Arches National Park Fiery Furnace Tours

General Programs

Rangers are located throughout the park to help visitors understand the unique elements of Arches National Park. During summer months, family-oriented programs and hands-on activities are also presented each day. Check at the visitor center for more information.

Fiery Furnace Tours

Ranger-guided hikes through the Fiery Furnace are offered twice each day from March through October. These popular 3 hour hikes are considered by most to be moderately strenuous. The Fiery Furnace hike is not a casual stroll and everyone attending the walk should be aware of the nature of this hike and be properly equipped. During the hike, participants will be walking and climbing on irregular and broken sandstone, along narrow ledges above drop-offs and in loose, sometimes wet, sand. There are cracks which must be stepped over and narrow places in the rock that you must squeeze into and pull yourself up and through. In some of these places, you must hold yourself off the ground by pushing against the sandstone walls with your hands and feet. Due to the maze-like nature of the terrain, all participants are committed to completing the hike once they enter the Fiery Furnace. (View the photo gallery to better judge the hike's difficulty). All participants must wear good hiking shoes or boots that have gripping soles. No sandals or high heeled shoes are allowed. Solid ankle support and good sole tread are recommended. Each person must carry at least one quart or liter of water and a backpack to carry the water and other gear so that their hands are free to be used to navigate the terrain. Due to the tour's difficulty and length it is not recommended for children under five years of age. One adult is required for each child age six or under attending the tour. One adult is recommended for each child age seven to twelve. Parents must closely supervise children at all times during the tour.

Reservations

Due to their popularity, these hikes often fill in advance. Reservations can be made online at www.recreation.gov. Reservations may also be made in person at the visitor center, but only up to seven days in advance. Space on the walks is limited and groups of more than 15 people should split up and go on separate walks or request a special tour.

Other Options

All visitors to the Fiery Furnace are encouraged to go on the ranger-led tour, particularly for their first visit - both for their safety and to reduce impacts to the area. In order to visit the Fiery Furnace without a ranger, visitors must obtain a permit (fee charged) at the visitor center. Everyone in the group obtaining the permit is required to watch a five-minute video covering visitor safety and resource concerns. Traveling with someone already familiar with the area is highly recommended.