Arches Timed Entry
From April 1 through October 31, 2024, daytime visitors to Arches National Park are required to have a timed entry ticket to enter the park. Reservations open three months in advance.
More information at go.nps.gov/archesticket.
One of the primary highlights along Kane Creek Road, Moonflower Canyon, is about three miles in (well within the pavement’s bounds). Moonflower is just about as magical as its name connotes. A lush green little side-canyon oasis carved into the surrounding red rock bluffs, Moonflower is the site of some amazing remnants of ancient Native American life. The place is shaded, and is naturally cooled by a spring-fed creek, so it’s easy to understand why humans have sought this spot out for thousands of years.
To really let the wonder sink in, you might consider camping in Moonflower’s sandy little walk-in campground (campsites limited — fee required). But even if you’re simply passing through, there are a few things not to miss — namely the sprawling petroglyphs near the mouth of the canyon. You can easily find the large rock panel covered with ancient art carved and chipped into the rock’s surface.
Another highlight of Moonflower is the reconstruction of an ancient Native American ladder used to ascend the area’s rocky cliffs. The ladder is tucked away to the left of the petroglyph panel in a tall crevice in the rock. Kids especially love exploring how cleverly wedged wooden rungs can support a person’s weight and provide a way to ascend the rock.
Those up for a little more exploration will appreciate the short one-mile hike into Moonflower’s upper reaches. Walking through the lush desert plants and Cottonwood trees, you’ll finally arrive at the peaceful little spring that feeds Moonflower’s magic.
After exploring this canyon to your heart’s desire, head further down Kane Creek Road to check out multiple trailheads including the famed Amasa Back mountain biking trail, the Ice Cream Parlor climbing area or make the drive to Hurrah Pass.
GPS Coordinates: 38.557851, -109.584056
To really let the wonder sink in, you might consider camping in Moonflower’s sandy little walk-in campground (campsites limited — fee required). But even if you’re simply passing through, there are a few things not to miss — namely the sprawling petroglyphs near the mouth of the canyon. You can easily find the large rock panel covered with ancient art carved and chipped into the rock’s surface.
Another highlight of Moonflower is the reconstruction of an ancient Native American ladder used to ascend the area’s rocky cliffs. The ladder is tucked away to the left of the petroglyph panel in a tall crevice in the rock. Kids especially love exploring how cleverly wedged wooden rungs can support a person’s weight and provide a way to ascend the rock.
Those up for a little more exploration will appreciate the short one-mile hike into Moonflower’s upper reaches. Walking through the lush desert plants and Cottonwood trees, you’ll finally arrive at the peaceful little spring that feeds Moonflower’s magic.
After exploring this canyon to your heart’s desire, head further down Kane Creek Road to check out multiple trailheads including the famed Amasa Back mountain biking trail, the Ice Cream Parlor climbing area or make the drive to Hurrah Pass.
GPS Coordinates: 38.557851, -109.584056
