If you only have one day in Arches, you can still see most of the highlights without running yourself ragged. Here’s how I’d plan it out, based on my own experience of braving 100-degree heat, chugging LMNT packets, and happily collapsing into bed afterward.

Morning

Visitor Center

Start here. Grab a map, check trail conditions, and browse the gift shop for that obligatory sticker or magnet.

Park Avenue Trail

Stretch your legs right away. You can either hike down into the canyon (2 miles round trip) or just enjoy the viewpoint. Either way, those towering cliffs are a dramatic welcome to the park.

Courthouse Towers

A short, easy stop that gives you big payoff views. Come in the morning when the sun lights up the formations.

Balanced Rock

Loop the short trail around Balanced Rock for a 360° view. Early morning light makes it glow.

Garden of Eden

A quick pullout where you can scramble up a rock or two for sweeping vistas. No trail required.

Midday

Sand Dune Arch

Head here before the heat really kicks in. It’s shaded in the morning and a fun little slot canyon walk with soft sand underfoot.

Skyline Arch

A quick, easy stop just down the road.

Devils Garden (Pine Tree, Tunnel, and Landscape Arch)

This hike takes a little time, but it’s worth it. Hit Pine Tree and Tunnel Arch first, then continue to Landscape Arch—the longest span in the park. The sandy trail slows you down a bit, so bring water and snacks.

Afternoon

Windows Section (North Window, South Window, Turret Arch)

This is the most bang-for-your-buck area in the park. Short trails, big arches, and incredible views. Do the primitive trail loop for a quieter perspective, and if you time it a couple hours before sunset, you’ll catch gorgeous light coming through Turret Arch.

Double Arch

Right across the parking lot, this is one of the most impressive formations in the park. A short walk, a towering payoff.

Sunset

Delicate Arch Hike

Save the big one for last. This 3-mile hike is steep and strenuous, but sunset is the most magical time to go. Plan to arrive at least an hour before sunset so you have time to find a spot, take your photos, and then just sit back and watch the arch glow.

Tips for Your Day

Pack food and water. There are no restaurants in the park.
Wear a hat and sunscreen. The trails are exposed and shade is basically nonexistent.
Start early. Beat the crowds and the heat.
Expect to walk 6–8 miles total. Most are short trails, but they add up.

Final Thoughts

In just one day, you can hit all the park’s best stops—short walks, iconic viewpoints, and the bucket-list hike to Delicate Arch. If you have extra time, spread it out over two days to soak it in a little more. But even if you only have a single day, Arches delivers nonstop “wow” moments.

One Day in Arches National Park: The Perfect Itinerary