Chicken Corners

Map ID: 1

Round Trip from Moab: 54 miles
4-Wheel Drive Road: 43 miles
Minimum Time: 3-1/2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate

The route travels the Colorado River Canyon just below Moab, follows a spectacular part of Kane Springs Canyon, climbs the Kane Creek anticline to Hurrah Pass, and descends to benches above the Colorado River. The trail dead-ends at Chicken Corners about 400 feet above the river across from Dead Horse Point.

Trail Directions

From Main Street at Center Street in Moab, travel south on Main 6/10 mile, turn right on Kane Creek Boulevard, follow it through two sweeping curves past its junction with 500 West and continue into the river canyon. When the pavement ends near Kane Creek [0.0], continue on the good gravel road as it enters Kane Springs Canyon and follows the canyon meanders at various levels above the creek. Continue with the gravel road as it crosses the mouth of Hunter Canyon at a hiking trailhead [3.2].

Further along, the canyon broadens, and you can see Hurrah Pass on the right. The gravel road changes to dirt at the ford of Kane Creek [6.4]. Do not attempt to ford in high water; the water can be window-deep following storms or heavy spring melts. Beyond the ford, stay with the best-looking road as other trails leave to the left in the next half mile, and the road will bend toward the north and begin to ascend the cliffs below Anticline Overlook (note the safety fence on the cliff edge above). The summit of this climb is Hurrah Pass [10.0]. As the trail winds down the other side of the anticline, it shows more four-wheel-drive character.

The trail leaves the cliffs on a gentler slope and drops into a wash bottom. Continue straight (out of the wash) where a spur trail leaves to the right and follows the rough wash bottom [12.5]. Shortly after that, an optional route enters a small canyon to the left; the preferred route up the rocky slope to the right swings close to the river on a bench above it. Farther on, two trail junctions [14.4 and 14.6] leave to the left in view of a large side canyon and a mound of red rocks not far to the left of the trail. These trails go to the rock mound and its interesting catacomb caves. The main trail continues along the river benches, which are capped with fossil-bearing limestone, until it crosses a major wash [17.1]. (On the return trip, you will probably spot an unusual arch near the trail east of the wash crossing.) The trail you may see starting up this wash is the Lockhart Basin trail. You follow the main trail straight across the wash and follow along the benches as they wind higher above the water.

The point where the trail is pinched between rocks on the left and the abyss on the right [20.3] is “Chicken Corners” where Moab area guides were reputed to allow “chicken” passengers to walk, rather than ride, past the narrow, sloping section of trail. The trail continues along the broad bench until it narrows to an old horse trail [21.5]. You can’t go much farther, even on foot, because this is the start of a peninsula of land bounded by the gooseneck of the Colorado, the trademark of the spectacular view from Dead Horse Point. Return to Moab by the same route.

Gemini Bridges

Map ID: 2

Round Trip from Moab: 48 miles
4-Wheel Drive Road: 14 miles
Minimum Time: 2-1/2 hours
Difficulty: Easy

The trail covers a region between US Highway 191 and SR 313, reaches some grand vistas, and accesses numerous other trails. The highlight is the spectacular twin arch, called Gemini Bridges, on the rim of an arm of Bull Canyon.

Trail Directions

From the center of Moab, travel north on US Highway 191 for 9.8 miles (you are still south of the SR 313 junction). Turn left to cross a cattle guard near an old ore car by the railroad tracks [0.0], cross the tracks, and turn left to follow the southerly dirt road paralleling the tracks. The main trail soon veers right toward the cliffs, and steadily climbs the cliff slope to Little Canyon, the gap in the cliff rim. Stay with the best maintained trail through upper Little Canyon (old mine trails leave left and right, and a strong spur trail leaves left into a side canyon). Turn right from the wash bottom area [4.8] to climb the steep dugway. The trail passes a gate and winds to higher levels, giving vistas in all directions. Stay with the main trail as spurs leave to the left, and fork right where the good left-hand trail leads to the lower levels of Bull Canyon [6.2] as it begins a sweeping bend to the right. This less-maintained trail is the older route; the graded road is not shown on many trail maps.

As the trail winds still higher, ignore two spur trails to the left and watch for the “Y”, junction that indicates that you are near Gemini Bridges. Keep left at the “Y” [7.4] and follow the markings; past visitors have left numerous unnecessary trails. As you approach the canyon, you will see the deep hole [7.8] that opens into the canyon wall leaving the twin spans. Return part way toward the “Y” junction, but take- the short-cut [8.0] to the left to join the main trail that was the right-hand fork of the “Y”. Turn left on this main trail [8.1], and turn right where a spur trail heads down to Crips Hole [9.0]. The trail joins the graded road that you were on earlier near a drill pad [9.7], and you travel the graded road westerly to paved SR 313 [13.8]. There, a right turn returns you to US Highway 191, while a left heads for Dead Horse Point State Park and the Island in the Sky District of Canyonlands National Park.

Fins and Things

Map ID: 3

Round Trip from Moab: 20 miles
4-Wheel Drive Road: 9.4 miles
Minimum Time: 3 hours
Difficulty: Difficult

Fins and Things is a one-way trail. It starts 1.9 miles from the Sand Flats Entrance Station (5 miles from downtown Moab), beside campsite ‘E-6’ in Echo Campground. For trailer parking, please park prior to this on the south side of Sand Flats Road 1.4 miles from Entrance Station. OHVs are permitted on the Sand Flats Road. The trail is marked with metal signs and white symbols painted on the slickrock surface. Due to hazardous terrain, it is recommended only for experienced drivers.

The first section between the start and Fox Campgrounds is not recommended for ATVs. ATV users should pick up the trail on the Sand Flats Road at the Diving Board Rock formation which is 3.7 miles from the Entrance Station. A fee is required to enter the Sand Flats Recreation Area.

