Fiery Furnace Viewpoint Arches National Park
Explore a natural sandstone labyrinth of towering fins and narrow passages in Arches National Park. A challenging hike or a stunning viewpoint awaits.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Fiery Furnace Viewpoint Arches National Park
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a natural sandstone labyrinth of towering fins and narrow passages in Arches National Park. A challenging hike or a stunning viewpoint awaits.
"It's the most fun you'll have in Arches National Park, navigating a sandstone maze!"
Book Permits Early! :ticket:
Fiery Furnace permits are limited and sell out fast. Book online a week in advance to avoid disappointment.
Guided Tours Recommended :walking:
If you're nervous about getting lost, a ranger-guided tour is a great option. They know the maze like the back of their hand!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fiery Furnace Viewpoint
East side of the parking lot
A short, easy trail leads to a spectacular overlook of the sandstone maze. Perfect for a quick, breathtaking glimpse.
Sandstone Labyrinth Hike
Fiery Furnace trail (permit/tour required)
Navigate narrow passages and towering fins in this challenging, yet rewarding, natural maze. Getting 'lost' is part of the fun!
Sunset Glow
Fiery Furnace area
Witness the sandstone walls ignite with a fiery glow as the sun sets, giving the area its iconic name.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Permits & Guided Tours
Best Time for Fiery Furnace
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Permits Early! :ticket:
Fiery Furnace permits are limited and sell out fast. Book online a week in advance to avoid disappointment.
Guided Tours Recommended :walking:
If you're nervous about getting lost, a ranger-guided tour is a great option. They know the maze like the back of their hand!
Hydration is Key :droplet:
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. The desert sun is intense, and you'll need it for the hike.
Wear Sturdy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Expect to scramble over rocks and navigate uneven terrain. Good hiking boots or shoes with excellent grip are essential.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Permits Early! :ticket:
Fiery Furnace permits are limited and sell out fast. Book online a week in advance to avoid disappointment.
Guided Tours Recommended :walking:
If you're nervous about getting lost, a ranger-guided tour is a great option. They know the maze like the back of their hand!
Hydration is Key :droplet:
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. The desert sun is intense, and you'll need it for the hike.
Wear Sturdy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Expect to scramble over rocks and navigate uneven terrain. Good hiking boots or shoes with excellent grip are essential.
Viewpoint is Accessible :camera_with_flash:
Don't have a permit? The viewpoint offers stunning vistas without needing special access.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the unique, maze-like experience of hiking the Fiery Furnace, calling it a highlight of their Arches National Park visit. The stunning sandstone formations and the challenge of navigating the labyrinth are frequently praised. However, some find the hike strenuous and easy to get lost in, emphasizing the need for permits and ample water.
"To reach this location follow the Arches National Park Road, until you reach the turn-off for Fiery Furnace Viewpoint on the east side of the road. The road will take you to a tear-dropped-shaped parking lot that is quite busy most of the time and finding space can be difficult sometimes. Inside the loop of the parking lot, you will find a standard vault toilet and the trail to the viewpoint is located on the east side of the parking lot. Take the short 0.2-mile trail to the viewpoint to see the spectacular and unique landscape of Fiery Furnace. At the time of our visit, we were not allowed to hike the trail, which requires a permit and U.S. Park Services guide. We were still able to enjoy an extraordinary view of the towering Entrada Sandstone fins and deep fissures, which make up this stunning landscape."
Thomas B
"We stopped at the Fiery Furnace Viewpoint there is a nice size parking area and restroom facilities. From the parking lot you can take an easy .2-mile out-and-back trail to the viewpoint which takes about 5 min to complete. The viewpoint offers some spectacular views of the area. The Fiery Furnace refers to a natural labyrinth of narrow passages between towering sandstone walls. At around sunset, it is said, that the light makes the rock faces glow like a wood-fired furnace. Which is how this area got its name. You must take a guided tour or have a permit to hike this area as it is easy to get lost."
ray weithman
"We visited with family and it remains a highligbt of our visit to the area. We did an unguided tour whi h was fun because it was a bit like a maze. Incredible rock formations, valleys, paths, cul-de-sacs, vantage points.
If you like exploring then this is the place to be.
Would suggest ewely morning to avoid the hear of midday son.
And take plenty of water!
The walk is moderate and you should give yourself 2-4 hrs depending on how lost you want to get."
Themevify
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
To reach the Fiery Furnace Viewpoint, follow the Arches National Park Road until you see the turn-off for Fiery Furnace Viewpoint on the east side. The road leads to a tear-dropped-shaped parking lot.
