The Double Arch Trail is a popular hiking trail located in Arches National Park. It’s the largest and second-longest arch in the park and a striking sight that can be seen from The Windows parking loop.
Some regard the Windows Section, which contains the Double Arch, as the vital center of Arches National Park. You might have heard about the several attractions you can visit in this area, but have you seen them in person? You might want to see for yourself because the Double Arch Trail is just an easy hike.
Here’s everything you need to know about this hike.
Table of Contents
Map Of Double Arch Trail
About Double Arch Trail
- Address: Arches National Park
- Trailhead GPS: 38.688300, -109.538367
- Website: nps.gov/places/double-arch.htm
- Hours: Open year-round, 24 hours a day
- Arches National Park Admission: Per Person: $15 | Motorcycle: $25 | Private Vehicle $30
- Amenities: Bicycle rack, vehicle parking (auto, bus, and RV), vault toilet, and wheelchair-accessible
- Level: Easy
- Length: 0.6 miles
- Estimated Time: 16 minutes
The Windows Section of Arches National Park, which has the highest concentration of naturally occurring arches worldwide, is home to Double Arch, an amazing formation of arches. Double Arch gets its name because it has two arches with the same outer leg foundation made of the same stone. Rather than coming from side-to-side water erosion, Double Arch was created by water eroding downward from atop the sandstone.
Just over two square miles from the Double Arch are home to breathtaking vistas, including the North Window, Turret Arch, and Double Arch, to name a few. The Parade of Elephants, Elephant Butte, and Garden of Eden are some of the other named attractions in this area.
Guided Tour Of Double Arch Trail
The short, largely level climb to Double Arch passes through a smattering of oaks and junipers. Utah’s state flower, the sego lily, is a huge, single, cream-colored flower that can be seen in the spring. The entire trail is clearly marked and simple to navigate. The Parade of Elephants, a group of buttes, is visible along the route to your left.
From the parking lot, Double Arch appears quite ordinary, but up close, its enormity becomes apparent. When you arrive, the enormous size of the arch is evident, especially if you can ascend directly beneath the arches.
You can extend your journey by ascending beneath Double Arch, but take care not to damage any surrounding vegetation or natural features.
This trail climbs gradually to the base of two enormous arch spans that meet at one end. If you decide to scramble up the rock beneath the arches, you should carefully choose their path because going up is frequently easier than going down.
Parade of Elephants – The remains of the fin, to which Double Arch once belonged, may be found south of the arch. The rock formation resembles a herd of elephants moving in a single file while grasping each other’s tails. The structure is made up of a few tiny arches that appear to have been sculpted to resemble pachyderms inside the ranks of the elephants.
Elephant Butte – Elephant Butte, which rises more than 600 feet above the road and is 5653 feet above sea level, is the highest point in Arches National Park. Regarding technical routes, Elephant Butte is a popular climbing location and is regarded as an easy climb.
If you don’t want to trek the whole trail, there is also a fantastic view from the beginning. Dogs and bicycles are not permitted on this trail. Wheelchair accessibility may be possible with some help on this well-maintained, gently sloping track, which is regarded as barrier-free.
What To Expect on Your Hike
To get there, you have to drive from the Visitor Center along Main Park Road for slightly over nine miles and make your first right after Balanced Rock. The parking lot gets full quickly. A stairway connects the Windows Trailhead and an upper parking lot. The closest restrooms are down the road at the Winding Loop trailhead.
This section of the park has a lot to see. Elephant Butte, Turret Arch, Cove Arch, Ribbon Arch, the Cove of Caves, and the Parade of Elephants are some of the nearby sites.
If you want to see more arches, consider parking in one area and making the short walk between the two lots.
How To Find The Double Arch Trailhead
Proceed onto the main road until it forks 9.2 miles northward into the park. Continue three miles after making a right turn to reach the Windows Parking lot. After arriving, circle around the parking lot for approximately a quarter of a mile. Park to the right (north) in the Double Arch Parking Area.
What Time is The Busiest?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to explore Arches National Park because of the lower temperatures. This trail has a lot of traffic, especially in the morning and evening. Since thousands of people hike this trail every day, we advise starting your hike early.
Visiting the park as soon as it opens is advised because many tour groups arrive early. Early morning, ideally around sunrise, is the best time to have some alone time at Double Arch.
There will probably be other people in the parking area, but the Windows Arch Trail and Turret Arch tend to draw the majority of people.
Flying A Drone (Is It Allowed?)
Launching, landing, or operating unmanned aircraft (such as drones, quadcopters, or model airplanes) is prohibited in Double Arch Trail at Arches National Park. The National Park Service (NPS) imposes restrictions on drone usage to protect wildlife, preserve natural quiet, and ensure visitor safety.
Other Hikes Close To Double Arch Trail
The Double Arch is located at the Windows Section of Arches National Park, and a lot of attractions can be seen there. However, you can also continue what could be your best hike in Moab or explore nearby arches and trails if you’d like.
Delicate Arch Trail
- Level: Moderate
- Length: 3.2 miles
- Estimated Time: 1 hour and 35 minutes
Many visitors to Arches National Park travel from all over the world, and visiting Delicate Arch is a top priority. This free-standing arch is one of the most famous natural formations in the entire globe and a widely acknowledged symbol of the state of Utah.