• Mile 0.0: Trailhead, 1.9 miles from Entrance Station on right.
  
• Mile 0.0-0.3: Trail starts out as a gravel road before climbing up rock fin with white painted markers, trail signs and rock lining, then eventually up a slickrock dome to the base of a steep sand hill. Go straight here or follow the easier alternate route to your left, marked with white dots. Stay on marked trail.
• Mile 0.8: Trail drops off fin to right, climbs up again, then drops to the right. Go left here.
• Mile 1.4: Series of steep drops through a slickrock ravine. No alternate routes here. Stay on the trail.
• Mile 1.8 Intersection at Fox Campground. Go right to base of steep rocky hill, or take easier alternate route to your left. Please be considerate when driving through campgrounds. Follow signs to Hawk Campground.
• Mile 2.4: Hawk Campground. Toilet on your left, trail goes right.
• Mile 2.5: Sand Flats Road. Turn right.
• Mile 3.5: North entrance on left immediately after Diving Board Rock. Two-way travel for .6 miles
• Mile 4.1 Intersection with Porcupine Jeep Trail; go left. One-way travel only.
• Mile 5.4: Stay straight; spur to overlook on right.
• Mile 5.6: Bear right; left goes to Radio Tower and Sand Flats Road.
• Mile 6.1: Stay left at Wilderness Study Area boundary which is closed to all motorized travel.
• Mile 6.7: Large canyon to right. Nice lunch stop with views of Arches National Park.
• Mile 7.0: Cross ravine, climb slickrock to your right. Watch for symbols.
• Mile 7.3-7.4: Climb fin, then hard right at Mile 7.4. Stay on marked route which is almost all slickrock.
• Mile 7.7: Left is exit to main road (1/2 mile); right continues out on a fin.
• Mile 8.1: Intersection; stay right. In 1/2 mile, you will cross here again.
• Mile 8.6: Hard right, then left. Follow symbols on an up-and-down ride to mile 9.0.
• Mile 9.0: Continue on trail 4/10 mile to main road.
• Mile 9.4: Sand Flats Road. Right will take you to the Entrance Station and back to Moab.

Other Trails

The Red Rock 4-Wheelers is a non-profit club organized to bring together adventure loving individuals and families who share the common interest of active four-wheeling. Their objective is to encourage family recreation through safe and responsible operation of four-wheel-drive vehicles. They also seek to utilize public lands in a responsible manner as part of an effort to keep public land trails and roads available for multipurpose use. The club organizes one of Moab’s largest events, the annual Easter Jeep Safari, which consists of trail rides, mostly day long trips, departing from Moab throughout the 9 day-long event.

The club’s website contains a fantastic reference to most of the 4-wheel drive trails in the Moab area. Visit their website here: rr4w.com.

Long-Term Parking in Moab

Need somewhere to to park your vehicle or trailer overnight? Although the city of Moab does not have any public long-term parking areas, these companies provide safe, secure storage.

Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Motorized Travel Routes

History

0.0 MILES (0.0 KM) – Beginning of Scenic Byway and Movie Location

The intersection of SR-313 and Hwy 191: mile marker 136.8 on US 191 and 11 miles (17.7 km) north of downtown Moab, Utah, 20 miles – 32.2 km (south of Exit 180 on I-70. This is the beginning of your journey to what seems to be the ends of the earth.

Before starting your journey you may want to travel .3 miles (.5 km) north on Highway 191 to fill your tank at the gas station located there.  This station was one of the iconic movie locations in the 1997 movie Breakdown, starring Kurt Russell and Kathleen Quinlan. The plot is basically about a man searching for his missing wife after his car breaks down in the middle of the desert.

Kurt Russell gasses up his vehicle near the intersection of US-191 & U-313 in Breakdown.

Note: Don’t worry folks, reliable car service is just a phone call away in Moab.

Proceed back to the beginning of U-313 and set your trip odometer to 0.

0.01 MILES ( .02 KM)- Entrance to Moab Giants Dinosaur Park

This attraction has life size dinosaurs that walk the ground that they used to call home. https://moabgiants.com/

Moab Giants Dinosaur Park is the first of its kind world-wide. The perfect balance of adventure and science, Moab Giants has been the realization of a dream for both dinosaur park enthusiasts, and world renowned scientists. They have special expertise in the field of fossil footprints and a deep knowledge of the paleontology of the region. 

Not only is the park set among some of the world’s most breathtaking scenery, it is also a unique experience for all ages. Start your journey through time with a 3D cinema introducing you into the prehistoric world, and then venture outside and make your own tracks alongside over 100 state-of the art life-size dinosaurs. You will be roaming the extraordinary landscape dinosaurs once called home, as evidenced by the huge concentration of fossilized tracks found all around the area. The Tracks Museum is full of entertainment with interactive learning touch screens, games to play, and visually stunning exhibits that not only fascinate, but educate. The 5D Paleo-Aquarium gives you a realistic view into ancient life under the sea. Your time in the aquarium will end in the 5D room with an earth shattering experience you are sure not to forget!

Note: The Giant’s Cafe serves up a great selection of food items, and entrance into the park is not required.  Stop in for lunch before starting your journey.

0.6 MILES  (1 KM) – Cliffline Viewpoint & Information Kiosks

This roadside parking area contains information about Canyonlands National Park and Dead Horse Point State Park, along with information on travel and camping rules for the area.  In addition to great views of the area’s geology, abandoned uranium mining activity is visible to the north on the cliffside. 

2.3 MILES (3.7 KM) – Seven Mile Canyon (South Fork)

On the left is a parking area through a gate. This canyon is closed to vehicle traffic about 2.2 miles (3.5 km) up but is open to horseback riders and hikers. Follow the wash up the main canyon. Along the main canyon walls, you may catch a glimpse of a few petroglyphs (these are tricky to find so keep an eye out).  The canyon ends at a grotto that usually has water in a small pond (this is not for human consumption). 7.2 miles (11.6 km) round trip. 

