Arches National Park is full of striking, red sandstone formations. It is a paradise for hikers and a natural playground for kids. It is a great “carrot to dangle” in order to get your kids excited about visiting the Moab area!
While there are many trails to explore in Arches National Park, this hike stands out above the rest!
What makes a good, family hike?
In our experience, the best family hikes are those that excite and thrill people of all ages. It’s not the physical challenge or any amazing view that wins, rather the sense of fun and adventure experienced along the trail. Fiery Furnace is one trail that engages the mind, body, and entire family for the duration of the experience.
The Fiery Furnace
Fiery Furnace is a maze-like network of narrow canyons and towering sandstone formations. The hike itself is relatively easy, with gentle inclines and declines, and is suitable for families with children of all ages.
The real challenge of the Fiery Furnace is navigating the maze-like canyons which requires a sense of adventure and a willingness to explore. There are many crevaces to shimmy through. There are obstacles and minor climbs. There are narrowing canyon walls and surprising dead-ends.
The challenge of finding the next, small directional arrow and facing the next set of surprises is akin to a theme park thrill ride. Thus, the Fiery Furnace is a great hike for families who are looking for excitement and adventure while still being able to enjoy the majesty of Arches National Park.
Another reason that the Fiery Furnace is such a great family hike is because of the incredible views it offers. The towering sandstone formations are a sight to behold, and the colorful rock formations are truly breathtaking.
However, the delicate yet rugged landscape requires skills and knowledge before freedom is earned.
Is Fiery Furnace a challenging hike?
Unlike some of the more strenuous trails in Arches National Park, the Fiery Furnace is relatively easy, so families can enjoy the beauty and adventure of the hike without having to worry if their children will be able to handle the physical demands of a more strenuous trail.
There are four main challenges of hiking the Fiery Furnace:
- Size and Mobility – If anyone in your group is a very round person, they may encouter struggles shimmying through some of the crevices of the maze. Additionally, climbing, crawling, and scooting are necessary in several portions of the hike. Those with major joint issues may struggle. We did observe a multi-generational family attempting to traverse an obstacle last March. The elders became very uncomfortable and chose to turn back. It is not ideal to split your party while in this area, so please carefully consider mobility issues.
- Danger – There are a few portions of the hike wherein you will have to step or hop over deep and dangerous crevices between the rock formations. We advise holding your children’s hands. Additionally, if you have children that are not cautious, you may consider waiting to do this hike.
- Navigation – Part of the fun of Fiery Furnace is the challenge to successfully navigate its maze-like course. There are very small arrows on rocks to help guide you; however, if you are prone to high anxiety or do not enjoy these types of challenges, this may not be the hike for you.
- Acquiring a permit – The Fiery Furnace is the most popular hike in the park. It can be difficult to get a permit to access it. We suggest having several days of your trip available when trying to book.
Can you tour Fiery Furnace without a guide?
Yes. Guests may take a ranger-led hike or they may self-navigate.
Ranger-Guided Tours
Navigating Fiery Furnace with a park ranger requires a special reservation. These reservations cost $16 per person. They become available on the Recreation.gov seven days in advance of the tour. These reservations are very competitive, so be sure that you are logged in to make your request at the moment requests open!
Self-Guided Tours
Permits for the self-guided tour of Fiery Furnace may also be requested through Recreation.gov up to seven days in advance. You must make your reservation at least two days prior to your preferred date. The self-guided ticket prices are $10 per person.
These are also highly competitive, so we recommend being logged in and ready to reserve the moment they become available for your preferred date.
All hikers that will be participating, even young children, are required to go to the Arches National Park Visitor Center to watch the introductory video and pick up the hiking permit. You may do this the day prior to your hike or the day of your hike. Please double check the visitor center hours to ensure that you have plenty of time to meet these requirements.
You will approach the ranger station wherein they will confirm your reservation and ensure that your entire party is present. A ranger will then take you into a small theater and show you the video covering the hike’s rules.
Upon conclusion, the ranger will ask all members of your party a few questions to ensure that you understood and that you agree to the care practices of the Fiery Furnace.
She will then give you the printed permit which must be openly displayed at all times by one of your group members.
You will be free to access the Fiery Furnace any time during the day of your permit. We prefer to go late in the afternoon. The majority of the hike is shaded, and crowds seem to be fewer in the late afternoons.
Fiery Furnace Rules
Due to the popularity and delicacy of the trail, there are rules and restrictions to hike the Fiery Furnace.
- Permits are required.
- You must hike in groups of six people or fewer.
- The minimum age is five-years-old.
- No one may do this hike in sandals, even athletic sandals.
- The park has established designated trails through the Fiery Furnace. It’s important to stay on these trails to avoid damaging the delicate biocrust that covers much of the desert ground.
- Hikers should pack out all their trash and leave the area as they found it. Always practice “Leave No Trace” principles. This includes human biological waste.
- Hikers should keep a safe distance from wildlife and avoid disturbing them.
- Keep voices low, as the rock walls amplify sound.
Rangers will cover all rules during your orientation.
How to Access The Fiery Furnace
The Fiery Furnace is a scenic area located in the eastern section of Arches National Park. It is situated just south of the main park road, between the Courthouse Towers and the Windows Section. The trailhead for the Fiery Furnace hike is located at the end of the unpaved and signed road, off of the main park road.
Fiery Furnace is the perfect family hike because it is unique and memorable. Unlike many other hikes, the Fiery Furnace offers a truly special experience that families will remember for a lifetime.
The maze-like canyons and towering sandstone formations are unlike anything else in the world, and the experience of navigating the Fiery Furnace is truly one-of-a-kind. It is a must-visit destination for families who are looking for a little bit of adventure and a lot of beauty.
So if you’re planning a trip to Arches National Park, make sure to add the Fiery Furnace to your list of must-visit destinations!
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