05/04/2026
Flying into Salt Lake City for a Utah road trip? Arches National Park is only 4 hours away โ and the drive there is half the fun. ๐๐๏ธ
One of the best stops along the route is Fifth Water Hot Springs, about an hour south of SLC. It's a 4.6-mile out-and-back hike to natural hot springs right along the river โ the perfect way to break up the drive before heading into the desert.
If you have a little extra time, Goblin Valley State Park is worth the detour. The landscape looks like another planet and the slot canyon hike there is one of the more unique trails in Utah.
From there it's a straight shot to Moab and Arches, where the real highlight is getting up before sunrise to hike to Delicate Arch before the crowds arrive. It makes a huge difference โ both for parking and for having the trail mostly to yourself.
I have a full road trip guide on the blog with a downloadable map, where to stay, and what to do once you're in the park. Are you planning a Utah trip this year? ๐
https://everywherewithclaire.com/salt-lake-city-to-arches-national-park/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social-media&utm_campaign=salt-lake-city-to-arches&utm_content=arches-national-park
Salt Lake City to Arches National Park road trip itinerary, including the best stops on the direct route as well as detours to Park City and Capitol Reef National Park.