The Moab-Arches Shuttle is currently operating as a free transit service to help visitors access Arches National Park without the need for personal vehicles, according to local officials. The service, which launched on Sept. 1, 2026, is being utilized as a pilot program to alleviate traffic and simplify access to the park's most popular hiking areas.
Pilot Program Schedule
The shuttle system, which began service on Sept. 1, 2026, offers an optional transit solution for those looking to avoid parking congestion and heavy traffic. The program is scheduled to operate as a pilot through Oct. 31, 2026, before pausing for the winter and resuming on March 1, 2027, through June 30, 2027.
Available Shuttle Routes
The shuttle service consists of two distinct routes designed to connect the town of Moab with the national park. One intra-park route connects the Arches Visitor Center with the Delicate Arch area and The Windows. A second downtown route connects the Arches Visitor Center with four specific locations in Moab: the Transit Hub, the Moab Rock Shop, the Moab Information Center, and Maverick Gas.
Requirements for Riders
To use the free service, riders must present a valid National Parks Pass, which drivers will check at pickup locations. Accepted passes include the Standard Pass, the Annual Pass, and the America the Beautiful Pass. For groups traveling together, a single standard vehicle pass is sufficient to admit the entire party on the shuttle.
Parking and Access Options
Visitors can access the shuttle from various locations depending on their travel plans. Travelers can park in downtown Moab and walk to any of the four transit stops, or they may utilize parking at Lions Park. Alternatively, guests can drive directly to the Arches Visitor Center to connect with the intra-park shuttle route.
Daily Operating Hours
Shuttles are scheduled to run daily starting at 8:00 a.m., with vehicles arriving at intervals of 15 to 30 minutes. According to service details, the final shuttle departure from the Delicate Arch Trailhead is at 4:05 p.m., while the last shuttle returning from the Arches Visitor Center to Moab departs at 5:10 p.m.
Regional Tourism Context
The Moab Office of Tourism, a department within Grand County, manages the area which serves as a gateway to several major landmarks. The region includes Arches and Canyonlands national parks, as well as Dead Horse Point and Utahraptor state parks. The area, which encompasses over 3 million acres of public lands, sees an estimated 2.5 million visitors annually.
Environmental and Practical Benefits
The implementation of the shuttle aims to help visitors do their part to keep the park beautiful by reducing the impact of vehicle traffic. National Park passes can be purchased online or in person at the Moab Information Center.
