Broken Arch Trail – Arches National Park
Step Into a Hidden Desert Wonderland
You step off the sandy trailhead and the desert immediately opens before you. The sun warms your shoulders, the La Sal Mountains gleam on the horizon, and ahead, a sandstone arch rises like a window cut into the sky. Despite its name, Broken Arch is not broken at all—it’s a graceful span glowing gold and orange in the shifting light, framed by fins of red rock and desert brush.
Unlike the crowded path to Delicate Arch, the Broken Arch Trail feels quieter, like you’ve stumbled into a secret corner of Arches National Park. Families love it for the playful sand and short distance, while photographers treasure it for the evening glow. It’s one of those hikes that proves Moab’s magic often lies just beyond the road.
Broken Arch Trail Quick Stats
Trailhead: Sand Dune Arch/Broken Arch Parking Area (main park road)
Distance: 1.7 miles (loop option)
Elevation Gain: ~180 feet
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (sand, slickrock, some uneven footing)
Time Needed: 1–1.5 hours
Best Season: Spring & Fall; winter offers solitude
Highlights: Sandstone fins, sweeping desert views, golden light on Broken Arch.
Trail Experience
The hike begins near Sand Dune Arch, where soft sand cushions your steps and towering fins close in like a canyon. The trail then crosses open desert where lizards dart across the path and desert cottontails sometimes pause in the shade of yucca. Spring brings splashes of wildflowers like orange globe mallow and yellow prince’s plume.
As you climb slickrock domes, the views widen toward the snowcapped La Sal Mountains. Soon the arch itself comes into view—a rugged, fractured span that looks as though it cracked but held, defying time and gravity. Beneath the arch, the light glows in late afternoon, creating a natural frame for sky and stone.
Continue the loop through narrow sandstone corridors, where echoes bounce between walls, before circling back toward the trailhead. Many hikers link this outing with Sand Dune Arch and Skyline Arch for a perfect half-day of exploring Arches’ middle section.
⚠️ Safety Callout
Stay Safe on the Broken Arch Trail
Carry plenty of water—there is no shade except near Sand Dune Arch.
Protect the fragile cryptobiotic soil—always stay on trail or slickrock.
Expect uneven surfaces—sand can be tiring, and slickrock slippery after rain.
Do not climb on the arch—erosion and safety rules protect this fragile formation.
Nearby Adventures
Sand Dune Arch – A shaded, sandy slot just steps from the same parking lot.
Skyline Arch – A short, easy trail to one of the widest spans in Arches.
Devils Garden – A few minutes’ drive north, this trail leads to iconic Landscape Arch and beyond.
Together, these trails create a mini-itinerary perfect for families or first-time visitors.
FAQ – Broken Arch Trail
Is Broken Arch really broken?
No. The arch is intact. A visible crack across the top inspired the name, but the span is stable.
How long does the hike take?
Most hikers finish the 1.7-mile loop in 1–1.5 hours.
Is the trail kid-friendly?
Yes. Kids enjoy the sand and slickrock, though small children may need help on uneven sections.
Does Broken Arch have shade?
Very little. Sand Dune Arch next door is shaded, but Broken Arch is in open desert.
Can you see Broken Arch from the road?
No. It’s tucked behind sandstone fins, so you’ll need to hike to see it.
Is the trail crowded?
Not usually. It’s much less busy than Delicate Arch or Devils Garden, making it a great alternative.
Are dogs allowed?
No. Pets are not permitted on trails in Arches National Park.
When is the best time to hike?
Spring and fall offer comfortable temperatures and wildflowers. Winter is quiet and serene. Sunset provides the most dramatic light for photos.
Can I combine this hike with others?
Yes. Pair it with Sand Dune Arch and Skyline Arch for a fun half-day adventure.