Mesa Arch

Mesa Arch is one of the most photographed natural arches in the Southwest. This short, easy loop trail through pinyon-juniper forest leads to a stunning pothole arch perched on the edge of a 500-foot cliff in the Island in the Sky district of Canyonlands National Park. Through the arch, hikers are treated to sweeping views of Buck Canyon, the canyon system below, and the snow-capped La Sal Mountains in the distance. At sunrise, light catches the underside of the arch and illuminates it in brilliant shades of orange, red, and gold — a phenomenon that draws photographers from around the world. The trail crosses open slickrock marked with cairns and passes interpretive signs identifying native plants and fragile cryptobiotic soil crusts.

From Moab, drive north on US-191 approximately 11 miles, then turn west onto UT-313. Follow UT-313 about 15 miles to the Canyonlands park entrance. After the entrance station, continue south on Grand View Point Road approximately 6.3 miles from the visitor center and turn left into the Mesa Arch parking area. The small lot fills early, especially at sunrise.

The loop trail begins at the signed trailhead. Traveling clockwise minimizes stair climbing. The path crosses open slickrock marked with cairns and passes through pinyon-juniper woodland before arriving at the arch on the mesa's edge. The arch faces east, which is why sunrise light floods through it so dramatically. After taking in views of Buck Canyon and the La Sal Mountains framed through the arch, the trail loops back to the parking area.