Delicate Arch Trail
Hike to Utah's most iconic natural wonder, the free-standing Delicate Arch, for breathtaking desert vistas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Delicate Arch Trail
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike to Utah's most iconic natural wonder, the free-standing Delicate Arch, for breathtaking desert vistas.
"The Delicate Arch is pretty cool. Be careful going to stand under it. It’d be a pretty rough fall if you trip."
Carry Plenty of Water! 💧
The 3-mile hike is strenuous, especially in heat. Stay hydrated to avoid issues.
Sturdy Footwear is Key 👟
The trail involves a lot of slickrock. Good traction is essential to prevent slips.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Delicate Arch
End of the Delicate Arch Trail
The iconic, free-standing sandstone arch that defines Arches National Park. A truly breathtaking sight.
The Slickrock Climb
Mid-section of the Delicate Arch Trail
A challenging but rewarding ascent up a vast expanse of sandstone, offering stunning desert vistas.
Golden Hour Views
Delicate Arch viewpoint
Witness the arch bathed in the warm, magical glow of sunrise or sunset. Unforgettable!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Prepare for the Climb
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Carry Plenty of Water! 💧
The 3-mile hike is strenuous, especially in heat. Stay hydrated to avoid issues.
Sturdy Footwear is Key 👟
The trail involves a lot of slickrock. Good traction is essential to prevent slips.
Sunrise/Sunset Hike? Bring a Flashlight! 🔦
Trail markers are hard to see in the dark. A good flashlight is crucial for safety.
Be Patient for Photos 📸
Expect lines to get your iconic shot under the arch, especially during peak times.
Tips
from all over the internet
Carry Plenty of Water! 💧
The 3-mile hike is strenuous, especially in heat. Stay hydrated to avoid issues.
Sturdy Footwear is Key 👟
The trail involves a lot of slickrock. Good traction is essential to prevent slips.
Sunrise/Sunset Hike? Bring a Flashlight! 🔦
Trail markers are hard to see in the dark. A good flashlight is crucial for safety.
Be Patient for Photos 📸
Expect lines to get your iconic shot under the arch, especially during peak times.
Fear of Heights? Be Aware! ⚠️
Some sections have steep drop-offs. Assess your comfort level before proceeding.
Go Early to Park 🚗
The parking lot fills up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Delicate Arch Trail is overwhelmingly considered a must-do, with visitors praising its iconic beauty and rewarding views. While the hike is strenuous and can be crowded, the breathtaking sight of Delicate Arch makes the effort worthwhile for most. Some concerns are raised about safety on steep sections and visibility in the dark, emphasizing the need for preparation.
"Worth the effort. The trail is a moderate trail with a pretty good uphill climb up rock. The Delicate Arch is pretty cool. Be careful going to stand under it. It’d be a pretty rough fall if you trip. It attracts a pretty big crowd. The trail is easy to lose in the dark so if you’re going to catch it at sunset, a good flashlight is a must… watch for reflective trail markers."
Nate Glenn
"This is the most iconic hike in Arches for a reason! Although the trail is uphill almost the entire way, it is totally worth it. The Arch is unlike any other in the park! We went in the morning on a Monday in August and it was busy but not terrible. Parking lot was about 2/3 full by 8:15."
Brooke Gietman
"A 1.5 mile trail that is an out and back so it is ,3 miles in total. A bit if an uphill climb as you go out. Near the end if the trail you have a steep incline with a narrow path of 7 ft or so with a large drop off. Then you arrive at the arch. Form a line to get your picture taken. Be sure to ask the next people in line if they mine taking your picture."
Craig Brophy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trailhead is located within Arches National Park. From the park entrance, follow the main park road south for approximately 18 miles. The Delicate Arch Trailhead parking lot will be on your right.
Yes, there is a parking lot, but it fills up very quickly, especially during peak season and popular times like sunrise and sunset. Arriving early is highly recommended.
No, the only way to reach Delicate Arch is by hiking the Delicate Arch Trail, which is 3 miles round trip. There are viewpoints, but they don't offer the same up-close experience.
Arches National Park does not currently have a shuttle system that stops directly at the Delicate Arch Trailhead. You will need to drive your own vehicle or use a private tour service.
The closest major airport is in Grand Junction, Colorado (GJT), about a 1.5-hour drive away. Moab, Utah, is the closest town and offers various accommodation options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Arches National Park often requires timed entry reservations during peak season. Check the official NPS website for the most current information and to book your slot in advance.
The entrance fee is typically $30 per vehicle, valid for 7 days. An America the Beautiful Pass also covers entry.
There are no separate fees for the Delicate Arch Trail; the entrance fee to Arches National Park covers access to all trails within the park.
Arches National Park is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, but timed entry reservations may be required during certain hours or seasons.
Hiking Delicate Arch at night is possible but not recommended for inexperienced hikers due to the lack of visible trail markers and potential hazards. If you do, a powerful flashlight is essential.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The Delicate Arch Trail is considered moderate to strenuous. It's a 3-mile round trip with a significant uphill climb on slickrock and some steep sections.
Most visitors take 2-3 hours to complete the hike, including time to enjoy the arch and take photos. This can vary based on fitness level and how long you spend at the arch.
Wear comfortable hiking clothes, sturdy shoes with good grip (like hiking boots or trail runners), and a hat for sun protection. Layers are recommended as temperatures can change.
Yes, there are restrooms available at the Delicate Arch Trailhead parking lot. It's advisable to use them before starting your hike.
Yes, the Delicate Arch Trail is one of the most popular hikes in Arches National Park and can get very crowded, especially during midday and sunset. Going early or late can help.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting, with golden hour casting a warm glow on the arch. Midday can be harsh, but still offers good views. +1
Try visiting at sunrise or very early in the morning on a weekday. Sometimes, brief moments of solitude can be found even during busy times.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the arch. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions at sunrise/sunset. Don't forget extra batteries!
The main viewpoint is directly in front of the arch. For different perspectives, explore the area around the arch, but be mindful of safety and stay on marked paths.
Drone usage is prohibited in all national parks, including Arches National Park, to protect wildlife and preserve the visitor experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The slickrock sections are fun to navigate, but keep a close eye on children, especially near any drop-offs. The sheer scale of Delicate Arch is sure to impress kids and adults alike! ⛰️ Adventure Seekers & Photographers
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Delicate Arch Trail Experience
Many visitors recommend bringing at least 1-2 liters of water per person, even in cooler weather, as the desert sun can be intense. Sturdy hiking shoes with good traction are crucial for navigating the slickrock sections safely. While the trail is generally well-marked, hiking at dawn or dusk requires a reliable flashlight, as reflective markers can be difficult to spot in the dark.
Despite the challenges, the reward is immense. Standing beneath the massive, free-standing Delicate Arch is a truly awe-inspiring experience. The arch itself is a geological marvel, carved by millions of years of erosion.
The views from the arch area are expansive, offering a panoramic perspective of the surrounding desert landscape. Navigating Crowds and Safety
Safety is a significant concern for some visitors. The trail features a steep, exposed section with a considerable drop-off near the end. While many find it manageable with caution, those with a severe fear of heights may find it challenging.
It's important to note that while the trail is popular, it's not a paved path. Visitors should be prepared for uneven terrain and potential hazards. Always check weather conditions before your hike, as flash floods can occur in the desert.
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