Yes, there is a parking area at the Fiery Furnace Viewpoint, but it can get quite busy, especially during peak times. Finding a space might be challenging.
No, you cannot drive through the Fiery Furnace itself. The main access is via the viewpoint or by hiking the permitted trail. Other scenic drives in Moab include Potash Road and Shafer Switchbacks. +1
The road to the Fiery Furnace Viewpoint is paved and well-maintained. However, other off-roading trails in the Moab area, like Hells Revenge and Fins N' Things, are for high-clearance 4x4 vehicles.
Public transport options are very limited in Arches National Park. It's best to have your own vehicle or arrange for a shuttle service.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, hiking within the Fiery Furnace labyrinth requires a permit or participation in a ranger-guided tour. Permits are limited and often sell out.
Permits for the Fiery Furnace can be obtained online through the Arches National Park website or at the park's visitor center. It's highly recommended to book them in advance, as they are issued on a first-come, first-served basis.
Yes, ranger-guided tours are available for the Fiery Furnace. These tours offer a safe and informative way to explore the maze. Check the park's official website for schedules and booking information.
Permit fees and tour costs can vary. Check the official Arches National Park website for the most current pricing information.
Absolutely! The Fiery Furnace Viewpoint is accessible via a short, easy trail from the parking lot and does not require a permit. It offers stunning views of the area.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The Fiery Furnace hike is a challenging, maze-like experience involving scrambling over rocks, squeezing through narrow passages, and navigating between towering sandstone fins. It's not for those with a fear of heights or enclosed spaces.
The time needed for the Fiery Furnace hike can vary greatly depending on your pace and how much you explore. Allow 2-4 hours, or even longer if you enjoy getting a bit lost in the maze.
The Fiery Furnace hike can be challenging for young children or those with mobility issues due to the scrambling and narrow passages. The viewpoint is a more accessible option for families.
Bring plenty of water, snacks, sturdy hiking shoes with good grip, sunscreen, and a hat. A map or GPS device is also advisable if you're going unguided.
Early mornings offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. Sunset provides a beautiful glow on the sandstone, but be aware of park closing times and potential closures.
📸 📸 Photography
The Fiery Furnace Viewpoint offers excellent panoramic shots. For those hiking the trail, every turn presents unique angles of the fins, arches, and narrow passages.
Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, provides the most dramatic lighting, making the sandstone glow. Midday can be harsh, but offers clear views of the formations.
Drone usage is generally restricted in all U.S. National Parks, including Arches. Check the park's official regulations regarding drone photography before your visit.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the formations. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details within the maze. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions during sunset.
The designated Fiery Furnace Viewpoint is a prime spot. When hiking, keep an eye out for elevated positions or openings that offer compelling compositions of the sandstone fins.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Families can enjoy the impressive scenery and learn about the unique geology of Arches National Park. Remember to bring plenty of water and sun protection for everyone. Solo Travelers & Nervous Hikers
If you prefer to go independently, ensure you obtain a permit well in advance and carry a reliable map or GPS device. The Fiery Furnace Viewpoint is also a great, low-stress option for solo visitors who want to see the formations without the commitment of a strenuous hike. Photography Enthusiasts
+1 If you have a permit, the hike itself presents endless possibilities for unique compositions, from wide shots of the fins to intimate details of the rock formations and narrow passages. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Fiery Furnace Maze
The terrain involves scrambling over rocks, squeezing through tight spots, and descending into small canyons. It's crucial to have a good sense of direction or, preferably, a permit and a map, or join a ranger-guided tour. Key features of the Fiery Furnace include towering Entrada Sandstone fins, deep fissures, and hidden arches. The formations are a result of millions of years of erosion. The name 'Fiery Furnace' comes from the way the setting sun illuminates the rock faces, making them appear to glow.
For those who prefer not to tackle the full hike, the Fiery Furnace Viewpoint offers an accessible alternative. A short, easy trail from the parking lot leads to an overlook where you can admire the dramatic landscape without needing a permit. This viewpoint also provides vistas of Salt Valley and the La Sal Mountains.
Permits, Tours, and Access
Ranger-guided tours are an excellent option for those who want a guided experience and to learn more about the geology and history of the area. These tours are led by knowledgeable park rangers who ensure safety and provide insights into the unique environment.
The park service has experienced staffing shortages in the past, which have led to temporary closures, so it's always wise to check the official park website for the latest information on access and availability. For a quick and easy way to experience the Fiery Furnace's grandeur, the Fiery Furnace Viewpoint is highly recommended. This accessible trail requires no permit and offers stunning panoramic views of the sandstone formations. It's a great option for visitors with limited time or mobility, or those who simply want a taste of the area's beauty.
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