Illustrated view of Tower Arch in Arches National Park with sandstone towers and text overlay reading Tower Arch Trail.

Tower Arch Trail Arches National Park

Experience one of Arches National Park’s most underrated hikes. The Tower Arch Trail delivers sweeping desert views, fun terrain, and a jaw-dropping natural arch—all without the crowds you’ll find at Delicate Arch. Tucked in the remote Klondike Bluffs section, this trail rewards hikers who are willing to go just a little farther off the beaten path.

Infographic showing Tower Arch Trail quick facts: 2.6 miles, 300 ft gain, 1.5–2 hours, easy–moderate difficulty, no dogs, kid-friendly.

Quick Facts

  • Distance: 2.6 miles round trip

  • Elevation Gain: ~300 feet

  • Difficulty: Easy–Moderate

  • Time Required: 1.5–2 hours

  • Kid-Friendly: Yes

  • Dogs: Not allowed

  • Best Seasons: Spring, Fall, Winter

Hike the Tower Arch Trail for the Solitude

If you’ve already hiked the big names in Arches, Tower Arch offers something different: solitude. On most days you’ll share this hike with only a handful of others. The trail mixes sandy washes, slickrock ridges, and short scrambles, keeping it interesting the entire way. The finale is spectacular: Tower Arch, a 92-foot-long span guarded by towering sandstone spires.

Getting to the Trailhead

The Tower Arch Trail is in the Klondike Bluffs area of Arches National Park. To reach it:

  1. From the Arches Visitor Center, drive 17.5 miles on the main park road.

  2. Turn onto Salt Valley Road (dirt road). Continue 7.2 miles.

  3. Follow the sign to Tower Arch and drive 1.6 miles to the trailhead.

👉 Important: Salt Valley Road is usually fine for passenger cars in dry conditions, but it becomes impassable when wet. Always check conditions at the visitor center before heading out.

  • GPS Trailhead Coordinates: 38.7585° N, 109.6219° W

  • Parking: Small dirt lot, no restrooms or water.

What the Hike Is Like

The hike begins with a short climb up slickrock, giving you wide-open views almost immediately. From there, the trail descends into a sandy wash and winds toward the sandstone fins of Klondike Bluffs.

Expect a mix of:

  • Sandy sections – soft footing, especially after wind.

  • Slickrock steps – easy scrambles where you may use your hands.

  • Open desert views – La Sal Mountains often visible on clear days.

The payoff is the arch itself. Tower Arch looms unexpectedly around a bend, massive and commanding, with two spires—nicknamed the “Sentinels”—standing watch beside it. Most hikers take a break here for photos, shade, and snacks before returning the way they came.

Safety Callouts

⚠️ Heat Hazard – No shade. In summer, start at sunrise and carry at least 2 liters of water per person.

⚠️ Road Conditions – Salt Valley Road can flood or become rutted after rain. High-clearance vehicles are safest, but most cars make it when dry.

⚠️ Fragile Desert Soil – Stay on the marked path to avoid damaging cryptobiotic soil, the living crust that keeps this ecosystem intact.

Safety infographic for Tower Arch Trail with icons for heat, water, dirt road conditions, and protecting fragile desert soil.

Pro Hiking Tips

  • Best Light: Late afternoon gives Tower Arch its richest glow.

  • Family Bonus: Kids love playing in the sandy washes—just keep water and snacks handy.

  • Photography Tip: Step back to capture the arch with its sentinel spires in the frame.

  • Pair It Up: Combine with a visit to Marching Men Viewpoint for another hidden gem in Klondike Bluffs.

FAQs Tower Arch Trail

Is the Tower Arch Trail family-friendly?
Yes. Kids who enjoy a bit of adventure will love the sandy sections and easy scrambles.

Do I need a permit to hike Tower Arch?
No special permit is required—just the Arches entrance fee or an annual pass.

Can I bring my dog?
No. Dogs are not allowed on trails in Arches National Park.

What’s the best time of year to hike?
Spring and fall for comfortable weather. Winter is quieter but cold in the mornings. Summer is hot—plan very early hikes only.

How long does the hike take?
Most hikers complete it in 1.5–2 hours, including time at the arch.

What to Do After Tower Arch

Once you’ve explored Tower Arch, you can:

  • Stop at Sand Dune Arch on your way back toward Moab—a fun, shaded walk perfect for kids.

  • Visit Skyline Arch, a quick roadside photo stop.

  • Refuel in Moab at Milt’s Stop & Eat—a classic diner with legendary burgers and milkshakes.

Final Thoughts

The Tower Arch Trail is one of Arches National Park’s best-kept secrets. It’s short enough for families, engaging enough for seasoned hikers, and stunning enough to rival the park’s icons. If you want to step away from the crowds and see a wilder side of Arches, make the drive to Klondike Bluffs and hike Tower Arch—you won’t regret it.

👉 Pro Planning Tip: Download an offline map before heading out. Cell service is unreliable in this part of the park.