Delicate Arch
Grand County, Utah
Details
Distance
3.18 miles
Elevation Gain
554 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Description
Added by Andy Best
Bask in amazing views and take amazing shots of one of Utah's most iconic arches. Stay once the sun goes down for an unreal view of the night sky and for the crowds to take off.
I headed out to the trailhead because I really wanted to shoot the super moon with the Delicate Arch. It was absolutely fantastic, especially during such a full moon. Everything was bathed in a soft glow, it was like I was on another planet actually. It was amazing to sit in silence and to try to comprehend the power it took to shape the beautiful landscape.
Something to consider...I didn't really need a headlamp, but due to the cliffs everywhere I'd suggest one. Be ready for some crowds, but if you want the place all to yourself stay past sunset and late into the night. Everyone leaves and it's absolutely wonderful!
After you're done, hit up Moab Brewery in town. Get the beer in the can, it's full strength. :)
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Reviews
I’ve hiked this multiple times and it’s always a great experience. It can be steep and there is a small amount of exposure, but it is still accessible to families with children. I last hiked it over Presidents’ Day weekend and there was some ice, so be prepared for that.
5.0
Apr 2021 - Set out at sunrise and got to the arch around 8am. Still crowded. But a very cool site. Did not spend too much time here because of the crowds but glad we did it.
4.0
The hike can get busy and crowded and there will be a wait to even take a picture. A tip...if you go later in the day the crowds will have lessened and fewer people to get in your shot.
5.0
Great hike to the most popular arch in the park. While crowded, the scenery is beautiful, trail is well marked. Be prepped for waiting in a short line for photos at the arch unobstructed. Along the way there are cool petroglyphs to view.
5.0
This is on the Utah plate for good reason. It is wild how something like that has formed naturally. Gets crowded early for sure. One time I camped out of the NP but was able to see the area from a distance and it was packed on a weekday at 630A. Bring lots of water if doing it during the day.
4.0
I hiked this at sunset on a Sunday night and the crowds seemed to be much smaller than advertised. It also was 102 degrees the day I hiked, but once the sun started to set it was manageable. Carry enough water and wear performance wear and you should be OK. Its a bucketlist experience for a reason.
5.0
The Arch itself is so one of a kind and amazing! the hike to get to it is a good hike, not to strenuous, but a good workout. If you go during the day you will most likely be hiking with quite a few other people, I was afraid it would take away from the experience, but the immaculate arch drowns out the people!
5.0
I got fantastic views and shots of one of Utah's most iconic arches. I stayed once the sun went down and got great views of the night sky and the crowd took off.
5.0
Leave No Trace
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Nearby
Fiery Furnace Loop
Summit Elephant Butte
Climb Owl Rock in Arches National Park
Balanced Rock Loop
Double Arch
Hike the Window Arch Loop
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