Quick Hike to Mesa Arch

What A Beauty

Very easy hike and definitely worth it. There are multiple spots to get photos of the arch so get creative. Just watch where you are standing since there is a major drop off. Crowded like the others have said but I suggest making the stop to take a look for yourself.

Scenic Utah at its Best

Aside from Delicate Arch, Mesa Arch is probably the second most photographed place in Utah. And for good reason: It's awesome! But, that also means that its constantly surrounded by people: In front of, next to, and even on top of the arch. And since its a short hike to get to, that makes it all the more problematic if you're looking for peace and quiet. But all in all, a worthy destination within Canyonlands.

Great photo, but crowded

Dozens of people there to catch the sunrise. Still utterly beautiful, just missing the peace of desert solitude that you can get at other spots. Wished I could have gone in the winter season. Nevertheless, if you have a campsite at Island of the Sky (typically Willow Flat or Dead Horse State Park), spend one daybreak at Mesa Arch.

Photo Party

In my life, I have never seen a larger gaggle of photographers in my life. I mean I get it! The view is stunning and the arch pretty much create a perfect frame for the canyonlands below. If only the photographers knew what the views were like from the bottom, I think we'd be able to dilute their numbers across the park.

Stunning No Matter How Many Pictures You Have Seen

This is one of those places that pictures never will do the in-person experience justice. When I went, my partner and I were the only ones there and that made it even more magical. Sunrise at Mesa Arch is just a fantastic way to start the day. I went in April just before tourist season really kicks off. I would shoot for an off-season visit (late fall-early spring) for less people.

Crowded, but Can't Miss It

This is a definite if you are in the Island in the Sky section of the park. I did not realize that Canyonlands was split into separate entrances and so Mesa Arch is only accessible through the Island in in the Sky section. This is so easy, it is really not a hike. A short trail about .5 miles takes you to this iconic arch. Be sure to take photos from all angles of this arch. There is so much that you can capture through the arch itself and it is a beautiful place. It is very popular, so very crowded. I highly recommend going in the am or pm. This is one of the top sunrise photography spots in all of Arches, Canyonlands and Dead Horse State Park, so if you are going to do sunrise photos, get there early.

Iconic

Iconic place for photographers. Crowded and easy to access in reality, but no less wonderful. The canyons below seem to stretch on forever.

Beautiful But Crowded

Mesa Arch is a gorgeous spot. The way the arch perfectly frames Island in the Sky is picture perfect - but don't expect getting that picture to be easy. Since this is such a short hike and so near the entrance of the park the spot will be crowded with tourists and getting a shot with just the arch in the frame it will require some waiting. Also, please do not walk on the arch. There are signs stating it is not allowed yet I saw so many people doing it on my trip.

A must see

If you are visiting the Island In The Sky district in Canyonlands then you have to check Mesa Arch off of the To Do List. The trailhead is right off the main highway and the trail itself is short and easy. Perfect for families and people of every ability. Don't leave Canyonlands without seeing it!

I loved this hike and the views, it was easy and didn't take long at all which was nice for a day when we had a lot else to do. The only thing that makes it a little less exciting were the massive crowded standing on and around the arch making it nearly impossible to get a photo without anyone in it.

This iconic spot is extremely popular for sunrise when the arch glows with the morning light. Winter when it's very cold out is your best chance for avoiding large groups of photographers.

Beautiful view from here and definitely worth the early rise to watch the sunrise.

Super short hike to this, which equals lots and lots of people visiting, but that's just because the views really are that good!

Wonderful spot for catching/photographing the sunrise.