The Windows Loop Trail and Turret Arch Trail in Arches National Park are family-friendly hikes that reward you with unique and beautiful sandstone arches. Because of the way they resemble a face with spectacles, the Windows Arches are sometimes referred to as the Spectacles.

This is one of the best things to do in Moab with young children because the trail is well-marked and well-used, making it an excellent choice for a leisurely morning stroll or a trip. Before taking on this hike, here’s what you need to know about Windows Loop And Turret Arch Trail.

Map Of Windows Loop Trail

About Windows Loop And Turret Arch Trail

• Address: Arches National Park
• Trailhead GPS: 38.687164, -109.536719
• Website: nps.gov/places/the-windows-section-trailhead.htm
• Hours: Open year-round, 24 hours a day
• Arches National Park Admission: Per Person: $15 | Motorcycle: $25 | Private Vehicle $30
• Amenities: Vehicle parking, bus/RV parking, and vault toilets
• Level: Easy
• Length: 1.2 miles
• Estimated Time: 30 minutes

The Windows Section of Arches National Park has a stunning freestanding arch known as the Turret Arch. The vistas of the surroundings are breathtaking. 

The distance between the Windows Section and the park entrance is 12 miles. From the parking lot, one can observe the massive North Window. Turret Arch, North Window, South Window, and Double Arch are all accessible by trails. There’s little space for large vehicles at the bottom lot close to Double Arch.

Bring your children with you because they’ll definitely enjoy some excellent climbing. By passing through the arch, you can enjoy a fantastic view from the Turret to the North Window and beyond. Excellent views of the Elephant Parade and the Cove of Caves are also seen here. 

Guided Tour Of Windows Loop and Turret Arch Trail 

The trail runs to the North Window and then to the South Window, even though it appears that the route should be reversed. Turret Arch can be seen by taking a brief detour to the right (south) on the route to the North Window. 

You can see why the Windows are also referred to as the Spectacles. You can view the “nose” on which the spectacles sit if you trek the undeveloped loop that circles the back of the arches.

Going off route and ascending directly beneath the North Window and Turret Arch is manageable. 

Never try to climb the South Window. Many have become stuck there or fallen while attempting. Exercise caution not to trip over plants or harm any natural elements. Hold on to your hat as well. Due to the strong winds in the vicinity, it usually blows off as soon as you get to either arch.

Once you’ve had enough admiring the Windows and Turret Arch, follow the clearly marked circular trail from the South Window viewpoint. Circling the windows provides an additional wonderful perspective of the North Window and also views the area’s native vegetation. Approximately fifty yards north of the main trailhead, the primitive loop route meets the parking lot. 

There are fewer trail markers in the basic area, so be sure to keep your distance from them.

Option: Retrace your steps back to the parking area and turn around if you want a shorter, 0.7-mile hike.

What To Expect on Your Hike

This trail’s first 300 feet (91 meters) are thought to be wheelchair-accessible and barrier-free. It takes some walking up a slope and some rock steps to get to the foot of the arches. There are steps up and down the very uneven rustic segment of the trail. 

Kids of all ages can have a lot of fun playing and exploring on this hike. Photographers who want to capture some breathtaking images of these sandstone formations are also big fans of this trip. 

Note: This trail is a popular site for desert photography. If you want to take some pictures yourself, head there early in the morning to get the greatest light.

How To Find The Windows Loop Trailhead

After taking Highway 191 to the Arches Visitor Center, head northeast on Main Park Road for about 14.8 kilometers. When you see Windows Road, which should be on your right, turn right. 

The Windows Trailhead is located at the extreme end of Windows Road, which is roughly 4.0 miles away. This is where the Windows Loop Trail starts.

A connecting route descends to the Double Arch trailhead and the lower parking lot across. If you want to see more arches, think about parking in one area and making the short walk between the two lots.

What Time is The Busiest?

The busiest times to hike the Windows Loop and Turret Arch trails in Arches National Park are typically during the peak tourist seasons, which generally coincide with the spring and fall months. This is one of the few hikes in Moab that is excellent throughout the year. 

If there aren’t any road restrictions during the winter, you can still take this on. Perhaps there will even be some excellent snow on the arches. Unlike many of the other hikes, this one is farther off the main road. 

Thankfully, this journey is easier and shorter than other hikes to Arches, even though it is extremely hot during the midday hours of July. But it’s worth packing water and getting ready for the heat and sun.

If you can, try doing this quick morning or late afternoon hike when there aren’t as many people around and parking is more possible.

Flying A Drone (Is It Allowed?)

Launching, landing, or operating unmanned aircraft (such as drones, quadcopters, or model airplanes) is prohibited in Windows Loop and Turret 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 Windows Loop Trail 

Aside from the magnificent rock formations you can see while hiking Windows Loop and Turret Arch Trail, there are also very popular nearby trails you can take on.

