If you’re looking for open air, less crowds, and amazing views that afford up close encounters with breathtaking red rock arches, this is one of the best Moab attractions for you! Located outside the National Parks, the Corona Arch Trail doesn’t see as much traffic; however, 1.5 miles into the hike, you are rewarded with tremendous views of the 140-foot wide Corona Arch. While this trail can at times feel like an adventure course given its safety cables and ladders to guide you on your way, rest assured that kids and dogs often complete the entire 3-mile hike roundtrip, which leaves everyone feeling accomplished, tired, and happy.
Corona Arch Trail Details
Hike Length: 3 miles round trip (allow appx 2 hours to complete the hike)
Trail Type: Road and slick-rock terrain, hikers only (no vehicles or bikes allowed), out-and-back hike
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 440 ft
Trailhead Location: From US 191 in Moab, drive 3 miles north. Take the Utah Scenic Byway 279 (Potash Road) and drive 10 miles to the Corona Arch Trailhead
Pro Tips: Pets are allowed ON A LEASH. Bring plenty of water and sun protection. Wear good hiking shoes and avoid peak hours of extreme heat.
Navigating the Trail and Moab Things to See
The trail starts by heading east to a BLM register and takes you over the railroad tracks. Continue to follow the road through a gap in the slickrock bench above and enjoy the balanced energy of the cairns (a mound of stones built as a memorial or landmark which should not be disturbed) that guide your way along the trail as you head northeast. As you encounter a large sandstone cliff, follow the base of this cliff until you reach the safety cables, which you will use to traverse the slightly exposed section of the trail. Once you reach the top, you’ll see the Corona Arch in the distance. Here, a second safety cable will help you reach the top of the steps carved in sandstone. Head east, climb a short ladder over the ledge, and follow the cairns up to the top of a large bench. From here, it’s a short walk along the wide slickrock bench to the base of Corona Arch; however, take time to soak in the views as you’ll encounter two other arches on this stretch of the hike: Bowtie and Goldbar. Finally, 1.5 miles in, you’ll have reached Corona Arch. The massive, partially freestanding arch will take your breath away is it sits in a beautiful sandstone amphitheater high above Bootlegger Canyon just to the west of Moab.
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