Panorama Point

Drive-up overlook for big views and dark-sky stargazing
Panorama Point, Arches National Park
InsideArches National Park

Overview

A quick, rewarding pullout on the main park road, Panorama Point serves up exactly what the name promises—big, sweeping views without a hike. It’s often quieter than the headline arches, making it a handy reset between busier stops.

What You'll See

  • La Sal Mountains on the horizon, often snow-dusted in cooler months.
  • The Fiery Furnace’s maze of fins and spires, plus distant views toward Devils Garden.
  • A full 360-degree desert panorama—great for situational awareness of the park’s layout.

Why Stop Here

If you want big scenery with minimal effort, this is it. It’s also singled out as an excellent dark-sky viewing area, so you can chase sunset colors and then hang around for stars without committing to a long night hike.

Facilities

  • Paved parking (room for autos and larger vehicles), short sidewalks to viewpoints.
  • Picnic tables, including some shaded seating/benches—an easy picnic stop with a view.
  • Vault toilet; no running water, food, or stores.

Stargazing

Rangers sometimes hold night-sky programs here, and even on your own the conditions can be superb—open horizons, limited light pollution, and space to spread out. Bring a tripod and a red-light flashlight to preserve night vision.

Wildlife

This is a developed area, but you may spot hardy desert regulars—lizards sunning on rocks and ravens riding thermals—especially in warm daylight hours.

Best Time to Visit

  • Late afternoon to sunset for warm, photogenic light.
  • After dark for stargazing; arrive early if a program is scheduled.
  • Midday in summer can be harsh, hot, and windy—plan a quick stop rather than a linger.
  • Weekdays are typically quieter than weekends.

Pros

  • Wide-open views of the La Sals, Fiery Furnace, and Devils Garden
  • One of the park’s best stargazing spots
  • Drive-up stop with parking and picnic tables

Cons

  • No water or services beyond basic facilities
  • Little shade and often windy/exposed

Tips

  • Bring your own water—there’s none available at the pullout.
  • Stay for dusk into night; use a red-light flashlight for stargazing.
  • Wind can whip across the open hill—pack a light layer even in summer.
  • Picnic tables make this a solid lunch stop between bigger hikes.
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