4.5 MILES (7.2 KM) – Monitor and Merrimac Viewpoint 

These two buttes were named for their resemblance to the Monitor and The Merrimack, two American Civil War steamships. Although Merrimac, the larger of the two buttes, looks large it is actually very thin at  200-600 feet wide and 1,600 feet long.

5.3 MILES (8.5 KM) – Navajo Rock East Parking Area

This parking area will give you access to a network of Mountain Biking trails. Navajo Rocks Chaco loop you can also access 7 up, Mag 7, and many other trails.

6.2 MILES – (10.0 KM) Big Mesa View Area 

Views of the surrounding cliffs, along with the Monitor and Merrimac Buttes.  This viewpoint is great for wildflowers in the spring.

7.3 MILES (11.7 KM) – Main Navajo Rocks Parking Area

This parking area is a great place to get some mountain biking, hiking and even four wheeling in. This parking area will give you access to some scenic easy four wheeling. This trailhead can take you up to a dramatic outcropping called determination towers. This is about an 8.8 mile up and back easy going scenic safari ride. 

You can also access Monitor and Merrimac, Seven Mile Rim Safari Trail. Wipeout Hill Safari Trail.

8.4 MILES (13.5 KM) – Plateau Viewpoint

The roadside viewpoint has great views of the La Sal Mountains and the surrounding plateau country.  The La Sal Mountains are part of the Manti-La Sal National Forest and the southern Rocky Mountains. The maximum elevation is at Mount Peale, reaching 12,721 feet (3,877 m) above sea level. The range contains three clusters of peaks separated by passes. The peaks span a distance of about 10 miles (16 km). The name of the range dates to Spanish times, when the Sierra La Sal (meaning the "Salt Mountains") were a prominent landmark on the Old Spanish Trail between Santa Fe and Los Angeles.

8.5 MILES (13.7 KM) – Dubinky Well Road

• Lone Mesa Group Campsites – Lone Mesa Group Sites are ideal for large gatherings such as school groups or family reunions. Read more…
  

Continuing down Dubinky Well Road leads to many four-wheel drive roads that lead to canyons and vistas including:

• Hey Joe Trail, a site of some mining ruins, is a short tributary to Labyrinth Canyon of the Green River. 10 miles of good dirt road to the rim of Spring Canyon, where a spectacular ledge road winds down a 600-foot cliff to the canyon bottom. The trail follows the canyon about 2 miles to the Green River. It then turns upstream about 9 miles along the river to reach Hey Joe Canyon. The trail along the river is subject to rock falls from above and collapse from below.  4WD Required – Difficulty 4/10. Trail Details
• 3D Trail tours the vicinity of colorful Hidden Canyon and Brink Spring, northwest of Moab. It visits the canyon bottom and canyon rim, and, finally, a higher overlook of the area (hence the name 3-D). A few of the hills have been known to challenge stock vehicles, but most of the tour is pleasant, scenic, family four-wheeling. 4WD Required – Difficulty 4/10. Trail Details
• Secret Spire Trail rides the rolling mesa top between two of the Green River’s large tributary canyons, Hellroaring and Spring Canyons. It goes close to the deep portions of Spring Canyon, and it crosses the shallower upper Spring Canyon to visit a strange tower, dubbed the Secret Spire. It is a good trail for some mild four-wheeling through an interesting and scenic expanse of country. 4WD Required – Difficulty 3/10. Trail Details

9.7 MILES (15.6 KM) – Jewel Tibbetts Arch Trail

Turn right on an unimproved dirt road and continue to a parking lot in 1.3 miles (2.1 km). A high clearance vehicle may be required based on conditions. This trail offers spectacular views across Hell Roaring Canyon to a large natural arch. From the parking lot, the trail passes through a fence and follows a dirt road for about 0.1 miles (.16 km). The trail leaves the road and goes down several dry washes until it rejoins an old road (closed to vehicles). After a short distance, the trail leaves the old road, and follows a series of rock cairns near the edge of Hell Roaring Canyon (400 feet deep).

View of Hell Roaring Canyon on the trail to Jewel Tibbetts Arch

After a short distance, the trail follows a short spur onto a slickrock platform, from which spectacular views of the arch and the canyon below can be had. The trail returns to the parking lot across a blackbrush mesa, where it rejoins the road. The arch is named after Jewel Tibbetts, a Moab resident who lived about 10 miles’ (16.1 km) distance at the Horsethief Ranch in the 1950 and 1960’s with her husband Bill. They often took ranch visitors to see the arch. Note: Hikers should exercise caution on those sections of the trail which are close to the edge of Hell-Roaring Canyon. The trail can be very warm in summer. Neither mountain bikes nor motorized vehicles are allowed on this trail, except for the first 0.1 miles (.16 km) where the trail follows an existing road. Length of Hike: 2.1 miles (3.4 km), round-trip (semi-loop); allow about 2 hours round-trip. 

11.9 MILES (19.2 KM) – Horse Thief Campground Entrance 

Campsites are tucked in the pygmy pinyon-juniper forest on the mesas above Moab, yet offer great views. Individual sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. One group site, Horsethief Group Site, is available for reservation through Recreation.gov. This campground is close to Canyonlands National Park and Dead Horse Point State Park. 

