Mesa Arch, Utah

Total Distance: 0.7 miles
Elevation Gain: 85 feet

Trail Type: Loop
Difficulty: Easy

The Hike: Mesa Arch sits on the edge of a 1,000 foot cliff that gives hikers views of the deep, winding canyons that make up the park, and is considered the most photographed arch in the world. The hike to get to this scenic spot is far easier than most hikes in the area, and can be done in less than a half hour. The trail leading up to the arch is smooth and mostly level – and could honesty be done in pajamas.

Sunrise is the most popular time to view this arch as the rising sun paints the bottom of the arch a bright orange, and casts a warm hue over the surrounding canyons. Caution is advised in the area as there are no guardrails preventing visitors from taking a 1,000 foot fall off the canyon rim.

 

The Details: Start by parking in the Mesa Arch parking lot off of Grand View Point Road. Follow signs towards the arch, and keep walking on this smooth trail until you reach the edge of the cliff where the arch sits. After taking in the views, continue down the trail until it loops back to your car.

The Mesa Arch parking lot is small, and will be most crowded at sunrise.

Gear: For this hike, we recommend bringing along either the Winter or Summer Day Hike Essentials, depending on the season.

*The information in this article is for planning purposes only. Actual trail conditions may vary depending on environmental factors. It is always advised to get the latest trail information from a park office or ranger before you begin your hike.


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Goblin’s Lair (Chamber of the Basilisk), Utah