Illustrated trail guide for the Mesa Arch Trail in Canyonlands National Park, showing a 0.6-mile round-trip hike with an elevation profile, simplified trail map, and key tips. The map highlights the trailhead, Mesa Arch, and nearby Grand View Point, while the elevation chart shows a gradual incline. Trail tips include bringing water, watching children near the cliff edge, and visiting at sunrise for photography.

Hike the Mesa Arch Trail in Canyonlands National Park

An easy, iconic sunrise hike with jaw-dropping canyon views

Why Hike Mesa Arch?

If you’re visiting Canyonlands National Park and want one hike that captures the park’s magic in just under a mile, Mesa Arch Trail is it. Perched on the edge of a massive cliff, this short, easy trail leads to a delicate sandstone arch that perfectly frames a dramatic desert canyon—and the La Sal Mountains in the distance.

Most famous at sunrise, when light reflects off the cliffs below and ignites the underside of the arch in a fiery glow, Mesa Arch is both one of the most photographed spots in the Southwest and one of the most accessible.

Whether you’re a serious photographer or a casual hiker, Mesa Arch is a must-see.

Trail Overview

  • Trailhead Location: Island in the Sky District, Canyonlands National Park

  • Distance: 0.6 miles round trip

  • Elevation Gain: ~90 feet

  • Time Required: 30 to 45 minutes

  • Difficulty: Easy

  • Trail Type: Loop or out-and-back

  • Dog Friendly: No (dogs not allowed on national park trails)

  • Permit Required: Park entry fee or national park pass

Getting to the Trailhead

From Moab, take US-191 north to UT-313 and follow signs toward Canyonlands National Park – Island in the Sky District. After entering the park, continue about 6.3 miles. The Mesa Arch parking area will be on your left.

The lot fills quickly around sunrise, so arrive early to find parking and set up your camera or enjoy the peace before the crowds.

Trail Description

1. Starting the Hike

The trail begins just off the parking area with a well-maintained path that meanders gently uphill. The surface alternates between packed dirt, slickrock, and sandstone ledges.

This short loop is family-friendly and clearly marked, with interpretive signs and views opening up early on.

2. Mesa Arch Overlook

After a few hundred yards, the trail climbs slightly and ends at the rim of a massive cliff—and there, delicately perched on the edge, is Mesa Arch. The arch spans about 50 feet and forms a perfect window onto a dramatic canyon carved by the Colorado River, with Washer Woman Arch and Monster Tower visible in the distance.

Be careful—there are no guardrails, and the drop-off is sheer. Stay back from the edge while soaking in the view.

3. Return Loop

You can return via the same route or continue along the loop, which rejoins the main trail after a short detour through scattered junipers and boulders.

What Makes Mesa Arch Special?

  • Stunning Sunrise: One of the best spots in Utah for sunrise photography

  • Short & Accessible: Great for families, kids, and beginner hikers

  • Epic Views: Unobstructed canyon and mountain views through the arch

  • Perfect Photo Op: Iconic frame of the La Sal Mountains

  • Close to Moab: Less than an hour’s drive from town

Best Time to Hike Mesa Arch

🌄 Sunrise

  • The absolute best time for both lighting and experience

  • Arrive 45–60 minutes before sunrise to find a spot

  • Light reflecting off canyon walls illuminates the arch’s underside

☀️ Daytime

  • Still beautiful, but can be crowded

  • Harsh shadows may reduce photo quality

🌙 Winter

  • Crisp air and fewer crowds

  • Snow occasionally decorates the arch and canyon below

What to Bring

  • Water (no water on site)

  • Camera or smartphone

  • Tripod (for sunrise or low-light photos)

  • Sunscreen and a hat

  • Closed-toe shoes or hiking sandals

  • National Park pass or Canyonlands entry fee

Safety Tips

  • Stay well back from the edge of the cliff near the arch

  • No dogs allowed—National Park Service policy

  • Avoid stepping on fragile desert plants—stay on marked trail

  • Do not climb on the arch—this is prohibited and dangerous

  • Be courteous of photographers if arriving during sunrise

Photography Tips

  • Arrive 60 minutes before sunrise to set up

  • Use a wide-angle lens to frame the arch and canyon

  • A tripod is essential for low-light shots

  • Use a small aperture (f/8–f/16) to keep both arch and canyon sharp

  • Don’t block others’ views—this is a shared sunrise

Comparison with Other Moab Arches

Trail Distance Difficulty Sunrise Spot Crowd Level Climb Required
Mesa Arch 0.6 mi Easy Excellent High at sunrise No
Corona Arch 3 mi Moderate Good Moderate Yes (ladder)
Delicate Arch 3 mi Moderate Outstanding Very High Yes (steep)
Bowtie Arch 1.5 mi Moderate Poor Low Minimal

Final Thoughts: Is Mesa Arch Worth It?

Yes, and then some. Mesa Arch is one of the most iconic short hikes in the entire Southwest. The combination of a short trail, incredible views, and world-famous sunrise moments makes it a can’t-miss stop in Canyonlands National Park.

It’s accessible, quick, and unforgettable. Whether you’re hiking with kids or carrying a tripod, you’ll walk away with some of the most breathtaking memories and photos of your trip to Moab.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need a permit?

A: No permit required, but you’ll need to pay the Canyonlands entry fee or use a national park pass.

Q: Can I bring my dog?

A: No, dogs are not allowed on trails in Canyonlands National Park.

Q: Is Mesa Arch safe for kids?

A: Yes, but supervise them closely near the edge there are sheer drop-offs.