Mesa Arch Trailhead — Attraction in Moab

Mesa Arch is a small arch on the eastern edge of the Island in the Sky mesa in Canyonlands National Park Utah. Mesa Arch is a spectacular natural stone arch perched at the edge of a cliff with vast views of canyons, Monster Tower, Washer Woman Arch, Airport Tower, and the La Sal Mountains in the distance. Access is via a relatively easy hiking trail, just a half-mile long from the park road. Mesa Arch is a perfect trail for beginners, families with small children or light hikers, and one of Canyonlands National Park's most iconic vistas. It’s easy and short, and a detailed display at the trailhead explains how to hike the trail. Although the NPS manages this trail for beginners, it has something for everybody, and halfway along the short loop you’re treated to spectacular Mesa Arch. Drive 6.3 miles south of the Island in the Sky Visitor Center and turn left (east) into the Mesa Arch Parking Area. The trail is well marked and partly on slickrock. There is no fence to prevent a sure-to-be-fatal fall. Do not climb on the arch. If you look carefully, you can also see another arch from Mesa Arch Overlook — Washer Woman Arch — off to the left when...

The trailhead is located just off the Grand View Point Road in the middle of the parking lot. There are limited parking spaces available at this very popular location, and it can be a nightmare trying to find a space. There are several handicapped parking spaces available right at the trailhead. There is also a two-stall vault toilet at the south end of the parking lot, not only was it not very clean, but you might be standing in line for a while when it gets busy. As for the trailhead, it is a nature lover’s paradise, with breathtaking beauty once you climb the initial rise. The loop trail is approximately 0.6 miles in length with less than 60 feet in elevation gain and would be considered an easy trail. The trail is well-marked as it meanders through a scenic valley, eventually leading you to the majestic Mesa Arch. At the trailhead, there are two interpretive displays about the trail and the area. Make sure to take a bottle of water with you along with some sunscreen and be mindful of your impact on the environment, and 'Leave No...

I have done this trail several times over the years. I would say it's the most popular hiking trail in Canyonlands. It's very simple and family-friendly. When you start off you can take either trail to get to the arch. It's just a loop trail. There are small signs to read about the native places along the way. When you get to the arch, you will often have to wait in line to get a photo in front of the arch because the trail is so popular. Even in the off-season. Please don't be dumb and climb on the arch. There are signs around, but people ignore them. There's a restroom at the trailhead. This is a good trail to take, even in the summer. Photographers - you can get some amazing photos at sunrise...