Exploring Arches National Park With Kids: Hiking Trails, Must-See Places, and Fun Activities
Arches National Park is a spectacular natural wonder located in southeastern Utah. Known for its stunning red rock formations and over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, the park is a must-visit destination for families with kids. In this post, we'll introduce you to Arches National Park, including its history and unique features, as well as highlight some of the best hiking trails for kids, must-see places, and other fun activities that families can enjoy in the area.
History of Arches National Park
Arches National Park was established in 1971 and covers over 76,000 acres of land. The park is located in the Colorado Plateau, an area of the United States that is known for its unique geological formations, including sandstone arches, mesas, and canyons.
The first people to live in the area were the ancestral Puebloans, who inhabited the region between 1500 BCE and 1300 CE. They were followed by the Ute and Paiute Native American tribes, who used the area for hunting and gathering.
In the 1800s, European explorers began to explore the area, and in the early 1900s, the first roads were built. The park was established in 1971 to protect the unique natural and cultural resources of the area.
Hiking Trails for Kids
Arches National Park has many hiking trails that are perfect for families with kids of all ages. Here are some of the best hiking trails for kids:
Balanced Rock Trail: This easy, 0.3-mile trail leads to Balanced Rock, one of the park's most famous formations. Kids will love seeing the massive, 3,600-ton boulder perched on a narrow pedestal.
Double Arch Trail: This 0.5-mile trail leads to two massive arches that are connected at their base. The trail is easy and offers plenty of opportunities for kids to climb on the sandstone formations.
Park Avenue Trail: This 1.8-mile trail winds through a stunning canyon, with towering sandstone walls on either side. The trail is relatively easy, but some sections may be steep for younger kids.
Sand Dune Arch Trail: This 0.3-mile trail leads to a secluded sandstone arch, with a sandy area that's perfect for kids to play in. The trail is easy and great for families with younger children.
Delicate Arch Trail: This 3-mile round-trip hike is more challenging, but it's worth it for the stunning views of Delicate Arch, one of the most famous arches in the park. The trail can be steep and rocky in places, so it's best for older kids and those with hiking experience.
Must-See Places for Kids
Arches National Park has many incredible formations and landmarks that are a must-see for families with kids. Here are some of the top spots to visit:
Delicate Arch: As mentioned above, Delicate Arch is one of the most famous arches in the park and is a must-see for visitors. The arch is massive and stunning, and the hike to get there offers incredible views of the surrounding area.
Landscape Arch: Landscape Arch is the longest arch in the park, with a span of 290 feet. The arch is located in the Devil's Garden area of the park and can be reached via a relatively easy hiking trail.
Fiery Furnace: The Fiery Furnace is a maze-like area of the park that's made up of narrow canyons and towering sandstone walls. Visitors can explore the area on a ranger-led tour, which is a great option for families with kids. The tours are informative and offer a unique perspective on the geology and ecology of the park.
Windows Section: The Windows Section is a collection of massive arches and rock formations that are easy to access and explore. Kids will love climbing on the rocks and exploring the area, and the views of the surrounding landscape are breathtaking.
Devils Garden: Devils Garden is a stunning area of the park that features a collection of arches, including Landscape Arch and Double O Arch. The area is also home to a campground, making it a great place for families to spend the night and explore the park.
Other Fun Activities for Kids
In addition to hiking and exploring the park's stunning formations, there are many other fun activities for kids in the Arches National Park area. Here are some ideas:
Horseback Riding: Many companies in the area offer horseback riding tours that allow families to explore the surrounding landscape in a unique and exciting way.
Rock Climbing: For families with older kids who are experienced climbers, rock climbing in the park can be a thrilling and unforgettable experience. There are many local guides and companies that offer climbing tours and lessons.
Scenic Drives: Arches National Park has many scenic drives that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The Park Avenue and Windows Section drives are both great options for families with kids.
Stargazing: Arches National Park is located in a relatively remote area, making it a great place for stargazing. On clear nights, families can see an incredible array of stars and constellations.
Dinosaur Tracks: The Moab area, which is located near Arches National Park, is home to many dinosaur tracks and fossils. Families can visit the nearby Dinosaur Tracks Museum to learn more about these prehistoric creatures and see real dinosaur tracks up close.
Arches National Park is a stunning and unique destination that offers something for families with kids of all ages. With its incredible sandstone formations, must-see landmarks, and numerous hiking trails and fun activities, it's a must-visit for any family planning a trip to the southwest United States. Whether you're exploring the park on foot, horseback, or by car, there's no shortage of incredible sights and experiences to be had in this unforgettable natural wonder.