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.”

Double Arch Trail

• Level: Easy
• Length: 0.6 miles
• Estimated Time: 16 minutes

Double Arch is one of Arches National Park’s most distinctive and fascinating formations. It consists of two distinct arches with a hollowed-out center that are extremely near to one another. As a pothole arch, which was created by water erosion from above rather than wind and water erosion from the sides, this formation differs from the majority of the other arches in the park.

Adventure seekers and film enthusiasts will remember this arch formation from the opening sequence of Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.

Balanced Rock Trail

• Level: Easy
• Length: 0.3 miles
• Estimated Time: 9 minutes

At 128 feet (39 meters) tall, Balanced Rock is one of the park’s most recognizable features. This formation isn’t balanced at all, despite the fact that it can seem like an incredible balancing feat. The top boulder of the Entrada Sandstone is fixed to the crumbling pedestal of the mudstone of Dewey Bridge. These two strata of exposed rock are perfect for creating balanced rocks and arches.

Balanced Rock is a terrific place to end a fun-filled day in the park since it gets saturated in a vivid red-orange color at sunset. It’s also a great location for night photography and stargazing. It’s not too close to Moab, Utah’s city lights, yet far enough away to feature quirky rocky spires in the foreground.

To the west, along a gravel road across from Balanced Rock, is a picnic area. This location has numerous picnic tables, a vault toilet, a covered canopy, and breathtaking views of Salt Valley. 

Climbing on Balanced Rock is prohibited.

What to Bring On Your Hike

Before starting a hike in Arches National Park’s Windows Loop and Turret Arch Trail, be ready for the desert climate and unpredictable weather. Here’s a list of essential items to bring along:

Water: Bring ample water to stay hydrated, especially if you’re hiking during warmer months. For shorter hikes, it is recommended that you carry at least one liter of water per person and more for longer excursions.

Sun protection: As you know, you’ll be hiking in the desert, so protect yourself from the intense desert sun by wearing sunscreen with a high SPF rating, sunglasses to shield your eyes, and/or a wide-brimmed hat to provide shade for your face and neck.

Sturdy footwear: Choose comfortable, closed-toe shoes with good traction to navigate the sandy and rocky terrain of the trails. Hiking boots or trail shoes are ideal for providing support and stability.

Snacks: Pack lightweight, energy-boosting snacks such as trail mix, granola bars, or fresh fruit to keep you fueled during your hike.

Weather-appropriate clothing: Dress in layers to accommodate for temperature fluctuations throughout the day. Lightweight, breathable clothing is best for hiking in the desert, and consider bringing a lightweight jacket or rain shell in case of unexpected weather changes.

Trail map or guidebook: Familiarize yourself with the trail route beforehand, and consider bringing a map or guidebook to help you navigate the trails and identify points of interest along the way. 

Bookmark this article or screenshot some parts of it so you can go back to it and have a guide.

Camera or smartphone: The Windows Section is an excellent spot for photo opportunities. To preserve memories of your hike and have something to show your friends and family back home, capture the stunning scenery and unique rock formations with a camera or smartphone.

First aid kit: You never know when will there be an emergency. Carry a basic first aid kit containing essentials such as adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, blister treatment, and any personal medications you may need.

Backpack: Make sure to use a lightweight backpack to carry your essentials comfortably and keep your hands free during the hike.

By bringing these essential items and being prepared for the desert environment, you can enjoy a safe and enjoyable hike along the Windows Loop and Turret Arch Trail in Arches National Park.

What People Are Saying About Windows Loop Trail

As we have been saying, the Windows Section is very popular for hikers and even for first-timers at Arches National Park. Here’s what others are saying about this trail:

Nifty short trail, more people than I’d expect in February for this hike, but it wasn’t overwhelming. I could not imagine how packed it would be in the summer.

Alexa Plisiewicz – AllTrails

Despite it being very busy, however, we enjoyed this little walk a lot and paused for breaks more frequently than we usually do, marvelling at the remarkable feats of nature.

Anninka Kraus – tobinka

One of my favorite hikes and a super easy way to see three different really cool arches. The Windows arch is one of the best short hikes in Arches National Park, and its popularity certainly shows.

Anwar – Beyond my Door

Discover What Windows Loop and Turret Arch Trail Can Offer

Some people say that the Windows Section is the lifeblood of Arches National Park. This is one of the park’s most picturesque areas and has a high concentration of arches.

Just over two square miles are home to breathtaking vistas, including the North Window, Turret Arch, and Double Arch. The Parade of Elephants, Elephant Butte, and Garden of Eden are some of the other named attractions in this area.

One of the highlights of the Windows Loop Trail is the chance to witness the arches at different times of the day, each offering a unique perspective and lighting conditions. Choose your preferred time to hike this trail, or go for sunrise and sunset if you have the time!

Windows Loop Trail FAQs