Explore the dark skies of Arches National Park on a night photography tour focused on capturing the Milky Way. Learn camera techniques while surrounded by iconic sandstone formations lit only by stars.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
When daylight fades over the red rock landscape surrounding Moab, a different kind of adventure begins beneath an expansive black canvas peppered with stars. Arches National Park, designated as an International Dark Sky Park, offers rare clarity for astrophotographers eager to document the Milky Way’s hazy river of light. This guided photography tour takes you beyond daylight’s limit and into night’s embrace, where towering sandstone arches cast skeletal shadows and constellations dare you to focus your lens.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Light physical activity required; minimal walking on uneven terrain at night.
Wildlife
History
The park features ancestral Puebloan sites nearby, connecting ancient human stories to the timeless night sky.
Conservation
Arches National Park enforces strict light pollution controls to preserve its dark sky status for wildlife and visitors alike.
Reserve your spot on the Milky Way Photography in Arches National Park today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring a sturdy tripod
Long exposure shots require a stable base to avoid blurring—essential for sharp Milky Way photos.
Dress warmly for desert nights
Temperatures can plummet after sunset; layering helps maintain comfort during the outdoor shoot.
Use a headlamp with a red light
Preserves night vision while adjusting camera settings in darkness.
Plan for late start times
From March to May, the Milky Way appears after midnight, so be ready for late-night hours.
Wide-angle lens
Captures expansive night sky scenes with natural arches as foreground interest.
Sturdy tripod
Required for long-exposure shots to keep your camera steady.
Warm layered clothing
Maintains comfort during cold desert nights.
spring;summer;fall;winter
Headlamp with red light
Helps you see without spoiling night vision during photography setup.