A wide-angle view of Pinto Arch in Moab, Utah, with deep red sandstone cliffs, blue desert sky, and hikers standing beneath the arch for scale. Capture the sense of remoteness and desert beauty. Landscape orientation

Pinto Arch Trail – A Hidden Moab Adventure

Your Secret Arch off Potash Road

If you’ve already hiked Delicate Arch or Corona Arch and are craving something quieter, the Pinto Arch Trail is your chance to discover one of Moab’s true hidden gems. Tucked away along scenic Potash Road, this 3.4-mile out-and-back hike leads to a sweeping sandstone span where solitude is common and desert views stretch for miles.

It’s short enough to squeeze into a half-day, adventurous enough to feel rewarding, and perfectly positioned near other must-see Moab attractions.

Simple infographic panel: ‘Pinto Arch Trail — What to Bring.’ Icons for 2L+ water, sun hat, traction shoes, offline map, dog leash. Desert color palette that matches HikingMoab, clean sans-serif type.

Hiking the Pinto Arch Trail

The adventure begins with a steady climb up a rugged jeep road. After about half a mile, cairns guide you off the vehicle track and onto open slickrock. From here, the desert opens up: undulating sandstone, scattered junipers, and big-sky views in every direction.

Follow the cairns carefully across the rock. This section is fun and feels like true Moab backcountry hiking—route-finding, wide open space, and very little shade.

After about 1.5 miles, Pinto Arch comes into view. Its elegant sandstone curve is perched on the edge of a cliff, framing slices of blue sky and canyon country beyond. Unlike the famous arches in the national parks, there’s a good chance you’ll have Pinto Arch to yourself. Step beneath its span, listen to the quiet, and enjoy one of Moab’s best-kept secrets.

⚠️ Trail Safety Tips 

  • Bring at least 2 liters of water per person. No shade, no water on trail.

  • Start early. Midday sun can be intense, even in spring and fall.

  • Watch your footing. Slickrock can be tricky, especially when descending.

  • Follow cairns. The trail is easy to lose if you aren’t paying attention.

  • Leash pets. This trail is dog friendly, but keep them safe on hot rock surfaces.

🗂 Quick Trail Stats 

  • Trail Type: Out-and-back

  • Distance: 3.4 miles round trip

  • Elevation Gain: ~500 feet

  • Difficulty: Moderate

  • Time Needed: 1.5–2 hours

  • Best Season: Spring & fall

  • Dog Friendly: Yes, on leash

  • Trailhead: Poison Spider Trailhead, Potash Road (UT-279)

Clean, minimalist illustrated trail map from Corona Arch Trailhead (opposite Gold Bar Campground) to the Pinto Arch spur, with cairn icons across slickrock, distance ticks, elevation mini-profile, cardinal orientation, and clear labels: Potash Road (UT-279), Rail line crossing, Corona Arch Trail (main), Pinto Arch Spur.

Suggested Half-Day Itinerary

If you’re driving Potash Road, Pinto Arch trail fits perfectly into a day of adventure:

  • Morning: Hike Pinto Arch (2 hours round trip)

  • Afternoon: Stop at the roadside petroglyph panels just east of the trailhead

  • Evening: Continue west to Corona Arch Trail for sunset

Nearby Attractions

  • Potash Road Petroglyphs – Ancient rock art visible right from the roadside.

  • Corona Arch – One of Moab’s most famous hikes, just 4 miles farther down Potash Road.

  • Jug Handle Arch – A photogenic roadside span worth a quick stop.

FAQs About Pinto Arch Trail

How long does the Pinto Arch hike take?
Most hikers complete it in 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on pace and time spent at the arch.

Is Pinto Arch dog friendly?
Yes, dogs are allowed but must remain on a leash. Bring extra water for them—slickrock gets hot quickly.

Is the trail easy to follow?
The first section is clear, but once on slickrock you must follow cairns. GPS or a downloaded map is helpful.

When is the best time to hike Pinto Arch?
Spring and fall offer the best conditions. In summer, hike very early to avoid dangerous heat.

Where is the trailhead located?
The trail begins at the Poison Spider Trailhead, about 6 miles along Potash Road (UT-279) from Moab.

Is Pinto Arch trail right for you?

If you’re searching for an arch hike that combines adventure, solitude, and classic Moab red rock scenery, Pinto Arch delivers. It’s not the most famous trail in town, and that’s exactly why people love it. Whether you’re pairing it with Corona Arch or heading out just for this quiet spot, Pinto Arch is a hike that makes you feel like you’ve discovered something special.