Arches Full Day Private Tour and Hike

Discover the Arches Full Day Private Tour and Hike in Moab

The Arches Full Day Private Tour and Hike offers a tailored exploration of one of Utah’s most iconic landscapes. Priced at $972.95 per person, this guide-led experience lasts approximately 6 to 10 hours and is perfect for those wanting a comprehensive day immersed in natural beauty. The tour departs from Moab, USA, with private transportation, ensuring a comfortable and personalized adventure.

What sets this tour apart is its flexibility and expert guidance. You can choose to focus on the desert landscapes of Arches National Park or combine it with Canyonlands. With a private guide sharing insights on geology, flora, fauna, and history, visitors gain an enriching perspective that’s hard to match. The tour’s popularity means it’s often booked 113 days in advance, reflecting its high demand among discerning travelers seeking a customized experience.

Key Points

• Private, fully customizable day exploring Arches or Canyonlands National Park
• Includes a gourmet picnic lunch catering to dietary needs
• Expert naturalist guide provides insightful commentary on geology, plants, and history
• Multiple scenic stops, including iconic arches and viewpoints
• Bypass timed entry at Arches National Park with private guidance
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle for the full day

How the Tour Begins at Moab’s Meeting Point

This full-day private tour starts at 7:30 am in Moab, with pickup included. The private nature of the experience means only your group participates, allowing for a relaxed and tailored schedule. Since the tour lasts 6 to 10 hours, the timing offers flexibility based on your interests and pace. This setup is ideal for travelers who prefer a custom itinerary without the constraints of large group tours.

The tour begins with a personalized approach, where the guide works with you to select stops and hikes most suited to your group’s preferences. Whether you want to focus heavily on specific formations or explore a broad range of sights, the guide adapts the day accordingly. Most participants find the air-conditioned vehicle offers a comfortable ride, especially important given the desert heat typical of the region.

Exploring Arches National Park with a Private Naturalist Guide

The centerpiece of this tour is a visit to Arches National Park, where the guide shares stories and insights on the park’s geological features and human history. You get to experience the red rocks at sunrise, a moment that highlights the vividness of the park’s over 2,000 arches. Unlike solo visits, this guided tour allows access to the park without the need for timed entry tickets, offering maximum flexibility.

Throughout the day, the guide points out flora and fauna, providing context to the desert environment. This site visit typically lasts about 7 hours, with plenty of opportunities to take photos, ask questions, and enjoy the scenery at your own pace. The personal guidance ensures you hit the main highlights and hidden gems alike, tailored to your interests.

Iconic Stop at the Upper Delicate Arch Viewpoint

One of the tour’s most memorable stops is the easy 3-mile hike to the Upper Delicate Arch Viewpoint. This accessible trail offers breathtaking views of Delicate Arch, one of the most recognizable sandstone formations globally. While admission to the park is not included, the guide handles the logistics, and the extra cost is optional if you wish to descend into the basin to see the arch more closely.

Travelers praise this stop for its stunning vistas and the opportunity to experience an iconic symbol of the American West. The one-hour exploration allows for plenty of time to enjoy the scenery, take photos, and learn about the arch’s formation from the guide.

Delving into the Devils Garden Loop Trail

Another highlight is the optional Devils Garden Trailhead, where you can choose to hike part or all of the 8-mile loop. This trail features several notable formations including Tunnel Arch, Pine Tree Arch, Private Arch, Dark Angel Arch, Double O Arch, Partition Arch, Navajo Arch, and Landscape Arch. Each offers a unique perspective on the park’s geological processes.

The guide’s flexibility means you can opt for a shorter walk or a more extensive hike, depending on your fitness level and interests. The one-hour stop at this trail is an opportunity to witness diverse arch formations and enjoy the desert scenery away from crowds. Note that admission to the park for this activity is not included and is paid separately if you choose to hike into specific areas.

