Arches National Park vs Canyonlands National Park
These neighboring Utah parks offer complementary experiences. Arches is compact and famous for its namesake stone arches, perfect for a day trip. Canyonlands is vast and wild, carved by the Colorado and Green Rivers into a maze of canyons.
Utah
1971
76,679 acres
1.8 million
$30/vehicle
4,085 - 5,653 ft
High
Utah
1964
337,598 acres
911,000
$30/vehicle
3,700 - 7,200 ft
Moderate
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Arches National Park | Canyonlands National Park |
|---|---|---|
| Best Time to Visit | April-May, September-October | April-May, September-October |
| Top Highlights | Delicate Arch, Landscape Arch, Windows Section | Island in the Sky, Mesa Arch, Grand View Point |
| Main Activities | Hiking, Photography, Stargazing | Hiking, 4x4 driving, Mountain biking |
| Crowd Level | High | Moderate |
| Entry Fee | $30/vehicle | $30/vehicle |
| Nearest Airport | Grand Junction (GJT) - 110 miles | Grand Junction (GJT) - 110 miles |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- + Over 2,000 natural arches
- + Manageable size
- + Iconic photo opportunities
- + Near Moab amenities
Cons
- - Timed entry often required
- - Crowded at Delicate Arch
- - Hot in summer
- - Limited shade
Pros
- + Vast wilderness feeling
- + Less crowded
- + Multiple distinct districts
- + Excellent for 4x4 adventures
Cons
- - Very spread out
- - Requires more time
- - Districts not connected
- - Less iconic than Arches
Best For
Arches National Park is Best For:
Canyonlands National Park is Best For:
Do both if you can - they're only 30 minutes apart. If choosing one, Arches is better for first-timers and photographers, while Canyonlands rewards adventurous travelers seeking solitude.
Choose Arches National Park if...
Choose Arches if you want to see iconic stone arches, have limited time, or prefer a more structured park experience with established trails and viewpoints.
Choose Canyonlands National Park if...
Choose Canyonlands if you seek adventure, have a 4x4 vehicle, want to escape crowds, or prefer vast wilderness over concentrated attractions.
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