In summer (June through September) temperatures at Arches may exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Winter (December through February) sees temperatures dropping below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures may range 50 degrees in a 24-hour period. The most comfortable times of year to visit the park are spring and fall. Temperatures then are more reasonable, and bugs are less prevalent.

Arches is a desert, which means one thing: very dry! Carry drinking water at all times.

A notable exception to the dearth of moisture in Arches is the unpredictable flash flooding that can send deluges rushing down the park's canyons with little advance warning. Be sure to check with park rangers before undertaking backcountry hikes to learn if there is danger of flash-flooding on your chosen route and how to deal with emergency situations. Flash floods can be fatal and should be taken very seriously.

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