Petrified Dunes Viewpoint
Witness ancient sand dunes hardened into stone, with the majestic La Sal Mountains as a backdrop. A unique geological stop on Arches Scenic Drive.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Golden hour light paints the dunes
Petrified Dunes Viewpoint
Best Time
Golden hour light paints the dunes
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness ancient sand dunes hardened into stone, with the majestic La Sal Mountains as a backdrop. A unique geological stop on Arches Scenic Drive.
"Nice viewpoint on Arches Scenic Drive with views of the petrified dunes feature and the La Sal Mountains."
🌅 Catch the Golden Hour
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic light for photos of the petrified dunes.
🚗 Limited Parking Alert
Parking is scarce here; be patient and watch for oncoming traffic.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Petrified Dunes
East along Arches National Park Drive
Ancient sand dunes transformed into stone, offering a unique geological spectacle.
La Sal Mountains Vista
Eastern horizon
Majestic mountain range providing a stunning backdrop to the desert landscape.
The 'Lying Lady' Formation
South of the viewpoint (west side of road)
A unique rock formation resembling a woman reclining on a chaise lounge.
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Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Catch the Golden Hour
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic light for photos of the petrified dunes.
🚗 Limited Parking Alert
Parking is scarce here; be patient and watch for oncoming traffic.
🧐 Look for the 'Lying Lady'
Scan the southern horizon from the west-side pullout for this unique rock formation.
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond the Pavement
Walk down the rocky area below the main lookout for potentially better vantage points.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Golden Hour
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic light for photos of the petrified dunes.
🚗 Limited Parking Alert
Parking is scarce here; be patient and watch for oncoming traffic.
🧐 Look for the 'Lying Lady'
Scan the southern horizon from the west-side pullout for this unique rock formation.
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond the Pavement
Walk down the rocky area below the main lookout for potentially better vantage points.
📸 Tripod Friendly Spot
The flat area below the lookout is perfect for setting up a tripod for photography.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Petrified Dunes Viewpoint offers a unique geological perspective with views of ancient sand dunes and the La Sal Mountains. While some find it less captivating than the park's famous arches, others appreciate the educational aspect and the chance to witness dramatic weather phenomena. Parking can be a challenge, and some visitors suggest it's best appreciated with a guide or keen eye.
"We were finishing off our trip around Arches National Park when we pulled over at this location to witness an incredible thunderstorm with rainbow and sunshine. The expanse of Arches meant that you could see significant distances in all direction and witness the drama of various weather patterns. This as a superb way to finish off our visit."
Themevify
"This pull-off viewpoint offers a view of the petrified dunes to the east along the Arches National Park Drive. These formations are the result of ancient sand dunes hardened into sone under the overlying subsequent material, which later eroded away. There is also an interpretive display at this site explaining how fragile the desert floor is to the health of the desert. In addition, if you look off to the eastern horizon, you will be able to see the impressive La Sal Mountain Range. From this viewpoint, if you are driving south, you will find another pullout on the west side of the road. If you look to the south , you will see what we have named the “Lying Lady,” which looks like a woman laying on a chaise lounge with her head turned away from you, it is amazing (see photos). Finally, use caution since there are very few parking spaces and beware of on-coming traffic."
Thomas B
"Difficult to notice the features here unless you have a guide or a keen eyed expert with you to pinpoint the Petrified sand dunes against the backdrop."
Falak
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Petrified Dunes Viewpoint is located along the main Arches National Park Drive. If you're driving south from the park entrance, it's a pull-off on the east side of the road. If you're driving north, it will be on your west side.
Yes, it's a roadside viewpoint accessible by car. However, parking can be very limited, especially during peak hours.
The Arches National Park Drive is paved and well-maintained. Be mindful of other visitors, cyclists, and potential wildlife.
Absolutely! It's a designated stop on the Arches Scenic Drive, often visited alongside other popular spots like Courthouse Towers and Balanced Rock.
Currently, Arches National Park does not operate a shuttle system that stops at every viewpoint. Driving your own vehicle is the primary way to access this location.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, you need to pay the entrance fee for Arches National Park to access the Petrified Dunes Viewpoint.
Arches National Park is typically open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, but specific facilities and roads may have seasonal hours. It's best to check the official NPS website for the most current information.
The entrance fee for Arches National Park is subject to change, but it's generally around $30 per vehicle for a 7-day pass. Check the NPS website for the latest pricing.
Arches National Park has implemented a timed entry system during peak seasons. You may need a timed entry ticket in addition to the park entrance fee. Always check the NPS website for current requirements.
Discounts may be available for those with America the Beautiful passes, senior passes, or military passes. Check the NPS website for eligibility.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset are highly recommended for photography. The low-angle light creates dramatic shadows and highlights on the petrified dunes and the La Sal Mountains.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscape. A tripod is also highly recommended, especially for sunrise and sunset shots.
Beyond the dunes and mountains, look for the 'Lying Lady' formation to the south. The contrast between the desert floor and the distant mountains is also a popular subject.
Drone usage is restricted in Arches National Park. Always check the latest NPS regulations regarding drone operation before flying.
Weather can change rapidly. Dramatic thunderstorms with rainbows have been observed, offering unique photographic opportunities.
🎫 💡 Onsite Experience
You can see the ancient petrified sand dunes, the La Sal Mountains in the distance, and potentially the 'Lying Lady' rock formation. There are also interpretive displays about the desert ecosystem. +1
Most visitors spend about 10-15 minutes here to take in the views and read the interpretive signs. If you're a photographer, you might stay longer, especially during sunrise or sunset.
There isn't a dedicated hike directly from the viewpoint, but you can walk down the rocky area below the main lookout for different perspectives.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and layers of clothing as desert temperatures can fluctuate.
Restrooms are not typically available at this specific viewpoint. The nearest facilities are usually at larger visitor centers or picnic areas within the park.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photographers
🚗 Road Trippers
Be aware that parking is limited, so if it's full, consider moving on to the next stop and returning later if time permits. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Petrified Dunes
It's important to remember that the desert floor is incredibly fragile. Interpretive displays at the viewpoint often highlight the delicate ecosystem and the impact of human activity. Staying on designated paths and respecting the environment is crucial to preserving these natural wonders for future visitors.
While the petrified dunes are the namesake, the viewpoint also provides a stunning panorama of the La Sal Mountains on the eastern horizon. These snow-capped peaks offer a dramatic contrast to the arid desert, showcasing the diverse topography of the Moab region.
Photography Tips from the Community
Beyond the main dunes, keen observers are encouraged to look for specific formations. The 'Lying Lady', a rock formation resembling a woman reclining, is a unique subject for photographers, though it requires a bit of searching from a specific vantage point.
Be prepared for dynamic weather. Some visitors have experienced and photographed dramatic thunderstorms, complete with rainbows and sunshine, adding an element of surprise and unique beauty to their shots.
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