Petrified Dunes Trail: Walking the Ancient Desert Waves

Overview

The Petrified Dunes Trail in Arches National Park is one of the most underrated hikes near Moab — a surreal landscape of frozen sand dunes that solidified into slickrock millions of years ago. This trail gives you a sense of walking across the bones of an ancient desert, where the wind once sculpted sand into towering dunes before time turned them to stone.

There’s no single destination here — it’s more about the journey, the endless views, and the feeling of exploring open slickrock with the La Sal Mountains shimmering on the horizon.

Quick Facts

Distance: 1.8 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: ~120 feet
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (uneven slickrock, minimal shade)
Time Required: 1–1.5 hours
Trail Type: Out-and-back (unmarked slickrock route)
Trailhead: Arches National Park – Petrified Dunes Trailhead
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for cooler temperatures and vibrant light
Dog Friendly: No (dogs are not allowed on any Arches NP trails)
Facilities: Restrooms at the trailhead, no water available

Getting There

From Moab City Center, drive north on U.S. Highway 191 for 5 miles and turn right into Arches National Park. After passing the entrance station, continue on Arches Scenic Drive for about 11 miles. The Petrified Dunes Trailhead is on the right side of the road, between the Courthouse Towers Viewpoint and Balanced Rock. Parking is limited, so plan to arrive early or visit near sunset for fewer crowds.

What to Expect on the Trail

The hike begins on a well-defined path that quickly transitions into open slickrock. Cairns mark the route, but this trail encourages exploration — you can wander across the rolling sandstone mounds as long as you keep sight of the markers and maintain your bearings.

The “dunes” themselves are ancient Navajo Sandstone formations, sculpted by wind and water into gentle waves and domes. On clear days, the La Sal Mountains rise dramatically to the southeast, offering a stunning contrast of snowcapped peaks against the desert red rock.

Along the way, you’ll spot scattered junipers, desert varnish streaks, and distant views of landmarks like The Windows, Tower of Babel, and Park Avenue. The slickrock can get hot by midday, so early mornings or golden hours are ideal times to hike.

Pro Tip

This is one of the best short hikes in Arches for photographers. The interplay of light on the sandstone, especially during sunrise or sunset, creates endless opportunities for abstract compositions and panoramic shots. Bring a wide-angle lens and plenty of water.

Safety & Trail Etiquette

⚠️ Safety Callout:

  • Heat: There’s no shade and no water. Carry at least 2 liters per person.

  • Footing: Slickrock can be uneven and steep in sections. Watch your step, especially after rain.

  • Navigation: Cairns guide the main route, but if you wander, make sure to backtrack to visible markers.

  • Leave No Trace: Stay on rock surfaces to protect fragile cryptobiotic soil.

When to Go

Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) offer the best conditions. Temperatures are comfortable, skies are clear, and the low sun makes the landscape glow. Winter can also be beautiful, especially after a light dusting of snow. Avoid midday hikes in summer when temperatures can exceed 100°F.

Nearby Hikes

  • Park Avenue Trail – Iconic canyon walk through towering sandstone walls.

  • Balanced Rock Trail – A quick, family-friendly loop around one of Arches’ most famous formations.

  • The Windows Loop – Short hike to massive twin arches with incredible sunrise light.

Why Hike the Petrified Dunes Trail

If you love open landscapes and freedom to roam, this trail is pure joy. There’s something humbling about standing on sandstone that was once a living dune field, shaped by ancient winds and sealed by time. It’s not a trail you check off — it’s one you feel.

FAQ

Is the Petrified Dunes Trail family-friendly?
Yes. It’s a short, relatively gentle hike, though young kids should be supervised on the slickrock.

Do I need a permit to hike here?
No permits are required, but you’ll need a valid Arches National Park entry pass.

Can I see arches from the trail?
Not directly, but nearby viewpoints and short drives lead to many iconic formations like Balanced Rock and The Windows.

Is the trail marked?
Cairns mark the main route, but part of the fun is free exploration — just keep visual contact with the trail markers.

Plan Your Visit

Before you go, check the Arches National Park website for current conditions and road closures. Bring sunscreen, water, and sturdy shoes — and give yourself time to slow down and soak in the vastness of this ancient landscape.