12.2 MILES (19.6 KM) – Mineral Bottom Rd

The road is well maintained and is rated as easy. It is about 13 miles (20.9 km) to the switchbacks that lead you down to the White Rim Trail and the Green River.  The steep switchbacks are scenic and easy as you descend about 500′ to the bottom. Although the road is suitable for high-clearance two-wheel-drive vehicles when dry, the unpaved sections of the road can be impassable when wet.  In any case, driving 4WD is recommended due to uneven surface. Once on the bottom, turning right will lead you to a dead end at Mineral Bottom, where rafting boats are launched. If you turn left you are on the White Rim Trail in Canyonlands National Park. (A permit is required for the White Rim: https://www.nps.gov/cany/planyourvisit/dayusepermits.htm)

Mile 13.1  (21.1 KM) – Gemini Bridges Trail 

Gemini Bridges is one of the most popular spots in Moab. The Gemini Bridges Trail is well known to local mountain bike riders for its scenery and long descents. Starting from U-313, the trail is nearly all downhill back to US-191. Approximately 5.5 miles from U-313, the spur route to Gemini Bridges is encountered. This route is a hiking route only and is a short 0.2 mile walk. After viewing the bridges, enjoy the rest of the marked trail down to Highway 191. This bike route utilizes a county road and is shared with jeeps, ATV/UTVs, and dirt bikes.

14.6 MILES  (23.5 KM) – Left Turn to Dead Horse Point State Park

19.1 MILES (30.7 KM) – Entrance Station to Dead Horse Point State Park

From the prominence of Dead Horse Point, 2,000 feet above a gooseneck in the Colorado River, an ever-changing landscape unfurls. Immense vertical cliffs meet with canyons carved by ice, water, and wind creating a visual masterpiece. 

Millions of years of geologic activity created the spectacular views from Dead Horse Point State Park. Deposition of sediments by ancient oceans, freshwater lakes, streams and wind blown sand dunes created the rock layers of canyon country. Igneous activity formed the high mountains that rise like cool blue islands out of the hot, dry desert.

An entrance fee is required.

19.5 MILES (31.4) – Moenkopi Yurts

A perfect location for experiencing sunrise, sunset and a bit of seclusion, the Moenkopi Yurts offer a glorious camping experience up at Dead Horse Point State Park.  With sweeping views and a private spur to the Intrepid Trail System this yurt site can be your quiet spot of heaven while enjoying the Moab area. These Yurts can be reserved at https://www.reserveamerica.com/explore/dead-horse-point-state-park/UT/344161/overview

20.2 MILES (32.5 KM) – Grand and San Juan County line

21.1 MILES (34.0 KM) – Visitor Center/ Basin Overlook Parking Lot

A gift shop is located inside the visitor center and offers park visitors a variety of quality souvenirs including shirts, hats, postcards, cups, handmade knives, magnets, art work, pottery, snacks, etc.

22.1 MILES (35.6 KM) – Bottleneck viewpoint (Historical Marker)

On the road, about a quarter of a mile from the lookout point, you’ll pass the bottleneck which is only about 30 feet wide. Here, once the horses would be herded in, a fence and gate were placed trapping the horses. The cowboys could then pick out the wild horses they wished to keep. Unfortunately, as the story goes, once the cowboys picked the horses they wanted, they opened the gate at the bottleneck and left. It was said that the wild horses were so spooked that many didn’t leave the point, even though the gate was open, and being on top of a mesa, with no shade and no water, they died of thirst.

22.5 MILES (36.2 KM) – Dead Horse Point Overlook Trail

This is the main attraction of Dead Horse Point State Park. From the overlook parking lot, a short paved pathway leads to breathtaking views of the Colorado River and adjacent canyon country some 2,000 feet below. A large shelter at the overlook provides relief from both foul weather and summer heat. Paved pathways lead out in both directions from the shelter, providing additional viewpoints while linking up with both the East and West Rim trail systems.

Although the primary overlook and shade shelter are accessible, the eastern and western spur trails contain steeper inclines and short sections of slick rock interspersed with the pavement.

Introduction

Located just 5 miles (8 km) north of Moab, you will discover the awe-inspiring Arches National Park, boasting the largest concentration of natural sandstone arches on Earth. With over 2,000 arches scattered across its vast 76,518-acre expanse, this park is a treasure trove of geological wonders. Towering sandstone fins, majestic balanced rocks, and soaring pinnacles and spires dominate the landscape, leaving visitors in awe as they explore the park’s numerous viewpoints and hiking trails.

Embarking on a scenic drive along a paved route, visitors can easily access the park’s key viewpoints, allowing them to soak in the breathtaking vistas. However, Arches National Park offers more than just stunning arches. Its rock formations captivate the imagination of both children and adults alike. Families can venture out of their vehicles and embark on easy trails, providing kids with the perfect opportunity to intimately experience the arches up close.

For avid hikers seeking a deeper connection with this natural marvel, the park offers an array of trail options. Whether you prefer a leisurely twenty-minute stroll leading to some of the largest arches in the park or an adventurous trek into lesser-explored areas, Arches National Park caters to all levels of hiking enthusiasts.

Immerse yourself in the splendor of Arches National Park, where nature’s artistry unfolds at every turn.

Food

Please note that food is not available within the park. The closest restaurants are either in the town of Moab, at Dead Horse Point State Park, or at the dinosaur museum at the intersection of Highways 191 and 313 (entrance fee is not required to access the restaurant).

Park Highlights

Delicate Arch

Delicate Arch

People come from all over the world to visit Arches National Park, and visiting Delicate Arch is on the top of many visitors’ to-do lists. In a park with over 2,000 stone arches, this particular free-standing arch has become a widely recognized symbol of the state of Utah and one of the most famous geologic features in the world. The light opening beneath the arch is 46 feet high and 32 feet wide, making it the largest free-standing arch in the park.
Learn More About Delicate Arch Hiking Trail

Balanced Rock

Balanced Rock

A short paved trail leads visitors to the base of Balanced Rock. The landform’s total height is 128 feet, with the huge balanced rock rising 55 feet above its base.

