The Windows Section
Area Red-rock formation featuring natural window arches
Near Moab, the Windows Section in Arches National Park groups the North and South Windows and Turret Arch within short trails. Visitors favor it for sunrise and sunset photography and quick walks among large sandstone openings.
The Windows Section is a concentrated cluster of major sandstone arches in Arches National Park near Moab, Utah, known for the North Window, South Window, Turret Arch, and the nearby Double Arch.
The arches formed by long-term erosion of Entrada Sandstone, with jointing and weathering producing openings that expanded into the distinct windows and paired arches seen today. The area became a focal visitor spot as Arches National Park developed its trail and viewpoint system.
Located within Arches National Park a short drive from the city of Moab in eastern Utah, the Windows Section sits along the park road and is one of the first major arch groupings encountered by visitors entering the park.
- Easy access and short walks: A compact, family-friendly area within Arches National Park offering short, accessible trails and several major arches within a small walking circuit.
- Geology: The arches are formed in Entrada Sandstone through erosion and freeze-thaw processes common to the park's geology.
What to See #
- North and South Window: North Window and South Window - Two large, closely paired natural arches visible from a short loop trail with clear viewpoints and photographic opportunities.
- Double Arch: Double Arch - A dramatic paired arch formation nearby composed of two massive openings that share a common joint and are accessible via a short walk.
- Turret Arch: Turret Arch - A smaller nearby arch that sits close to the Windows and is often included on short walks through the area.
How to Get to The Windows Section #
The Windows Section is located within Arches National Park, about 5-10 miles north of Moab, Utah. From Moab, take US-191 north and follow park signage to the Arches entrance and visitor center; once inside, the Windows area is a short drive along the park road.
Tips for Visiting The Windows Section #
- Arrive at sunrise or late afternoon to avoid crowds and to see the arches in flattering light.
- Park at the designated Arches visitor lots-the Windows trail is short but fills quickly on peak days.
- Visit Sand Dune Arch and Turret Arch nearby; they are often overlooked by visitors who stick to the Windows viewpoint.
Best Time to Visit The Windows Section #
Spring and fall are best for comfortable hiking and stable conditions; summer mornings are workable but afternoons can be dangerously hot.
Weather & Climate near The Windows Section #
The Windows Section's climate is classified as Cold Desert - Cold Desert climate with hot summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -8°C to 35°C. Semi-arid with limited rainfall.
January
January is the coldest month with highs of 4°C and lows of -8°C. Light rainfall.
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February
February is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of -5°C. Light rainfall.
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March
March is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of -1°C. Light rainfall.
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April
April is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 3°C. Light rainfall.
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May
May is cool with highs of 25°C and lows of 8°C. Light rainfall.
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June
June is mild with highs of 31°C and lows of 13°C. The driest month with just 11 mm.
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July
July is the warmest month with highs of 35°C and lows of 16°C. Light rainfall.
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August
August is warm with highs of 34°C and lows of 16°C. Light rainfall.
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September
September is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 10°C. Light rainfall.
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October
October is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 4°C. The wettest month with 32 mm of rain.
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November
November is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of -3°C. Light rainfall.
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December
December is freezing with highs of 6°C and lows of -7°C. Light rainfall.