Hero image of Tunnel Arch in Arches National Park, viewed from the Devils Garden Trail with red sandstone fins and a clear desert sky.

Hiking Tunnel Arch Trail in Arches National Park

Short Answer: The Tunnel Arch Trail is an easy 0.8-mile round trip hike starting from the Devils Garden Trailhead in Arches National Park. It takes most people 20–30 minutes total, with minimal elevation gain (~100 feet). Families with kids, couples, and photographers often spend longer enjoying the views.

Quick Facts infographic for Tunnel Arch Trail in Arches National Park, showing distance 0.8 miles, 100 feet elevation gain, easy difficulty, 20–30 minutes average time, Devils Garden Trailhead, and best seasons spring and fall.

Quick Facts

  • Trail Distance: 0.8 miles round trip

  • Elevation Gain: ~100 feet

  • Difficulty: Easy

  • Trailhead: Devils Garden Trailhead, Arches National Park

  • Average Time: 20–30 minutes

  • Best Seasons: Spring & fall (mild weather), but open year-round

  • Family-Friendly: Yes, great for kids

  • Permit Required: No (just a park entry pass)

Why Tunnel Arch Is Worth the Stop

The first time I hiked Tunnel Arch, I was headed toward Landscape Arch. I almost skipped the short spur trail — but I’m glad I didn’t. Tunnel Arch isn’t as famous as Delicate or Landscape, but it has its own character: a dramatic window carved high into a sandstone wall. When morning light hits the arch, the colors glow in orange and red.

What I love about this hike is how little effort it takes for the reward. You can see something extraordinary in less than half an hour, then decide if you want to keep going deeper into Devils Garden.

Getting to Tunnel Arch Trailhead

From Moab, Utah:

  • Drive 5 miles north on US-191 to the Arches National Park entrance.

  • From the entrance station, continue on the main scenic drive for 18 miles until the road ends at Devils Garden Trailhead.

  • There is a large paved parking lot with restrooms and water.

Pro Tip: Parking fills quickly from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM in spring and fall. If you can, arrive early or later in the afternoon.

Safety Callout

⚠️ Desert Hiking Safety
Even short hikes in Arches can be surprisingly intense.

  • Always carry water, even if the hike is less than a mile.

  • Wear sturdy shoes; loose sand and slickrock can be slippery.

  • Use sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses — shade is almost nonexistent.

  • Stay on marked trails to protect fragile desert soil.

     

Desert Hiking Safety callout for Tunnel Arch Trail in Arches National Park, showing icons for water, sturdy shoes, sun protection, and staying on the trail.

Step-by-Step Trail Guide

  • Start from the Devils Garden Trailhead at the far north end of the park road.

  • Walk on the wide, well-marked Devils Garden Trail for about 0.25 miles.

  • Look for a signed junction pointing to Tunnel Arch (on the right).

  • Follow the short spur trail until you reach the viewpoint.

You’ll see Tunnel Arch high above, cut into the sandstone fin. Unlike some other arches, this isn’t one you can walk under — it’s more like a natural skylight in the wall.

Tunnel Arch Trail for Different Visitors

  • Families with Kids: Expect about 40 minutes round trip with photo stops and kid pacing.

  • Couples & Casual Hikers: 20–30 minutes is plenty.

  • Photographers: Plan 45–60 minutes if you’re chasing golden-hour light.

When to Go

  • Spring (March–May): Perfect temperatures, but also the busiest season.

  • Summer (June–August): Extreme heat; hike before 9 AM or after 6 PM.

  • Fall (September–October): Cooler weather, fewer crowds than spring.

  • Winter (November–February): Quiet and peaceful, though trails can be icy.

Best Time for Photos

  • Morning Light: The arch glows as sunlight hits it from the east.

  • Late Afternoon: Softer shadows, fewer crowds.

  • Bring a zoom lens if you want close-up detail of the arch face.

Pairing with Other Arches

One of the best things about Tunnel Arch is how easily it connects with nearby highlights:

  • Pine Tree Arch (0.2 miles farther): Larger span you can walk under.

  • Landscape Arch (0.8 miles farther): The longest arch in the park, a must-see.

  • Full Devils Garden Loop: If you’re up for adventure, continue to Double O Arch and beyond.

FAQs About Tunnel Arch Trail

How long does the Tunnel Arch hike take?
About 20–30 minutes round trip, not including time for photos.

Is Tunnel Arch Trail kid-friendly?
Yes, it’s one of the most accessible hikes in Arches.

Do I need a permit?
No special permit — just your Arches entrance fee or park pass.

Is Tunnel Arch open in winter?
Yes, but the trail may be icy. Microspikes can help.

Can I walk under Tunnel Arch?
No, the arch is set high in the wall and only viewable from below.

Insider Tips

  • If you’re short on time, Tunnel Arch + Pine Tree Arch is the perfect quick combo.

  • Bring binoculars — you can sometimes spot ravens soaring through the arch.

  • Restrooms and water are available at Devils Garden Trailhead, not on the trail.

Next Steps for Planning Your Visit

  • Decide on your itinerary: Will you stop just at Tunnel Arch, or continue to Pine Tree and Landscape Arch?

  • Pack smart: Water, hat, sunscreen, sturdy shoes, even for this short trail.

  • Download offline maps: Cell service is unreliable in Arches.

  • Arrive early: Beat the parking crunch and summer heat.

Before You Go

Tunnel Arch is one of those little surprises that make Arches National Park special. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it delivers views that are pure red rock magic. Whether you’re warming up for a big hike or just want a short stroll to stretch your legs, don’t skip this one.

If you’re planning your first trip to Arches, I recommend starting with Tunnel Arch. It’s an easy win — and a reminder of how much beauty you can find here in just a few steps.

👉 Next up: Pine Tree Arch Trail Guide | Landscape Arch Trail Guide | Complete Devils Garden Trail Guide