Landscape Arch

Landscape Arch

The longest natural rock span in the world, this arch’s opening is 306 feet wide – 6 feet longer than a football field. A nine story building would easily fit beneath this thin span. In 1991, a massive slab of rock fell from its underside, resulting in an even thinner ribbon of rock.

Spring Wildflowers

Spring Wildflowers

April and May bring a variety of desert wildflowers to Arches.

Double Arch

Double Arch

Located in the Windows Section of Arches National Park, Double Arch was used as a backdrop for portions of the 1988 movie “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade”. Numerous other movies have been filmed in Arches National Park, including Thelma and Louise in 1991.

Park Avenue

Park Avenue

From Park Avenue parking area, the trail descends steeply into a spectacular canyon and continues down the wash to Courthouse Towers. If you have a shuttle driver, you can begin at one point and be picked up at the other. For round-trip hiking, retrace your steps along the trail rather than walk along the park road.

Arches in Winter

Arches in Winter

Winter brings a blanket of pristine snow to Arches, providing dramatic contrast to the surrounding red rocks.

Family Hiking

Family Hiking

There are many family friendly hikes in Arches, including the hike to Turret Arch in the Windows Section.

Biological Soil Crust

Your help is crucial in preserving our trails and protecting the fragile soil that sustains the desert ecosystem. The biological soil crust, also known as cryptobiotic soil, serves as the foundation for desert plant life. This unique black, knobby crust is composed of diverse living organisms and plays a vital role in maintaining the delicate balance of the desert environment.

However, this soil crust is exceptionally delicate and can take several decades to regenerate. Even a single footstep can cause irreparable damage that can persist for years, impacting the entire ecosystem. We urge you to stay on designated roads, routes, and trails to ensure the preservation of this fragile life. In areas where hiking trails are not established, it is advisable to hike on sandy washes or bare rock surfaces to minimize the impact on the soil.

By remaining vigilant and adhering to these guidelines, you contribute to the long-term sustainability of the desert ecosystem and help safeguard its natural beauty for generations to come. Let’s work together to keep all of our trails open and protect the invaluable biological soil crust.

Photography

Arches National Park is a paradise for photographers. Under conditions of constantly changing light, the red rock landscape provides limitless photographic opportunities. Often, the difference between an average photograph and an exceptional photograph is good lighting. Low sun angles at sunrise and sunset can add brilliant color to the red rock. Scattered clouds can also add depth to an image and a passing storm can provide extremely dramatic lighting.

Photographing Delicate Arch

Over one million people visit Arches National Park every year, and just about everyone wants to see all of the major views within the park. One of the most heavily visited arches is Delicate Arch. As a result of its popularity, you should always expect to see people surrounding this world famous arch. Although it may occasionally happen, it is unrealistic to expect a solitary experience around Delicate Arch. Be courteous to other visitors during your visit to the arch, and do not expect people to move away from this world famous landmark during your photographs. Remember that not everyone who visits this arch is a photographer. Most people simply want to experience the joy of standing next to such a beautiful landmark. People can add scale to any photo of Delicate Arch, so make your visit a great shared experience for everyone involved.

Try not to limit your creativity by simply capturing images of iconic places using the same composition as countless photographers before you. Arches National Park contains thousands of arches and vast expanses of breathtaking scenery just waiting for you to introduce your own personal style and interpretation. For those seeking solitude, Arches has much to offer beyond its iconic places. For example, consider a hike to Double O Arch, returning via the Primitive Trail, for some of the most spectacular scenery in the park. Just remember to bring enough memory cards to capture all of the great views!

Best Times / Locations to Photograph

Early Morning	Late Afternoon
Moab Fault	Park Avenue
The Three Gossips	Courthouse Towers
Sheep Rock	Petrified Dunes
The Great Wall	Balanced Rock
Turret Arch	The Garden of Eden
The Spectacles	North and South Windows
Double Arch	Delicate Arch (at end of main trail)
Cache Valley	Fiery Furnace
Wolfe Ranch	Skyline Arch
Landscape Arch	Fins in Devil Garden
Double O Arch	Tower Arch

Partners

Canyonlands Natural History Association

Canyonlands Natural History Association (CNHA) is a nonprofit organization assisting the National Park Service in its educational, interpretive and scientific programs throughout southeast Utah. Known as a "cooperating association," CNHA’s goals include enhancing visitors’ understanding and appreciation of public lands by providing a selection of quality, educational materials for sale in many vistor centers. Twenty percent of these sales is returned to the National Park Service and other federal land management agencies.

CNHA operates the bookstore at Arches Visitor Center.

Friends of Arches and Canyonlands Parks

The Friends of Arches and Canyonlands Parks: Bates Wilson Legacy Fund provides direct support to Arches and Canyonlands national parks and Natural Bridges and Hovenweep national monuments in order to enhance existing projects in these spectacular areas, and to conserve the land and its cultural treasures for present and future generations to enjoy.

This mission honors the legendary work of Superintendent Bates Wilson, who came to Arches in 1949, inspiring and leading the effort that resulted in the establishment of Canyonlands National Park in 1964. The Friends Group offices are in the Rock House behind Arches Visitor Center, where Bates once lived with his family.

From cool stream-side hikes to spectacular sandstone arches, the Moab area is full of exciting day-hikes outside of the national parks. All of the trails on this page are on Bureau of Land Management land and most are pet friendly. What follows is just a taste of what Moab has to offer outside of the national parks.

• Amphitheater Loop

  Highlights: Broad sweeping views and solitude.

  Length: 2.8 miles round trip.

  Pet Friendly: Yes

  Trailhead: Access is across SR 128 from Hittle Bottom Boat launch. Park at Hittle Bottom. Hittle Bottom is approximately 22 miles from the intersection of Hwy 191 and SR 128.

