in summer and you'll find that you're not alone. Folks with children need to go when they're out of school.

As stated, the campground in the park will be closed all summer this year and there will be road construction. You'll want a park with electric to be comfortable and there are plenty available.

If your family won't mind this short time period of getting up early then it's easily doable. Early is a gorgeous time to walk the trails. If there's a full moon, the hike to Delicate Arch is perfect for the sunset... many folks do this. Depending on the children's ages, definitely sign up before getting there for the 'Fiery Furnace' ranger-led hike. It's very popular and you need to sign up in advance. It's a fun hike through the hoodoos and you'll have some shade. Read about it on the park's website.

https://www.nps.gov/arch/index.htm

There's a great flat bike trail starting in town and going down the river road. A boat trip on the Colorado River will be somewhat cooling. Naturally, 4-wheeling is popular and if you don't have a proper vehicle, perhaps renting one or taking a tour could be done. They are fun, beautiful trails.

Hope you can go. It's an awesome place.

I have been there twice in the summer. My kids are in school. We had a great time. RV parks there have full hook ups. I stayed at the same one both times. Right across from the entrance to Cayonlands NP.

ppine wrote:
Much better spring and fall and not so crowded. If you are coming from Western WA it will seem really hot and there are few hook ups to run the AC.

Actually, if I'm reading your post correctly and you're saying spring and fall are less crowded, that is not true. Spring and fall are the most crowded times in Moab as that is when the nicest weather exists.

Arches Devils Garden campground is closed through November 30th, 2017. But, there are many private RV Parks close by in and around Moab which do offer FHU so one can run air conditioning if you have an AC unit in your RV.

I've been to Moab multiple times during the spring for ATVing but am headed back this July with the family and TT. Yes it will be hot during the day and as already mentioned, you need to be on trail early and everyone should be bringing lots of water. Sunscreen, wide brimmed hats, long sleeved, loose light colored venting clothing will all help deal with the heat. Be prepared to stink :)


City of Moab's Official Tourism Website - Discover Moab

If you go in the summer then plan on getting up early and be on the trails by 7 AM or so. You'll have until 9 or 10 before it gets too hot. Carry 2 liters of water per person. Rest in the shade if you get too hot.

You can try late afternoon hiking to but it depends on how much it cools down.

I agree it is more enjoyable in the spring and fall, but summer is okay if you go in the early morning (7 or 8am). Make sure you bring water to drink on the various walks.

Will be there in September. No way I was going in summer.

Yes, very hot. Besides, if you are thinking of going this year there's lots of construction in Arches meaning some trails are closed and lots of congestion. Check out their project update here.

Much better spring and fall and not so crowded. If you are coming from Western WA it will seem really hot and there are few hook ups to run the AC.