Corona Arch Hike Profile & Guide | Canyonlands National Park

Q: Is there shade along the trail?

Very little shade; prepare for full sun and bring sun protection.

Q: Is it safe to go alone?

Moderate hike with exposed sections; not technical but carry water, tell someone your plan, and consider hiking with a partner.

Q: What is the best time to hike Corona Arch?

Spring or Fall mornings are ideal; in summer, start before 7:15 AM or plan for late afternoon.

Q: Is there shade along the trail?

Very little shade; prepare for full sun and bring sun protection.

Q: Is it safe to go alone?

Moderate hike with exposed sections; not technical but carry water, tell someone your plan, and consider hiking with a partner.

Distance

3 mi

Elevation Gain

460 ft

Est. Time

1.5 to 3 hours

Route Type

Out-and-back

Dogs Allowed

Best Season

Spring and Fall

Overview

About This Trail

Corona Arch is a 3-mile out-and-back in Arches National Park. The route stays exposed to sun with scrambling on slickrock using safety cables and a ladder. Hydration is critical as you push to the arch and back.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Moderate

Trail Highlights

Base of Corona Arch offers the main payoff; along the route you encounter Bowtie and Pinto arches; mild exposure sections with cables and a ladder

Insider Tips

• Start before 7:15 AM to beat heat and crowds. • Spring and Fall are ideal; if summer, hike early or late. • The ladder and cables require three points of contact; don’t rush.

Best Season to Hike

Spring and Fall

Hiking Tips

Carry at least 3 liters of water per person.
Apply sunscreen, wear a hat, and bring light clothing.
Use the safety cables and ladder with three points of contact.
Start early to beat heat and crowds.

Family Info

Family-friendly for a moderate hike; exposure and ladder require caution with young children; supervise closely

What Hikers Say

Hikers note the arch is impressive and the route is well maintained; heat and crowds are common challenges; not technically difficult but sun exposure and brief scrambling add effort

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 3 miles

Elevation Gain: 460 ft

Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours

Difficulty: Moderate

Route Type: Out-and-back

Surface: Slickrock with dirt and sand

Getting There

Trailhead: UT-279 Potash Road, Moab, UT (approx 10 miles west of the UT-279/US-191 junction)

Parking: Decent size dirt parking lot; can fill up

Fills Up: Full by 7:15 AM during peak season; late afternoon possible

Restrooms at trailhead

Requirements

Permit Required

Not required for day use

Fees: Free

Shuttle Available

No shuttle service; none required

Trail Rules

Dogs: On leash

Biking: No bikes permitted on this trail

Trail Markers: Well-marked trail with signs and cairns; follow main route

Map/GPS recommended

View on AllTrails

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: No natural water sources; carry at least 3 liters per person

Shade: Full sun exposure with very little shade

Cell Service: Limited/Unreliable

Hazards:

Heat can drain stamina; slickrock can be slick when wet or dusty; sections with height exposure use safety cables and a ladder for access; crowded parking can slow start

Emergency: Moab emergency services; Grand County Sheriff's Office; NPS rangers; dial 911 in emergencies

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Can be crowded

Peak Times: Late morning to early afternoon; arrive early or late to avoid congestion

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Not wheelchair accessible; rocky with scrambling and ladder sections

Family Notes:

Family-friendly for a moderate hike; exposure and ladder require caution with young children; supervise closely

Nearby Facilities

Vault toilet at trailhead; no water stations; dirt parking lot; no shops along the trail

What Hikers Say

Hikers note the arch is impressive and the route is well maintained; heat and crowds are common challenges; not technically difficult but sun exposure and brief scrambling add effort

FAQs

Is a permit required for day use?

No permit required for day use; the trail is freely accessible.

Is there shade along the trail?

Is it safe to go alone?

What is the best time to hike Corona Arch?

Is a permit required for day use?

Is there shade along the trail?

Is it safe to go alone?

📖 National Park Service — Arches National Park fees, hours & conditions (checked 2026-07-05) 📖 discovermoab.com 📖 girlonahike.com 📖 allmoab.com 📖 blm.gov 📖 visitutah.com 📖 utah.com 📖 dirtinmyshoes.com 📖 wereintherockies.com 📖 hikingwalking.com 📖 nextdestinationunknown.com 📖 adventuresofaplusk.com 📖 amandaoutside.com 📖 youtube.com 📖 reddit.com ⭐ Google Reviews 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works →

Visit Website