The word “Delicate” originally appeared in a January 1934 report about the Arches National Monument Scientific Expedition, referring to “the most delicately chiseled arch in the entire area.”
Windows Loop Trail
- Level: Easy
- Length: 0.7 miles
- Estimated Time: 18 minutes
It is essential to hike this loop when visiting Arches National Park. Three incredibly beautiful arches are accessible for you to stop and take in along the way!
Enjoy wide views of the colorful desert to the north and northeast while standing directly beneath the massive North Window Arch. The South Window Arch appears to be standing on a platform above the arid landscape. Walk the entire loop, including a stop at the interesting formation along the Turret Arch Trail, and then head back to the parking lot.
Fiery Furnace and Surprise Arch
- Level: Moderate
- Length: 2.1 miles
- Estimated Time: 1 hour
The Fiery Furnace is a fantastic and distinctive location in Arches National Park. Hikers with an adventurous spirit—and perhaps a GPS—will need to identify and follow the track through this sandstone maze, which can be difficult to find.
You can also hike this trail as part of a tour organized by a ranger. Before visiting this area on your own, you are advised to sign up for one of these tours. If you are itching to go there alone, you will need to seek a permit from the Parks Office.
Despite its name, the Fiery Furnace is shaded, making it a nice climb on a hot day.
What to Bring On Your Hike
When planning a hike specifically for the Double Arch Trail in Arches National Park, it’s essential to pack accordingly to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here’s a list of items you should consider bringing:
Water: Arches National Park is located in a desert environment, so it’s crucial to stay hydrated, especially during the warmer months. Bring an adequate amount of water for your hike, considering the length and intensity of your journey. Even though the trail is relatively short, having more water than you think you’ll need is always better.
Sun Protection: The desert sun can be intense, even during cooler seasons. Wear sunscreen with a high SPF rating to protect your skin from sunburns. Additionally, consider wearing a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to shield your face and eyes from the sun’s glare.
Sturdy Footwear: The trail to Double Arch involves walking on uneven terrain, including sandy patches and slickrock surfaces. Wearing sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes or boots with good traction will help prevent slips and provide support for your feet.
Weather-Appropriate Clothing: In warmer weather, lightweight, breathable clothing is essential to stay cool and comfortable. During cooler months or if hiking early in the morning or late in the afternoon, layering is key to staying warm.
Camera or Smartphone: The Double Arch Trail offers incredible photo opportunities, so don’t forget to bring a camera or smartphone to capture the stunning scenery.
Map or Guidebook: While the Double Arch Trail is well-marked, carrying a map or guidebook of the area is always a good idea, especially if you plan to explore other trails in Arches National Park. This will help you navigate the park and ensure you stay on the right path during your hike.
What People Are Saying About Double Arch Trail
We went here in the evening and saw the crowd so we decided to come back in the morning and it was only me, my friend and one other hiker there! Climb up to the arch and sit there to take in the formation and view! It’s breathtaking!
Cheyenne Rae – Tripadvisor
Loved this trail! Super easy to get to, I wouldn’t even call it hiking to be honest. Once at the arch there is plenty of scrambling and bouldering to do!
Jada Pemble – AllTrails
We suggest pairing this hike with The Windows. Both trails are very short and easy. All visitors to the park should spend some time in the Windows area when visiting Arches National Park.
Natalie Ockey – Utah’s Adventure Family
Tour Double Arch Trail and The Surrounding Area
The Double Arch Trail is particularly stunning at sunrise and sunset when the warm light bathes the sandstone formations in a golden glow, creating a truly magical atmosphere. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Arches National Park and offers a glimpse into the incredible forces of nature that have shaped the landscape over millions of years.
The trail’s highlight is undoubtedly the Double Arch, which is a pair of towering arches that have formed side by side. Make sure to take photos of the different angles. You might need a whole hour doing this!
Double Arch Trail FAQs
How long is the Double Arch hike in Arches National Park?
The Double Arch hike in Arches National Park is relatively short, spanning approximately 0.5 miles round trip. It’s considered an easy trail suitable for hikers of all skill levels, including families with children and individuals with limited mobility.
How was the Double Arch formed?
Like many of the arches in Arches National Park, the Double Arch was formed through the natural processes of erosion and weathering over millions of years. The arches were believed to have been created as softer rock layers eroded away, leaving behind the harder sandstone that forms them. Over time, wind, water, and ice sculpted the sandstone, eventually creating the unique double arch formation that we see today.
How do I get to Double Arch Moab?
To get to Double Arch in Moab, you’ll need to visit Arches National Park, which is located just a few miles north of Moab, Utah. From the park’s entrance station, drive along the main park road until you reach the Windows Section. The Double Arch Trailhead is located near the Windows Section, and there are signs directing you to the trailhead from the main road. Once at the trailhead, reaching Double Arch is a short walk.
How old is the Double Arch in Arches National Park?
It’s challenging to determine the exact age of the Double Arch in Arches National Park, as the formation of geological features like arches occurs over millions of years. However, it’s estimated that the Double Arch, like many of the arches in the park, formed over tens of millions of years through the slow process of erosion and weathering by natural forces such as wind, water, and ice.