  Description: Walk wash bottoms, around boulders and over benches meandering in the Moenkopi and Cutler sandstones. Follow cairns to stay on the trail. The trail ascends 250 feet for that sweeping view of the Colorado River corridor.

  

  Trail Map

• Corona Arch Trail

  Highlights: Corona Arch (140 by 105 foot opening) and adjacent Bow Tie Arch; also views of the Colorado River and a large slickrock canyon. The Corona Arch Trail was designated as a National Recreation Trail on May 30, 2018.

  Length: 3 miles round trip.

  Pet Friendly: No

  Type: Constructed trail and slickrock. This is a hiking-only trail.

  Trailhead: On Utah Scenic Byway 279, 10 miles west of the Utah 279/U.S. 191 junction.

  Learn More About The Corona Arch Hike

  

  Trail Map

• Dellenbaugh Tunnel

  Highlights: Views of the Henry Mountains and beyond and the slot & pouroff into Spring Canyon.

  Length: 3 to 4 miles round trip depending on which middle segment you choose

  Pet Friendly: Yes

  Trailhead: From the Dellenbaugh parking lot, on the Secret Spire Jeep Safari route, 2.2 miles west of the Dubinky Well/ The Needle road junction, 6.5 miles northwest of SR-313/Dubinky Well road junction, 8.4 miles from the US-191/SR-313 junction.

  Description: Read the info on the kiosk. From the parking lot follow the trail marked with sage green paint dots on slickrock for 1/2 mile. The map sign at this trail junction shows a slickrock ridge route-1 mi (right) and a grassy plain route-1/2 mi (left). Both lead to the single trail going to the Tunnel-1/2 mi. Walk through the tunnel and over to the edge of the canyon. Sit on the limestone ledge and drink some water before the walk back to the car.

  

  Trail Map

• Fisher Towers Trail

  Highlights: Close up views of the Fisher Towers and Onion Creek area. Distant views include the Colorado River, Castle Valley, Fisher Mesa, and the Book Cliffs.

  Length: 2.2 miles one-way to ridge at trail’s end; allow 4 hours round trip.

  Pet Friendly: No

  Trailhead: Off Utah Scenic Byway 128. At 21 miles east of the Utah 128/US 191 junction, turn right and go 2.2 miles on an improved dirt road to a parking lot.

  Description: From the parking lot (please sign in at register box), the trail goes down a short set of steps and then runs to the left out onto a small slickrock-covered ridge. Follow the ridge away from the main cliffs until just after it narrows and then go left down into the ravine through a small cut on the left side of the ridge. From the bottom of the ravine the trail, heads steeply up and then begins to wind directly beneath the Fisher Towers. After swinging around the largest tower, The Titan, the trail ascends and ends on a ridge with a panoramic view.
  The Fisher Towers are composed of Moenkopi and Cutler sandstones, and have eroded into many fantastical shapes. Climbers occasionally scale these mudstone towers (be cautious of hiking directly below a climber!).
  Note: This trail has a western exposure and can be exceptionally hot on summer afternoons. Mountain bikes are not allowed on this trail.

  

  Trail Map

• Grandstaff Canyon

  Highlights: Perennial clear stream in scenic canyon and Morning Glory Natural Bridge, which is 243 feet long and the sixth-longest natural rock span in the United States.

  Length: 2 miles to Morning Glory Bridge; allow 4 hours round trip.

  Pet Friendly: Yes

  Trailhead: On Utah Scenic Byway 128, three miles east of junction with U.S. 191.

  Description: From the parking area next to Utah 128, follow the trail that starts on the left side of the stream. Keep going upstream for about 1.5 miles. Morning Glory Natural Bridge is located at the end of the second side canyon on the right. Follow the trail to where it crosses the stream at the mouth of the side canyon. Cross the stream, then follow the trial up a steep slope into the side canyon. Morning Glory Bridge is located at the end of the trail about 0.5 miles up the canyon from the stream. Do not touch the poison ivy that grows below the pool under the bridge! Poison ivy plants have shiny leaves with serrated edges in dusters of three.

  

  Trail Map

• Hidden Valley Trail

  Highlights: Good views of the Moab Valley and Behind the Rocks. Trail connects with the southern end of the Moab Rim four-wheel drive trail.

  Length: 2 miles to pass at north end of Hid den Valley; allow 3 hours round trip.

  Pet Friendly: Yes

  Trailhead: Drive 3 miles south from Moab on U.S. 191 and turn right onto Angel Rock Road. After two blocks, turn right onto Rimrock Road and drive to parking area.

  Description: From the parking area, follow the trail up to the base of the Moab Rim and then ascend a series of steep switchbacks. At the top of the switchbacks, the trial heads north and enters Hidden Valley – a broad shelf between the top of the Moab Rim and Spanish Valley. Follow the trail to a low rise that separates the two halves of Hidden Valley and continue along through the northern section to a point where the trail swings to the left and goes over a low pass. At the pass, the hiker will be rewarded with a view of the large sandstone fins of the Behind the Rocks area. The trail continues down the west side of the pass for about 1/3 mile where it meets the Moab Rim four-wheel-drive trail. The hike may be extended to the Colorado River by following the Moab Rim four-wheel-drive trail to its starting point.
  NOTE: During the late afternoon, in the summer, this trail is largely in the shade of higher cliffs.

  

  Trail Map

• Hunter Canyon

  Highlights: Free-flowing stream during spring months with cottonwood trees and pools. A large arch is located high on the right-hand side of the canyon about a half mile from the trailhead.

  Length: 2 miles one-way; allow 4 hours round trip.

  Pet Friendly: Yes

  Trailhead: On Kane Creek Canyon Road 7.5 miles west of its intersection with U.S. 191 (Canyon is on the left, one mile beyond the switchbacks)

  Description: From the parking area at the mouth of the canyon, follow the hiker-established path about two miles up the canyon until the route gets blocked by brush.

