If you plan to visit Arches National Park, you’ll need to know what to pack.
The climate and altitude in southeast Utah can be harsh if you’re not prepared with the right clothing, hydration, food, personal items and hiking gear.
We are lucky to live close enough to visit the park at various times of the year so we have a good understanding of what should be on your Arches National Park Packing List!
Click to download the summer and winter packing lists for Arches:
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ARCHES NATIONAL PARK PACKING LIST
The first thing on any packing list when you are visiting national parks in the US: National Parks Pass!
The America the Beautiful Annual Pass costs $80 and is valid for one year from the date of purchase. For the most current information on passes, reference the National Park Service website.
The pass allows two signatures so it can be shared, and the two people don’t have to be related. You will need to show photo ID each time you use the pass.
Order passes online or get them at any of these Federal Recreation Areas.
We like to BUY THE PASS AT REI because we can get it right away… and they will donate 10% of sales to the National Park Foundation.
Hiking Gear for Arches National Park
Don’t overlook the important of sturdy hiking shoes when visiting Arches National Park. Sneakers and sandals aren’t the best when walking on the slickrock at Arches.
TIP: Avoid blisters on your feet by wearing Darn Tough Socks!
Waterproof hiking boots or shoes
WINTER: Insulated boots
Darn Tough socks – the BEST socks ever – really!
Clothing to Wear at Arches National Park
Wicking is important for any clothing that touches skin. Wicking fabric pulls moisture (sweat) away from you and moves it to the fabric’s outer surface, where it can dry quickly. This type of clothing lets you break a sweat without feeling clammy or chilled.
TIP: Layers are your friend, especially if you’ll visit Arches in the winter.
Wicking, quick-drying clothing: underclothes, shirts, pants or shorts
WINTER: Insulated jacket
Bandana or buff headband
WINTER: Insulating hat
WINTER: Insulating gloves, photographer gloves
Daypack Items for Arches National Park
Hydration at Arches is so important due to the climate and altitude in the southeastern part of Utah.
READ: Hydration Basics by REI.
Lip balm – you’ll feel the dry air at Arches!
Hand lotion – your skin will be happy!
Disposable urination device & feminie hygiene products
Bags to pack out trash
Other Items to Pack for an Arches Vacation
US national parks pass – why it’s a good deal
Cell phone
Blister balm – you won’t need this if you wear Darn Tough socks (just sayin’)
Camera Equipment to Pack for a Trip to Arches
The photos you’ll take at Arches National Park will be unlike any others! Make sure you have all the camera gear necessary to capture the stunning landscape beauty of Arches!
Extra batteries
Travel Photography Tips & Gear
YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY JOURNEY FACEBOOK GROUP
This is the group for you if…
• You have a camera
• You like taking pictures
• You want to improve your photography skills
NATIONAL PARK TRAVEL PLANNING RESOURCES
Plan a Trip to Arches National Park
Travel Guide for Visiting Arches National Park
Expert’s Guide to Arches National Park Photography
Visiting Arches National Park in the Winter
Arches National Park Hiking Trails
Where to Stay in Moab Near Arches
ARCHES LODGING: $40 Coupon for Airbnb | Booking.com | VRBO
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