Is the trail suitable for beginners?

The tour can accommodate beginners if prepared for about 8-9 hours of hiking; guides adjust pace accordingly.

Are permits required for this hike?

No additional permits are needed beyond park entrance fees to participate in this guided tour.

What wildlife might I encounter?

You may see mule deer, lizards, golden eagles, and various desert birds during your hike.

Is the tour available year-round?

Yes, but spring and fall are the most comfortable seasons for hiking due to moderate temperatures.

Can I customize the hike itinerary?

Absolutely; the guides tailor the pace and stops to your group’s interests and fitness level.

How do I prepare for the high desert climate?

Wear layered clothing, bring sun protection, and drink plenty of water to handle dry conditions and variable temperatures.

Full Day Hiking Tour in Arches National Park, Utah

Arches National Park, located just outside Moab, Utah, is home to the world’s highest concentration of natural sandstone arches, drawing adventurers and nature lovers alike. This full day hiking tour offers a rare opportunity to witness these iconic geological wonders up close, navigating through scenic trails that wind past towering stone formations sculpted over millions of years. Stretching about nine hours, this private tour is designed to adapt to your group’s pace, whether you’re a seasoned hiker or seeking a more leisurely experience.

The park covers roughly 76,000 acres of stunning desert landscape characterized by its unique Entrada Sandstone, which forms arches, spires, and balanced rocks. Notable features along the hike commonly include Delicate Arch, Landscape Arch—the longest natural arch in North America—and Double Arch, whose massive interlocking spans dominate the sky.

Beyond the geology, Arches holds a rich cultural history shaped by Native American tribes and early settlers, offering context to the natural beauty before you. The park was established in 1971, safeguarding these striking formations that star in countless films and photographs.

What sets this hiking tour apart is the personalized attention from knowledgeable guides who share insights into the park's geology, ecology, and history, while allowing flexibility to linger in breathtaking spots or capture perfect photos. The hike traverses varied terrain, revealing vibrant red rocks contrasted by patches of fragile desert flora and occasional wildlife like mule deer or golden eagles.

Moab, the nearest city, serves as a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, providing convenient access to this world-class destination. Whether you seek adventure, photography, or a deep connection with the desert environment, this guided Arches National Park hike delivers an immersive, expertly crafted experience tailored just for you.

About Desert Highlights

Desert Highlights operates private guided outdoor adventures focused on Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and nearby canyon country. Desert Highlights offers customizable hiking tours, canyoneering, packrafting, and rock climbing designed for private groups, families, and small teams.

Tours include half-day and full-day hikes in Arches and Canyonlands, sunset hikes, multi-rappel canyoneering routes such as The Mail Slot, technical descents like Cow Swim Canyon with rappels of 85 and 155 feet plus a scenic 5-mile packraft float, and combined canyoneering and packrafting options in Moab.

Guides from Desert Highlights lead private hikes tailored to group pace and interests, providing route selection, interpretive geology, and safety-focused instruction. Several hiking options are listed with specific durations, including approximately nine-hour full-day Arches tours and five-hour half-day Arches tours. Rock climbing and half-day climbing options are also available, with routes such as Looking Glass Rock and Full Day Rock Climbing experiences.

Desert Highlights supports online booking for convenience and schedules departures that accommodate sunrise, daytime, and sunset experiences. Private groups can select easy, moderate, or challenging itineraries where available. Safety measures emphasize experienced guide supervision and appropriate technical skills for canyoneering and rappels. Desert Highlights maintains a focus on small-group private experiences to maximize solitude, landscape access, and personalized interpretation. The company’s publicly listed offerings document a range of adventure levels, from family-friendly packrafting floats to advanced multi-rappel canyoneering trips. Booking is available online for specified trips, and private guided hiking, canyoneering, packrafting, and climbing itineraries are offered year-round where conditions permit by request.