Mesa Arch Trail is a well-paved and simple trekking path leading to its namesake landmark, which stretches majestically across the sky. The arch is thick and wide, framing a viewpoint of red jagged rock formations in the forefront and snowy peaks on the horizon. Wander along the gentle path with your family and view the wonderful scenery around you.
Wear a hat for a shield from the sun and make sure to bring sufficient water and snacks in this unforgiving landscape. Pick up a nature guide at the trailhead to learn about the local vegetation and geology.
Embark on the trail early in the morning to stay ahead of the crowds. It is a mild loop with a total round-trip distance of 0.5 miles (0.8 kilometers). The path, which consists of slick rock and dirt, is easy to follow throughout the journey.
Arrive at the thick, low-hanging Mesa Arch and enjoy the serene setting. Capture photos of the arch framing the spectacular valley behind it. Pick out the most intriguing landmarks looking east toward the Colorado River. Since the arch frames an eastward-facing vista, it is the ideal spot from which to view the sunrise. Note how the ceiling of the arch appears to glow bright red as the sun begins its ascent.
Stay the night at one of the nearby campsites, such as the Willow Flat Campground or the Dead Horse Point State Park. Bring your own water for the former. Marvel at the countless stars that make up the clear night’s sky.
The park is open to the public at all times. Pay a fee per vehicle for a weekly park pass or purchase an annual pass granting entry to over 2,000 national park sites.
Mesa Arch Trail is in the Island in the Sky district in Canyonlands National Park, 38 miles (61 kilometers) southwest of Moab. Drive here from the city in about 50 minutes. Leave the car in the parking lot next to the road and follow the well-marked signs to the trailhead.
