If you’re looking to experience the jaw dropping arches and unique rock formations found in Arches National Park then one of the park’s hiking trails is the place to be. From short easy paths to strenuous rocky slopes, Arches has a hike for just about everyone. In this post we are sharing 10 great hikes in Arches National Park.
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National Park Essentials
Prepare for your adventures in Arches National Park with our recommended hiking and safety gear.
It’s important to note when hiking in Arches National Park that you stay on the trail to protect the living soil called biological soil crust. To learn more about these ancient organisms visit the park website.
#1. THE WINDOWS LOOP
TRAIL STATS
1.2 miles | Easy | 30 min – 1 hour | 99 ft Elevation Gain
The 1.2 mile Windows Loop trail is an easy scenic path that showcases stunning red rock scenery, distant mountains, and some of the parks largest arches. The trail features a slight climb in the beginning and then is mostly flat and gravel with some rocky steps.
On the trail you’ll be rewarded with up close views of the giant North and South Windows as well as Turret Arch.
#2. DOUBLE ARCH
TRAIL STATS
0.6 miles | Easy | 15 – 30 minutes | 30 ft Elevation Gain
The half mile trail to Double Arch is a mostly flat and gravel path that leads you right up to the tallest and second longest arch in the park, Double Arch. Climbing on the rocks underneath the arch is allowed but should be done with caution as it’s often easier climbing up than climbing down.
The path back to the parking lot offers amazing views of the surrounding windows area.
#3. PARK AVENUE / COURTHOUSE TOWERS
TRAIL STATS
1.8 miles | Moderate | 1 Hour | 322 ft Elevation Gain
Park Avenue/ Courthouse Towers is one of the first stopping points once you enter Arches National Park and for good reason. The trail descends down into a canyon where you’ll walk among towering rock walls and massive monoliths. Park Avenue is the south end of the trail and Courthouse Towers is the north end so you can start this trail from either end.
For a less strenuous hike start at Courthouse Towers and turn around once you get to the steps at Park Avenue.
#4. FIERY FURNACE
For an off the beaten path experience in Arches National Park, join a ranger guided hike through a red maze of narrow passages & towering sandstone walls at the Fiery Furnace.
Permits are $10 per person and can be obtained online up to 7 days in advance.
#5. DEVILS GARDEN TO LANDSCAPE ARCH
TRAIL STATS
1.8 miles | Easy | 30 – 60 minutes | 40 ft Elevation Gain
Landscape Arch is the largest arch in Arches National Park and a must do on any visit. The arch can be accessed via the 1.8 mile Devils Garden trail located at the back of the park.
The hard packed path is a fairly easy walk and showcases several additional unique rock formations such as Tunnel Arch and Pine Tree Arch as well as tons of plant life.
#6. DELICATE ARCH
TRAIL STATS
3.0 miles | Strenuous | 2 – 3 Hours | 538 ft Elevation Gain
Delicate Arch is by far the most popular arch to visit in Arches National Park. Standing 46 feet tall and 32 feet wide, Delicate Arch is the largest free standing arch in the entire park and a must do on any visit to Arches National Park.
The 3 mile trail up to the arch is strenuous as you climb up steep slick rock to a front and center view of Delicate Arch. The trail is very exposed so come prepared with sun protectant and water if hiking this trail in the summer months.
The trail also features the historic Wolf Ranch, a one room cabin built in 1838 as well as stunning views of petroglyphs and the surrounding landscape of Arches National Park.
#7. SAND DUNE ARCH
TRAIL STATS
0.4 miles | Easy | 15 – 30 minutes | 0 ft Elevation Gain
Sand Dune Arch is another strange and unique arch you won’t want to skip on your visit to Arches National Park. The trail leads you through deep sand and squeezes between narrows rock walls to a secluded arch tucked in between giant sandstone fins.
The 0.4 mile trail to Sand Dune Arch can be combined with Broken Arch to make a moderate 2.3 mile out and back hike.
#8. BALANCED ROCK
TRAIL STATS
0.3 miles | Easy | 15 – 30 minutes | 35 ft Elevation Gain | Location: The Windows
Balanced Rock is an iconic feature of Arches National Park and is a must do on any visit to the park. The rock sits 128 feet tall and can be seen several miles in the distance once you enter the park. The short 0.3 mile trail up to the rock is easy offers amazing views of The Windows and the La Sal Mountains in the distance.
The trail is mostly flat and paved with some rocky and steep steps as you loop around the rock. It’s important to note that climbing on Balanced Rock is prohibited.
#9. DELICATE ARCH VIEWPOINTS
For those looking for an easier route to see Delicate Arch the Lower & Upper Viewpoints are shorter and less strenuous walks, however Delicate Arch is much further in the distance.
The Lower Viewpoint is a short 200 foot walk on a flat trail that takes about 5 to 15 minutes to complete. The path is wheel chair accessible and is the easiest way to see Delicate Arch.
The Upper Viewpoint is a more moderate 0.5 mile climb up a series of steps to a different viewing of Delicate Arch off in the distance. If you are short on time and are good with a moderate hike then this is a good way to see Delicate Arch.
#10. SKYLINE ARCH
TRAIL STATS
0.4 miles | Easy | 10 – 20 minutes | 28 ft of Elevation Gain
For a less popular trail to explore in Arches, hop on the short and easy 0.4 trail to Skyline Arch. The path starts with a slight climb up rocky steps then levels out as you make your way to the base of Skyline Arch, found up high on a rock wall.
The trail is located near the back of the park near Devils Garden. The arch is visible from the road so if you don’t have time or are too exhausted you can still get a glimpse of this arch from your car.
Ready to explore Arches National Park?
Plan the perfect trip with our 4 Day Arches & Canyonlands National Park Itinerary Guide. Featuring park icons such as Mesa Arch, Delicate Arch, Moab’s outdoor adventures, & more.
I hope this post was helpful in planning your trip to Arches National Park! Let us know in the comments what are your favorite trails!
