Visiting Arches National Park in November

Arches in the fall is one of the best times to go due to the moderate temperatures. But what is it like to visit Arches National Park in November?

Use our Arches National Park travel guide to get started planning your vacation! Keep reading for a list of things to do, what to pack and where to stay.

Arches National Park in November plus packing list and things to do

In November you’ll find amazing weather for enjoying outdoor activities like hiking and photography.

Use our done-for-you 1, 2, and 3-day Arches National Park itineraries to plan your dream vacation:

Arches National Park Travel Bundle
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A Photo Tour of Arches National Park

Take a visual tour through Arches National Park to see the stunning landscapes you’ll see when you visit!

Visiting Arches National Park in November

There are two words that describe visiting Arches National Park in the fall: perfect weather!

The mornings and evenings will be cold, but the daytime temperatures are just right to enjoy all the outdoor activities you’ll find at Arches: hiking, biking, climbing, photography and more!

Is November a Good Time to Visit Arches National Park?

November is our favorite month for visiting Arches National Park. The park is transitioning to the off-season so there aren’t as many visitors which is so nice!

Check out our list of best times to visit Arches National Park with information about what to expect during each season and every month of the year to decide if November is the best time for you to go to Arches.

Arches Weather in November

In November the temperatures at Arches will be about 55° high and 29° low. November is usually a dry month, but there may be rain storm here and there. You can see current weather conditions at Arches on the NPS NPS website and check weather forecasts in advance for rain.

You’ll find cold temperatures in the mornings and at night so we recommend a fleece jacket, winter hat and maybe some gloves for those early morning and late evening outings. Remember that this area of Utah is a dry environment, don’t forget lip balm and lotion!

Tips for Visiting Arches National Park in the Fall

In this video we share our tips for planning a fall vacation to Arches National Park.

Things to Do at Arches National Park in November

Check out this list of fun outdoor things to do at Arches National Park in November:

Arches Visitor Center in November

While visiting Arches National Park we love to make the visitor center our very first spot! It is open every day in the fall. Take time to talk to the park ranger and tell him things that are of interest to you and get tips and ideas on other things to do. 

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Arches Scenic Drive

The Arches National Park scenic drive is a must-do activity. It includes two spur roads and takes about 2 to 3 hours to complete. You’ll add more time if you plan to stop and take photos or hike any of the trails along the route.

The 43 mile road is paved with pullouts and parking lots perfect for any Arches National Park photography you want to do. Some of the arches and landmarks can be seen from the parking lot, or by a short walk.

Download the Arches National Park map to navigate along the scenic road to each point of interest.

Double Arch at Arches National Park

Hiking at Arches in November

Arches National Park Hiking Trails in November are awesome if you don’t mind wearing layers. Remember it’s important to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun: pack water bottles, wear sunscreen and a sunhat!

Because it’s the perfect weather for hiking, the park and trails will be busy. We always recommend getting up early to hit the trails!

We recommend you visit The Windows Area and Devil’s Garden Trail in the morning so you don’t have to fight the crowds. Delicate Arch is awesome at sunset for photography, but it may be impossible to get a parking spot. You may want to hike to Delicate Arch in the morning as well!

You’ll want to plan the popular and busy hikes first thing then fit in the other shorter hikes like Sand Dune Arch, Skyline Arch and Balanced Rock during the later afternoon when parking spots open up more frequently.

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Photography at Arches in November

November is a great time for Arches National Park photography. The best times to photograph the park are sunrise and sunset. The colors are vibrant and the light creates a spectacular glow on the red rocks that cannot be missed.

CHECK OUT our 3 day Arches and Canyonlands itinerary and photography guide to capitalize on all the best places and times to take pictures in the park!

Delicate Arch at sunset might be the most famous image to photograph in the park. It will be crowded so pack your patience. And don’t forget a headlamp for the hike back to your car!

You will definitely want a fleece jacket, photographer gloves and rechargeable hand warmers for those sunrise and sunset photography outings.

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Stargazing in November at Arches

Definitely take one evening to stay after the sun set and LOOK UP! Arches National Park is internationally recognized as one of the best places for stargazing because of its remote location, accessibility, altitude and clear skies.

The slogan “Half the Park is After Dark” encourages visiting at night to simply Look up! On a clear night, the sky is literally filled with stars.

Keep in mind the milky way is NOT visible in November. But capturing a photo of a starry sky at Arches is amazing!

Arches Canyonlands guides and maps

BUY AT AMAZON: Arches and Canyonlands Guides and Maps:

Things To Do Near Arches National Park

You’ll find a ton of other places to visit in Utah that are near Arches National Park to add to your itinerary:

Where to Stay Near Arches National Park:

There are no hotels in Arches so most people stay in the nearby town of Moab. There are all types of lodging in and near Moab from budget-friendly hotels to higher-prices resorts. You’ll also find vacation rentals, a hostel, campgrounds and RV parks.

Here are a few of our favorite places to stay near Arches:

  • Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Moab – we enjoyed our stay and highly recommend this hotel due to its location close to Arches.
  • Purple Sage – our all-time favorite place to stay in Moab – walking distance to shopping, full kitchen, and only 8 units so you don’t feel lost in a large hotel. 
  • Red Cliffs Lodge – rooms up to 6 people – located 17 miles from Moab, this lodge is known for its beautiful location, winery and activities like horseback riding, fishing and more!
  • Vacation Rentals Near Arches – we really like rentals with a kitchen, washer and dryer and amenities like a swimming pool and hot tub.

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