Visiting Double Arch and the Windows Area

The tour includes a short walk through the Windows Area, where Double Arch takes center stage. This feature, with its dramatic size and shape, is one of the most photographed spots in the park. The 30-minute stop provides a chance to see Double Arch up close and explore other nearby formations.

Plus, a quick stop at Balanced Rock offers a snapshot of the park’s unique erosion patterns. These stops are designed to maximize your viewing experience with minimal time investment, making them perfect for those wanting a broad overview with photo opportunities.

Exploring Sand Dune Arch and Other Hidden Formations

The Sand Dune Arch offers a more secluded experience, where visitors can explore this hidden arch with its sandy surroundings. The 30-minute visit is suitable for those looking for a less crowded area and a chance to discover a lesser-known part of the park.

While admission for this stop is not included, the guide provides context and history, enhancing the appreciation of this quiet corner. Its position as a quiet, shaded spot makes it a calming break in the busy day of sightseeing.

Lunch and Refreshments in the Wilderness

A key feature of this tour is the included gourmet picnic lunch, served around midday. The lunch caters to all dietary restrictions and food allergies if notified in advance, making it suitable for most guests. This meal provides a relaxed setting to refuel and enjoy the scenic surroundings, whether in a designated picnic area or during a scenic stop.

The lunch is often praised for its quality and the thoughtful presentation, elevating the overall experience. For many, it’s a highlight that allows for a leisurely break amid a busy day of hiking and exploring.

End-of-Day Highlights and Optional Short Walks

The tour concludes with visits to more scenic spots and short walks, including the Balanced Rock Trail and additional viewpoints. These final stops are perfect for capturing last photos and reflecting on the day. The 30-minute duration for some of these stops keeps the day moving at a comfortable pace without feeling rushed.

Having a private guide ensures that your group can spend more time at favorite spots or skip less interesting areas, making every moment tailored to you.

Practical Details: Booking, Cancellations, and Accessibility

The tour starts at 7:30 am in Moab, with free cancellation available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. This flexibility adds peace of mind when planning your trip. The service animals are allowed, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, emphasizing its accessibility.

Since it’s a private experience, only your group participates, ensuring a comfortable and intimate environment. The air-conditioned vehicle and private transportation make the long day enjoyable, and the guide’s expertise enhances your understanding of the landscape.

Why Choose This Tour for Your Moab Adventure?

With consistent 5-star reviews, this tour is highly regarded for its knowledgeable guides—such as Chloe, Lia, and Alex—who are praised for their friendliness, adaptability, and passion for the parks. Guests appreciate the customized itineraries, delicious lunch, and the opportunity to see less crowded spots along with the main sights.

While the price may seem high, the personalized nature, expert guidance, and all-inclusive access to park entry and transportation** make this a valuable choice for those seeking a comprehensive and flexible day exploring Arches.

Customizable Experiences and Similar Tours

This private tour can be tailored to include either Arches or Canyonlands National Park, or both, depending on group interests. For travelers wanting different adventures, options include 4×4 tours and rafting trips from Moab, all offered by the same provider, Good Trip Adventures.

This flexibility allows for an unforgettable, personalized exploration of Utah’s stunning landscape, far beyond the typical sightseeing experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or those with limited mobility?
Yes, this tour is designed to be accessible for most travelers, with some stops like the Upper Delicate Arch Viewpoint being easy walks. However, more extensive hikes like the Devils Garden Loop may require a good level of fitness.

Are park entry fees included?
Yes, park entry fees are included in the tour price, allowing you to skip the hassle of timed entries and additional costs.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. The tour is private and tailored to your interests, so you can focus more on preferred sites or activities with your guide’s guidance.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

How far in advance should I book?
Given its popularity, booking at least 113 days in advance is recommended to secure your preferred date and guide.

This Arches Full Day Private Tour and Hike offers a well-rounded, flexible, and engaging way to experience Utah’s breathtaking desert scenery, guided by knowledgeable experts and enhanced by delicious food and personalized attention.