Skyline Arch Hike – Arches National Park Utah

Skyline Arch is a quick and easy hike that almost anyone can do that leads to an impressive arch – most of which was created in a rockfall – in Arches National Park. Here is my guide to everything you need to know about hiking Skyline Arch near Moab, Utah.

Skyline Arch Trailhead Location:

You’ll find the Skyline Arch trail right off of the main road through Arches National Park, just south of the to Devil’s Garden area. You can park along the side of the road.

At the trailhead, you’ll find a storyboard sign that gives you the history of the arch. Now, if you’re like me, you might be tempted to skip out on reading the sign (Seriously – who has time for a history lesson! This is vacation, not summer school!!) and just get started on the hike, but I do feel this one is important. It really gives you the perspective on the arch you’re about to see, and its history is very interesting. Basically, a large boulder fell in the 1940s and dramatically changed the size and shape of Skyline Arch as you see it today. You can still find the rock pile rubble near the arch.

Skyline Arch Hike

Distance: .2 miles
Type: Out and back
Terrain: Slickrock and sand, mostly flat

The hike to Skyline Arch is mostly flat but it does have a slight uphill section right at the beginning of the hike. Most people should be able to complete this easy hike, but it is not wheelchair accessible. The hike is across slickrock but it wasn’t slippery (it might be if you’re attempting this after a rainstorm), the trail is wide and there are no dropoffs or cliffs.

Pro Tip: You can kind of see the arch from the road, but you can’t get a good picture of it. But if you need an accessible way to see it, or just want to see it or photograph it from another perspective, you can get a great view of the arch from the Devil’s Campground Amphitheater.

The trail won’t take you long to complete and soon you’ll be standing near the arch. At the end of the trail, you will find the rubble from the boulder collapse in 1940.

Skyline Arch – Final Thoughts

This is a super short hike to an arch with an interesting history. If you’re short on time (and who isn’t?!), this is a fun little hike to get out and stretch your legs. But even if you’re short on time, dude — read the storyboard before going on your hike!

HAVE YOU VISITED SKYLINE ARCH? LET ME KNOW IN THE COMMENTS!