Getting to Arches National Park
Arches National Park sits in UT, United States, with Moab the nearest town of any size — about 7.5 mi (12 km) out, or roughly 20 min of driving.
Arches National Park does not gate the entrance itself. Specific roads, hikes, or tours still need a permit or timed ticket.
Drive times from Arches National Park
Arches National Park sits close enough to Canyonlands National Park, Capitol Reef National Park, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, and Mesa Verde National Park that one drive from home can cover more than one park.
| Park | Apart | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| Canyonlands National Park | 38.5 mi (61.9 km) | 1 hr 18 min |
| Capitol Reef National Park | 92.7 mi (149 km) | 2 hr 39 min |
| Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park | 100 mi (161 km) | 2 hr 49 min |
| Mesa Verde National Park | 119 mi (192 km) | 3 hr 16 min |
Towns to base yourself in
| Town | Distance | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| Moab | 7.5 mi (12 km) | 20 min |
| Monticello | 57.2 mi (92.1 km) | 1 hr 48 min |
| Blanding | 73.1 mi (118 km) | 2 hr 11 min |
| East Carbon City | 75.1 mi (121 km) | 2 hr 14 min |
| Castle Dale | 86.1 mi (139 km) | 2 hr 29 min |
| Huntington | 87.2 mi (140 km) | 2 hr 31 min |
| Orangeville | 88.2 mi (142 km) | 2 hr 32 min |
| Ferron | 88.8 mi (143 km) | 2 hr 33 min |
How to read these numbers
Distances are straight-line between the town and the park centre. Drive estimates add a road factor and an average speed, which is close enough for planning but wrong wherever mountains, ferries, or seasonal closures are involved.
Inside a large park, getting from the entrance to the part you came to see can add another hour or more.
Region pages
Common questions
What is the closest town to Arches National Park?
Moab, about 7.5 mi (12 km) away — roughly 20 min of driving.
Where should I stay when visiting Arches National Park?
The practical bases are Moab, Monticello, and Blanding — all within a reasonable drive of the park.