Milky Way Photography in Arches National Park — Night Sky Photo Tour from Moab
Photograph the Milky Way from selected vantage points inside Arches National Park with an experienced guide. Learn camera settings, composition with arches as foregrounds, and practical night-sky techniques on a small-group outing from Moab.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring a spare battery and memory card
Long exposures and cold nights drain batteries quickly—carry at least one fully charged spare and extra storage for RAW files.
Use a red headlamp
A red setting preserves night vision and prevents light pollution in your frames; avoid white beams when composing shots.
Dress in insulating layers
Desert nights can plunge far below daytime temperatures—pack a warm jacket and hat even after warm evenings.
Hydrate and snack beforehand
Carry water and a small snack; the tour includes bottled water and trail mix but having your own helps during long exposures.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Courthouse Towers viewpoint for clean silhouettes and easy access at night
- •Salt Valley Overlook—lower visitor density with expansive horizon lines for Milky Way shoots
Wildlife
- •Coyote
- •Desert cottontail
Conservation Note
Arches is recognized for its dark-sky value—minimize artificial light, stay on durable surfaces, and pack out all trash to protect nocturnal habitats.
The area was set aside as a national monument in 1929 and redesignated Arches National Park in 1971; Indigenous groups long used these lands for travel and resources.
What to Bring
DSLR or mirrorless camera (full-frame recommended)Essential
A camera capable of high-ISO performance and manual exposure control is necessary to capture the Milky Way.
Sturdy tripodEssential
Long exposures require absolute stability to keep stars sharp and foregrounds aligned.
Headlamp with red lightEssential
Red light preserves night vision and minimizes stray light in photos and other guests' shots.
Insulating jacket and beanie
Night temperatures can fall quickly; a warm layer makes waiting between exposures comfortable.
Common Questions
Do I need my own camera to join the tour?
Yes—participants should bring a DSLR or mirrorless camera capable of manual settings; some recent phones may work but results vary.
When is the Milky Way visible in Arches?
Visibility depends on the season and moon phase; the galactic core is best visible in spring through fall with peak visibility after astronomical twilight and on moonless nights.
How strenuous is the tour?
The tour involves short hikes over uneven sandstone and sand at night—moderate fitness is recommended, and stable footwear is advisable.
Can beginners learn on this tour?
Yes—guides provide a crash course on settings, composition, and tripod technique, but basic camera familiarity speeds up learning.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3–4 hours
Location
Moab, Utah
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
You should be comfortable walking short distances (up to a mile) on uneven desert terrain at night and standing for extended exposures.
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