  

  Trail Map

• Juniper Loop Trail

  Highlights: Sweeping views of the Sandflats Reacreation Area.

  Length: 2 miles Round Trip

  Pet Friendly: Yes

  Trailhead:The trailhead is located in the Sand Flats Recreation Area. It is 6.3 miles passed the entrance station on the north side of the Sand Flats road. A parking area is provided. The trail is also accessible to campers in the Juniper campground. This is a fee area.

  Description: The trail climbs a small mesa and circles the mesa top, offering scenic views of the Grandstaff and Mill Creek Canyons, the Moab and Porcupine Rims, the La Sal mountain range and the Colorado River channel. The trail is “lollipop” in shape. The “stem” section 0.5 miles in length, begins at the trailhead, travels to the first overlook, backtracks slightly, then climbs westerly to the top of a small mesa where the loop section begins. The loop is about a mile in length and contours with the edge of the mesa over level dirt and slickrock. Sections of the trail follow along steep cliff edges. Use Caution! Follow trail markers to avoid getting lost and damaging resources. Several openings on the rim provide panoramic views of the features listed above. After circling the mesa top, the trail rejoins the “stem” route back to the parking area.

  

  Trail Map

• Ken’s Lake Trail

  Highlights: Family friendly short jaunts near water sources for more nature. Circumnavigate the reservoir, walk to Faux Falls, and enjoy the Ken’s Lake Rock Loop nature trail. Faux Falls is created by a diversion piping water from Mill Creek to fill up the reservoir.

  Length: Total of 3 miles

  Pet Friendly: Yes

  Trailhead: There are various locations around the Ken’s Lake campground complex. Ken’s Lake is ten miles south of Moab. Turn off of Highway 191 seven miles south of Moab onto Old Airport Road. Turn south onto La Sal Mountain Loop Road. Follow the signs to Ken’s Lake on County Road 175.

  

  Trail Map

• Longbow Arch Trail

  Highlights: Great views of Behind the Rocks, LaSal Mountains, rock art near the beginning of the trail, and 60 foot Longbow Arch.

  Pet Friendly: No

  Length: 1.2 miles one-way from the Poison Spider parking lot to base of arch.

  Trailhead: The trail begins at the Poison Spider parking area, 5.9 miles from Hwy 191 on Hwy 279. Trailhead is near restroom.

  Description: The trail climbs moderately after leaving the parking lot, passing several spurs to rock art panels, then climbs steeply for a short distance on slickrock. It levels out 200 feet above the parking lot. The trail then skirts the 4WD route and enters a broad canyon. Near the end of the canyon the trail passes through a narrow side canyon where the arch is high on the left wall. A primitive trail continues up below the arch. Return via the same route.

  

  Trail Map

• Moab Rim Trail

  Highlights: Good views of the Colorado River, the Moab Valley, and the sandstone fins of the Behind the Rocks area.

  Length: 3 miles to connection with Hidden Valley Trail.

  Trailhead: On Kane Creek Boulevard, 2.6 miles northwest of its intersection with U.S. Highway 191 in Moab (.1 mile beyond the first cattle-guard).

  Description: From the parking area, follow the 4-wheel-drive vehicle route up the slickrock ramps of Kayenta sandstone. After about 1.4 miles, the route reaches a viewpoint of the Moab Valley. Follow the vehicle route south and then down through a slickrock area located between two large domes of Navajo sandstone. At the base of the slickrock area, the route continues along a wash bottom and then up a large sand hill (several routes up). From the top of the sand hill, the route branches twice to the left. The first spur on the left leads to a viewpoint high above Spanish Valley. The second spur route ends after 200 yards at another view point. Ahead to the south, the view is dominated by a long ridge of massive sandstone fins. From the second spur, the main route drops down into a wash and then climbs in an easterly direction to its terminus just below the pass to Hidden Valley.

  

  Trail Map

• Pinto Arch Trail

  Highlights: Although a short trail, hikers are treated with several large alcoves containing hanging gardens, as well as scenic views of the Colorado River coursing its way through the canyon 500 feet below. At trail’s end you can stand under attractive Pinto Arch with its 30-foot span. The trail can also be combined with the popular Corona Arch Trail.

  

  Length: 2.1 miles roundtrip; 3.3 miles if combined with the Corona Arch Trail.

  Trailhead: On SR 279, 10 miles west of the SR 279/US Highway 191 junction. This is the same starting point for the Corona Arch Trail.

  Description: Access to the first trail spur going to Pinto Arch occurs a half mile along the Corona Arch Trail. As it starts, most of the trail is on slickrock rather than sand, before transitioning entirely to slickrock for the last half mile of the hike to the arch. The trail works its way across slickrock toward several large Navajo Sandstone alcoves. As it nears the alcoves the trail makes a short climb to get up to the bench below the alcoves. Then it easily climbs up other stone benches for a couple hundred yards before Pinto Arch comes into view. The rest of the route to the arch is plainly evident. Hikers only interested in going to Pinto Arch will take the same route back to the Corona Arch Trail and parking lot. Alternatively, hikers continuing on to Corona Arch can take a second 0.12 mile spur that rejoins the Corona Arch Trail a tenth of a mile above the first spur. Hikers returning from Corona Arch that wish to continue on to Pinto Arch would also be able to use this spur to connect to the main Pinto Arch Trail. Creating the Pinto Arch Trail as a designated trail creates its own scenic destination, but also offers stronger hikers going to Bow-Tie and Corona Arches an extension to their hike length, and the benefit of seeing a third great arch up close.

