From Golden Hour to Milky Way: Sunset and Night Photography in Arches National Park
Chase golden light across carved sandstone, then wait under an official Dark Sky to watch the Milky Way climb out from behind the rim. This guided tour blends short hikes, expert composition coaching, and practical instruction for shooting stars in Arches National Park.
The Experience
Before You Go
Timed Entry Permit
Arches enforces timed entry during busy months; the tour includes the permit but confirm your date and arrive early to avoid queues.
Bring a Sturdy Tripod
Night photography requires long exposures—choose a tripod rated for wind and the uneven rock surfaces you’ll use as platforms.
Red Light Headlamp
Use a headlamp with a red filter to preserve night vision and avoid disrupting other photographers’ exposures.
Hydrate and Layer
Desert temperatures swing—carry refillable water and a warm outer layer for the hours after sunset.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Salt Valley overlooks and side basins for clean horizons and dramatic salt-flat foregrounds
- •Sand Dune Arch at late-afternoon when the light wraps the small alcove without heavy crowds
Wildlife
- •Desert bighorn sheep
- •Prairie falcon or red-tailed hawk
Conservation Note
Arches is an International Dark Sky Park—minimizing light pollution helps protect nocturnal wildlife and preserves night-sky viewing; stay on trails and pack out waste.
The area received federal protection as a monument in 1929 and became Arches National Park in 1971, formalizing access while preserving fragile formations.
Photographer's Notes
- • Windows Section or Turret Arch for wide foregrounds
- • Delicate Arch viewpoint for silhouette compositions
- • Salt Valley overlooks for uninterrupted Milky Way horizons
What to Bring
TripodEssential
Steady long exposures and star-stack sequences demand a stable tripod.
Headlamp (red mode)Essential
Hands-free light for moving between compositions and adjusting camera gear without ruining night vision.
Wide-aperture lens (14–35mm)Essential
A fast, wide lens captures expansive skies and foreground detail at night.
Insulated layers and wind shellEssential
Temperatures fall quickly after sunset; pack warm layers even in summer for late-night shoots.
Common Questions
Do I need a permit to enter Arches for this tour?
Timed entry permits are required during busy months; the tour includes the permit, so you don’t need to buy one separately.
Can beginners join if they don’t know camera settings?
Yes—guides provide hands-on help with composition and camera settings from golden hour through night shooting.
What about the Milky Way timing?
Visibility depends on the time of year; the galactic core is best from late spring through early fall, but in April–May it often rises after midnight.
How long are the hikes?
Expect short walks, generally under a half-mile each, with some uneven terrain and light scrambling on rock slabs.
Will I need to drive my own car?
The guide’s vehicle fits four passengers with gear; additional guests follow in their own cars and should be prepared to navigate park roads at night.
What happens in bad weather?
Tours are canceled in unsafe conditions (high winds, storms); the cancellation policy allows a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours prior.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6–8 hours
Location
Moab, Utah
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Light aerobic fitness; able to walk short distances on uneven rock and stand for long exposures.
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