Exploring Arches National Park in Utah

Arches National Park in Moab, Utah

Exploring Arches National Park

If you are lucky to be in Moab, Utah, the perfect spot to spend the day is the red-rock paradise of Arches National Park! Nestled in the heart of Utah, this geological masterpiece boasts over 2,000 natural stone arches, towering pinnacles, and breathtaking vistas. Here are some tips to have an unforgettable experience. Enjoy a fabulous day exploring Arches National Park in Utah!

Timing is Everything

Arches National Park can have extreme temperatures, so plan your visit wisely. The best times to explore are during the spring and fall when the weather is mild, and the crowds are more manageable. You may want to avoid the scorching summer heat and unpredictable winter conditions. We traveled here at the end of November during the week of Thanksgiving, and the weather was in the low 50’s most days. There were not huge crowds and all restaurants were open.

Timed Entry Permit

In order to enter Arches National Park from April 1 to October 31, you must have a timed entry permit. Make sure to reserve your timed-entry ticket as soon as it becomes available or there’s a chance you may not get in. They give you a detailed map when you pay.

Arches National Park Scenic Drive

Arches National Park Scenic Drive is the main road that runs through the park. This stunning drive is approximately 19 miles long one-way. The drive is a loop, so you exit where you enter.  In case you are unsure if you should stop at a certain spot, you can always skip it and decide if you want to do it on the way out. Depending on what time of day you go, there will probably be a line to get in.  They label the wait time so you’ll know how long it will be before you get in.

Arches National Park in Moab, Utah

Let Me Show You Some of our Favorite Spots:

Park Avenue Viewpoint

As a first stop, this is actually one of the most breathtaking views of some massive rock formations, so don’t miss it!

Arches National Park in Moab, Utah

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A Drive on the Kancamagus Highway

New England is all about nature and simple pleasures.  The Kancamagus Highway (known to locals as ‘The Kanc’) is a gorgeous scenic drive along Rt 112 in New Hampshire.  People flock to this road, especially in summer and fall.  The 35-mile drive will take you from Conway to Lincoln through beautiful spots that will draw you out of your car to take pictures.  The word “highway” is misleading since it is more of a 2-lane road that winds back and forth next to a river bed, with mountains surrounding it and trees creating a canopy above you. 

Here are some highlights of the Kancamagus Highway:

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Castle in the Clouds

cast1

New Hampshire has many special places to view the colorful change of foliage.  At Castle in the Clouds, in Moultonborough, you will be transported back to the early 1900’s to the home of Thomas Plant.  However, do not rush straight up to the castle, take your time and make a few stops along the way. 

What is the first stop? Well…

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Mackworth Island…Our Little Secret in Maine

Macworth Island, Falmouth, Maine www.mytravelingkids.com

I can’t believe I’m sharing this place because it is one of our favorite secrets in Maine.  My daughter didn’t want me to share it.  Her exact words were, “Mom…It’s like sharing where Smurf Village is.  You don’t want everyone to know!” It is one of those places that you go to escape all the craziness of life and just BE… be part of nature, be surrounded by views, and be in the moment.  Mackworth Island is about 100 acres and is connected to Falmouth, Maine by a causeway.  The island is home to Governor Baxter School for the Deaf but you are not allowed to go on the campus.  There are two main things that draw you here…nature and fairies.

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