Arches Road Construction Update

My last trip to Moab and The Arches National Park was cut short because of the 7 pm park closing time. We here at the radio station receive regular updates from the National Parks Service on the ongoing road construction. Here is the latest info.

I had a new hire in town from North Carolina. I wanted her to experience as much of the cool stuff around the area as possible in the limited time we had that weekend. It doesn't get much cooler than Arches National Park. Because of a prior engagement, we couldn't head to Utah until Sunday afternoon. I had planned to make the hike to the Delicate Arch. "Don't forget the park closes at seven" said the Ranger as we entered. So much for being at the Delicate arch at sunset.

Don't let what happened to me, happen to you. Plan ahead as the ongoing road construction project continues throughout the summer. Construction crews are working along the entire 26-mile stretch of roads through the park. Most of the construction takes place at night and that's why the park's closed from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. Sunday through Thursday. You're good on Friday or Saturday evenings.

The road construction project is currently in the "Devils Garden" phase. Through June 3rd Devils Garden road, parking lot, and trails are closed day and night. All vehicles must turn around at Sand Dune Arch trailhead. Once that's complete, the Firey Furnace area and hiking routes and Salt Valley Overlook will be closed. For the upcoming Memorial Day weekend, the park will be open from 7 am Friday, May 26 through 7 pm Tuesday, May 30.

This summer the park reminds visitors of the followings...

• Expect driving delays and road, trail, and area closures.
• Trails including Devils Garden, Fiery Furnace, and The Windows could close for up to four weeks for each area.
• Because the construction timeline is subject to frequent change, the park cannot offer advance reservations for ranger-led hikes. Instead, they will sell all hike tickets in person at Arches Visitor Center.