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Delicate Arch Trail, Arches National park

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Highlights:

Mostly slickrock trail, world famous Delicate Arch, petroglyph, distant mountain
Near:Moab, UT
Scenery:
Distance:3 miles round trip
Elevation Gain:500 ft
Hike Time:1.5 hours
Difficulty:Moderate
Trail Condition:Well maintained trail
HikeType:Out and Back



Summary: This trail leads to Delicate Arch, the signature landmark of Arches National Park. Shortly after the start of the hike a short spur trail leads to a Ute Indian Petroglyph. You can take the trail now or on your return.

Back on the main trail, you will cross a well constructed bridge, and begin your first series of swtchbacks. The trail eventually turns from a sandy/rocky trail to relatively steep red slickrock, marked with a series of rock cairns. Up to this point the trail is not overly scenic, but about 2/3 of a mile into the hike, that begins to change.

Once the steepest of the slickrock melts away, you find yourself in a small valley with red rock views around. The trail eventually ends after a short distance on a rock ledge leading all the way to the arch. Great views are in all directions, including the La Sal Mts in the distance. Take the hike in the late afternoon when the colors come alive for the best photos. Return via the same trail.

Trailhead: Trailhead is located in Arches National Park. Trailhead is clearly signed, off the main park road down Cache Valley. Large paved parking area at the trailhead. (Lat:38.73553 Lon:-109.52046)
Trail Guides for Delicate Arch Trail, Arches National park:
Utahs National Parks
by Ron Adkison (Wilderness Press)

Best Seasons: Fall, Spring,
User Groups: Hikers,
Ranger Contact: National Park Service - (435) 259-8161
Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Ron Long, who has posted  22 other hikes on this site
Trail Reviews  Submit your own review
Reviewed by Jared on 8/15/2010
Remarkable trail. Just loved it. Found some good pix and GPS map at www.hikespeak.com/trails/delicate-arch-hike-arches/ too. Great trail.

Reviewed by Tina on 8/24/2007
Apparently this hike has become more popular than when I visited there-I did not encounter too many people, even in September---it was spectacular.

Reviewed by JZR on 4/28/2007
A must-do in Moab, especially at sunset. This is a "social" hike - the arch will most likely be crowded with many spectators of all nationalities until sun down. If you have the right mind-set, you will have fun and maybe meet some interesting people. We met a group of Utah State female students celebrating a b-day with wine and cheese. We also witnessed a pair of male students pose naked in front of the arch. Like I said, its more of a social scene than most trails...

Reviewed by Karen on 2/26/2007
Nice hike, but expect the crowds.

Reviewed by KC on 11/30/2006
I have hiked this several times, from the winter to the middle of the summer. It was not as fun in the middle of the summer heat. I prefer early spring or late fall. But it is breathtaking at the end, and not too difficult of a hike, It's a nice little hike if you are in Arches and the Moab area, worth an hour or so of your time.

Reviewed by J. Schoeberlein on 9/14/2006
I have hiked this wonderful trail three times. Avoid the heat in the middle of the day. This trail has gotten longer as I've gotten older. :-)

Reviewed by Kevin on 4/4/2005
This is worth all the effort to complete. Words and Picutres just do not do this tail justice!

Reviewed by Matty Ross on 10/17/2004
I made my first trip to the arch this weekend. I say First because I know I will return many times to this beautiful place


Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site.
Keys: Utah Hiking, Utah Trails, Utah Hikes, Grand County Hiking, Grand County Trails, Grand County Hikes


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