Lions Park and Bike Path Trailhead

Colorado River corridor in Entrada Sandstone; water erosion shapes the canyon.

Insider tip

Arrive early to secure parking

Insider tip

Bridge views best in morning light

Natural Attraction

Natural Attraction★ 4.8
Geological Formation4,100 ftRestrooms availableNo permit neededGolden-hour pick

Red rock walls rise along the Colorado River, and a modern bridge spans the water. The scene sits within Entrada Sandstone, deposited as dunes in the Jurassic and later sculpted by water and uplift. It is a clear example of river-and-wind erosion shaping Arches’ dramatic landscape.

Getting there & parking

How To Get There
From Moab, drive northeast on UT-128 for about 5 miles to Lions Park. Park in the paved lots, walk onto the river promenade, and cross the pedestrian bridge; follow the Moab Canyon Pathway east and west connections toward Arches.
Distance From Entrance
5 miles northeast of downtown Moab along UT-128
Road Type
Paved
Parking Availability
Multiple paved parking lots with ample space
Peak Fill Times
March–October

When to go

Best Time To Visit
Spring and fall offer comfortable temps. Early mornings and late afternoons provide cooler light for photography; avoid the heat of mid-summer.
Best Visit Times
Early morning or late afternoon in spring/fall
Sunrise Sunset Quality
Good to excellent for river reflections and alpenglow
Best Season
Spring and Fall
Busiest Season
March through October
Seasonal Access
Year-round; peak crowds March–October; summer evenings are still pleasant
Road Opening Dates
Year-round access; no major seasonal closures noted
Snow Lingering
Rare
Winter Access
Limited but possible on paved areas; some facilities may reduce service
Weather Patterns
Dry desert climate; hot summers; mild springs; occasional monsoon rains; flash floods possible in narrow channels
Wildflower Peak
Spring
Fall Colors Peak
Minimal fall color; reds and browns

What you will experience

Attraction Type
Geological Formation
Main Features
Colorado River, Entrada Sandstone bluffs, pedestrian bridge, Moab Canyon Pathway connections
What Youll See
Red sandstone walls rise beside the river, a modern bridge crosses the water, and interpretive signs guide your understanding of the landscape along a shaded, paved corridor.
Unique Characteristics
Gateway to Arches with direct riverfront access and a long, connected bike/path network along the Colorado River
Photo Opportunities
Bridge framing with river reflections; golden-hour light on red cliffs; long-exposure water shots
Photography Spots
Pedestrian bridge over the river; river reflections; light on red rock walls during golden hour
Best Viewpoints
Bridge viewing points over the Colorado River; river bend and red walls framed by the path
Common Wildlife
Deer, elk, mountain lions, bears
Best Wildlife Times
Dawn and dusk
Geological Formation Type
Entrada Sandstone
Scientific Interest
Visible sedimentary layering and cross-bedding in Entrada; river-erosion processes; Indigenous cultural significance nearby; context for arches formation
Stargazing Quality
Excellent

Facilities, fees & access

Entry Fees
Varies
Permits Required
No
Restrooms Available
Yes
Restroom Type
Accessible restrooms; maintenance varies
Picnic Areas
No
Water Available
No
Interpretive Signs
Yes
Accessibility
Paved paths; accessible restrooms; gentle grades
Accessibility Level
Wheelchair-accessible with paved paths
Nearby Services
Trailhead restrooms; parking; interpretive signs; town amenities in Moab; water not guaranteed
Nearby Facilities
Trailhead restrooms; parking; interpretive signs; town services in Moab
Family Friendly Notes
Flat, paved routes; shade limited; supervise children near the river; bring water

Safety

Safety Considerations
Sun exposure and dehydration are hazards. The Colorado River currents can be dangerous; stay on paved paths and supervise children. Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat.

Nearby

Nearby Attractions
Arches National Park arches and fins; Moab Canyon Pathway; Colorado River views; downtown Moab
Connecting Trails
Moab Canyon Pathway east toward Arches; riverfront loop connections; links to broader Moab network
Trailheads Here
Moab Canyon Pathway heads east along the Colorado River from Lions Park; western connectors lead toward Arches

Planning advice

Insider Tips
  • Arrive early to secure parking
  • Bridge views best in morning light
  • Stay on designated paths to protect riverbank
  • Hydration and sunscreen mandatory
  • Cycle etiquette: yield to pedestrians on shared paths
Tips Advice
  • Stay on paved paths; the riverbank soils are fragile.
  • Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat; desert sun is fierce.
  • Use the pedestrian bridge for framing river and red walls; early light is best.
  • Heed interpretive signs for geology context; share the space with cyclists and walkers.
  • Keep a safe distance from wildlife; deer and other animals may appear along the path.

More details

Park Area
Arches National Park
Recent Updates
Trailhead improvements and new signage; restrooms updated
Elevation Feet
4100
Visitor Center Present
No
Guided Tours Available
No
Fishing Nearby
No
Swimming Allowed
No
Boating Allowed
No
Climbing Areas
No
Review Summary
Visitors value the easy access to a broad river corridor and the chance to connect with Arches from a convenient gateway. The paved paths and interpretive signs help orientation, though heat and crowds can be factors in peak season. Restroom upkeep has been noted in some reviews.

Location

Lions Park Bike Path Trailhead bridge in Arches National Park, featuring twisted metal sculptures and desert canyon views.Lions Park and Bike Path Trailhead at Arches National Park along a calm river, framed by red rock cliffs.

Frequently asked questions

Do I really need to arrive before 7am to get parking?

Parking fills quickly during peak season; arriving early improves chances, and visiting during off-peak times is noticeably quieter.

Is it worth biking the Moab Canyon Pathway for a view of the river?

Yes. The route delivers continuous river scenery and easy access to Arches; plan segments from Lions Park or combine with town stops for a full day.

Will my 65-year-old mother be able to walk to viewpoints from Lions Park?

Yes. The routes are paved with gentle grades, and restrooms are accessible nearby.

Is there any drinking water on site?

Potable water spigots are not explicitly noted; bring your own water to stay hydrated in the desert.

Are there safety hazards near the river?

Sun exposure and dehydration are real risks; the river can have strong currents. Stay on the paved routes, supervise children, and keep a safe distance from the water.

Fiery Furnace

Fiery Furnace: red sandstone fins and slot canyons shaped by erosion and uplift.

Old City Park

Red arches formed by erosion in Entrada sandstone. High arch density, easy roadside viewpoints.

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Sources

Editorial review: YourNPGuide Editorial Team. Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research; no firsthand visit is implied unless explicitly documented. Learn how YourNPGuide works.

Last updated February 2026. Report an issue.