Arches National Park in January

Are you planning a trip to Arches National Park in January while visiting utah in January? This guide covers everything you need to know about exploring Arches in January.

While January can be a stunning time to visit, it’s also one of the coldest months, and snow or ice can impact trail conditions. Some trails may be closed or challenging to navigate due to icy paths or falling ice.

If you decide to visit Arches National Park in January, make sure to dress warmly, bring proper gear like traction devices for your boots in case of snow or ice, and prepare for potential limitations on hiking certain trails.

a large rock formation with two arches in it, and snow on the ground

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Arches National Park Weather in January

January in Arches National Park, Utah, can be chilly, making it one of the coldest months of the year, though December is typically colder. Daytime temperatures average around 43°F (6°C), but highs can occasionally reach 54°F (12°C). At night, temperatures drop significantly, averaging 24°F (-4°C) but can fall as low as 8°F (-22°C).

In January, sunrise at Arches National Park is around 7:36 AM at the start of the month and shifts to 7:25 AM by the end. Sunset moves from 5:07 PM at the beginning of January to 5:38 PM by month’s end. This provides between 9 and a half and 10 and a half hours of daylight, which still gives you plenty of time to explore the park.

On average, Arches experiences about seven days of rain or snow in January. Shaded areas that receive little sunlight often keep ice, snow, or mud, for longer, which can make some trails impassable. Be sure to check trail conditions at the visitor center when you arrive to ensure a safe visit.

Is January a good time to visit Arches National Park

January can be a great time to visit Arches National Park if you want to avoid the crowds, as it’s month of the year with the fewest visitors. However, keep in mind that January is also one of the coldest months, and some trails may be closed or difficult to navigate due to icy or snowy conditions.

If you’re planning to hike popular trails like Delicate Arch or Devil’s Garden, be prepared for the possibility that weather conditions might make them inaccessible.

Do I need a Timed Entry Ticket for Arches in January?

No, the timed entry system is only in effect from April 1 to October 31. If you’re visiting in January, you won’t need to apply for a ticket in advance.

Camping in Arches in January

You can camp at Arches National Park in January at the Devils Garden Campground, located within the park. It is the only campground within the park and in January it is on a first come first served basis.

Each campsite provides space for a tent or RV, a picnic table, and access to a fire ring. Sites cost $25 per night. Restrooms are available on-site, but there are no shower facilities in the campground. Moab, the nearest town, offers additional amenities such as supermarkets and restaurants and is around an hour’s drive from the campsite.

How many people visit Arches National Park in January

January is the quietest month of the year to visit Arches National Park, with significantly fewer visitors compared to the peak summer months. In January 2024 there were only 28,000 visitors, while May 2024, the busiest month, welcomed 196,000 people.

Hiking Arches in January

Hiking in Arches National Park in January can be a peaceful and enjoyable experience thanks to the lack of crowds as it’s the quietest month of the year. However, whether trails will be open can be affected by winter weather, with some paths closed or icy depending on conditions.

If you plan to hike trails like Delicate Arch or Devil’s Garden, prepare for icy or snow-packed sections, especially in shaded areas. Proper winter gear, such as crampons, are essential to ensure safety on slippery surfaces. Many of the shorter or lower-elevation trails, such as The Windows or Balanced Rock, are typically accessible in January no matter the weather and offer stunning winter scenery to enjoy.

Hikes to enjoy during winter that are normally open are:

Delicate Arch Trail – Though this can be very slippery if it is icy or it has been snowing
The Windows and Turret Arch
Double Arch Trail
Devils Garden Trail – the full loop might not be possible if there is ice or there has been snow but you should be able to hike as far as Landscape Arch
Park Avenue Trail
Sand Dune Arch Trail

Where to stay near Arches in January

If you’re visiting Arches National Park in January, Moab is the best place to stay. Located just minutes from the park’s entrance, Moab offers a variety of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. From cozy motels and budget-friendly hotels to charming bed-and-breakfasts, there’s something for everyone.

For those seeking a more adventurous experience, camping is also an option, though winter conditions require extra preparation. The Devils Garden Campground within the park is open year-round. Alternatively, Moab’s RV parks and private campgrounds offer additional options with better amenities than the campsite within the park, including showers and electricity, for those traveling with an RV or camper.

What to wear in Arches National Park in January

When visiting Arches National Park in January, be sure to wear plenty of layers and warm clothing, as early mornings and evenings are extremely cold.

If you plan to hike popular trails, especially those at higher elevations like Delicate Arch or Devil’s Garden, it’s highly recommended to bring traction devices to attach to your shoes for added traction. Snow and ice often linger in shaded areas, making these trails slippery and potentially hazardous without proper gear.

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