  

  Trail Map

• Poison Spider Bench

  Highlights: Views of the Colorado River

  Length: 1.1 miles one-way to overlook of river; allow 2 hours round trip

  Pet Friendly: Yes

  Trailhead: From the Poison Spider Mesa trail parking lot, on Utah Scenic Byway 279, 6 miles west of the Utah 279/U.S. 191 junction.

  Description: From the parking lot, follow the 4×4 road for ¼ mile. The 230 feet of elevation gain is essentially along this ¼ mile. A sign has been posted to designate the fork to this ambling foot path. Then continue out 1.1 miles on the bench trail one-way.

  

  Trail Map

• Portal Overlook Trail

  Highlights: Panoramic views of the Moab Valley, the La Sal Mountains, the Colorado River, and the south portal.

  Length: 2.0 miles to Portal Overlook; allow 3 hours round trip.

  Pet Friendly: Yes

  Trailhead: At JayCee Park Recreation Site on Utah Scenic Byway 279, 4.2 miles west of the Utah 279/U.S. 191 junction.

  Description: From JayCee Park, follow the hiking trail up the Colorado towards the river “portal. ” From the trailside visitor register box, the trail begins its climb to the viewpoint. After several switchbacks, the trail follows a cairned route up “ramps” of Kayenta sandstone to the overlook. Be cautious around the overlook as there are no safety fences. This trail is frequently used by mountain bikers riding down from the mesa top.
  Note: During late afternoons in the summer, this trail is largely in the shade of higher cliffs.

  

  Trail Map

• Red Onion Trail

  Highlights: The Red Onion Trail is a primitive hiking loop that connects to the Fisher Towers Trail. The trail is a challenging 2.4 mile loop that winds through narrow washes and canyons with striking views of Fisher Towers, Onion Creek and the Professor Valley.

  Length: 2.4 miles as a loop. 0.2 mile of this loop is on the Fisher Towers Trail.

  Trailhead: Trailhead location: 38.718697, -109.320818

  NOTE: The Red Onion Trailhead is recommended for high clearance vehicles only. If you do not have a four wheel drive vehicle, it is recommended to start from the Fisher Towers Trailhead.

  Directions: From Moab, take Utah Scenic Byway Hwy 128. 20.2 miles east of the Hwy 128/US 191 junction, turn right onto Onion Creek Road (dirt road) and continue 1.5 miles. After the third creek crossing, turn left onto the entrance road to the trailhead, which is recommended only with a high clearance vehicle. Continue 0.7 mile up the road to its end and the Red Onion Trailhead.

  Description:

  Begin hike from the trailhead kiosk. The trail climbs a short hill and continues for 300 feet to a trail junction. From this junction the trail is a loop, and you can choose to hike in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. To make a full loop of the Red Onion Trail, you will hike on the Fisher Towers Trail for 0.2 miles. You can add some extra mileage to your hike by hiking out and back on the Fisher Towers Trail, just don’t miss the turn off to Red Onion Trail on your way back.

  This hiking trail is rated as difficult. The route requires occasional scrambling that requires the use of hands to go around obstacles. The route weaves in and out of drainages, and hikers should be attentive to the arrow signs that mark the route.

  

  Trail Map

• Stairmaster

  Highlights: This trail is all about the aerobic exercise. Great views into the Colorado River.

  Length: 0.8 miles one-way out-and-back

  Pet Friendly: Yes

  Trailhead: From the Moab Rim 4×4 Road, on Kane Creek Blvd 1.9 miles west of 500 West.

  Description: Steep Slickrock, the foot path parallels the Moab Rim 4×4 trail. It gains 910 Feet of elevation in .8 miles.

  

  Trail Map

• Sylvester

  Highlights: View of rock pinnacles. It is a traverse beneath Castle Rock and the Priest and Nuns formations.

  Length: 3.27 miles one way out-and-back

  Pet Friendly: Yes

  Trailhead: Take SR-128 to Professor Valley Ranch Road then 2.2 miles south to the trail head.

  Description: The trail is shared with equestrian users. It is upon sandstone and shale ledges in a broad tributary valley of Professor Creek. As the trail progresses it climbs 810 feet to a rise looking into Castle Valley.

  

  Trail Map

• Trough Springs Trail

  Highlights: Views of the La Sal Mountains from the plateau, the trail continues through riparian terrain that has water year round.

  Length: 2.5 miles one-way

  Trailhead: Access is out Highway 191 south of Moab 32 miles to the Canyon Rims Recreation Area turnoff. Follow this road 28 miles to Hatch Point. Beyond the Hatch Point campground, look for signs to Trough Springs.

  Description: This trail descends 1100 feet in elevation from the plateau into Kane Creek Canyon. Cairns mark the trail a former cattle route. The water cannot be drank without purification.

  

  Trail Map

Essential Equipment Checklist

Drinking Water

This is a high desert environment. Bring one gallon per person, per day.

Food

Good Footwear

Tennis or running shoes with rubbery soles are adequate for short slickrock and stream hikes.

Sun Protection

Sun hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses

Route map or trail guide

First-aid kit

Insect Repellent

Day Pack

Cool Season Hikes

• Long pants
• Sweater and gloves
• Earband
• Coat and/or gear

Pet Etiquette and Local Laws

There are many pet-friendly trails and accommodations to choose from in the Moab area. By taking a few precautions and observing local rules and regulations, traveling with your pet can be a very rewarding experience.

NATIONAL PARKS
Activities with pets are very limited within the National Parks of southern Utah. Pets are prohibited from the backcountry as well as on trails. Pets must be leashed at all times when outside a vehicle and may be walked only on roads or in parking lots. Pets may accompany visitors in campgrounds.

OTHER PUBLIC LANDS
Generally, pets may accompany you as you hike on public land in Canyon Country outside of the national parks. (Check out our Hiking Page for details on some popular pet friendly Moab area hikes.)