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Mesa Arch

Moab, Utah

4.5/5
based on 16 reviews

Details

Distance

0.74 miles

Elevation Gain

164 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Lee Cuellar

Head out on a very easy 0.6 mile loop hike to get great views and shots of historic Mesa Arch. After the quick hike, have enough time to go hit other spots in Arches NP. Plan about 1 hour of hiking and viewing time.

This is an easy 0.6 mile loop. The hike takes you out to Mesa Arch, which is one of the most famous structures of Canyonlands National Park.

If you're out with your camera, you can get amazing shots of the arch with the rugged canyon as your backdrop. Some of the best photos of the arch are at sunrise.

If you're lucky enough, you snagged a campsite Devil's Garden, making it easy for you to keep exploring Arches for a couple of days.

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Features

Photography
Hiking
Easy Parking
Groups
Scenic

Mesa Arch Reviews

Explorer

04/08/16

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.

Explorer

03/21/16

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.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Night Photography at Mesa Arch

Hike the Aztec Butte Trail

Catch a Sunset at Green River Overlook

Hike to Murphy Point

Syncline Loop in Canyonlands NP

Upheaval Dome Overlook