Double Arch Trail - 0.6mi Easy Walk

Q: Is it safe for kids and strollers?

Yes for kids. The trail is gravel, gradual slope, and short. Strollers can work on the hard-packed surface depending on wheel type. If kids want to scramble on rocks, supervise them closely—there are drop-offs and loose rock.

Q: Do I need special gear or training?

No special training. Wear sturdy shoes (hiking boots work best) if you're scrambling on rocks. Sunscreen and 1+ liter of water are mandatory—no shade for the walk out, no water sources on trail.

Q: Can I take a wheelchair or mobility device?

The hard-packed trail with gradual slope is considered barrier-free and may be accessible to wheelchairs with some assistance. Check with the visitor center for specific accessibility accommodations and current trail conditions.

Q: Why is this place so crowded?

This arch is visible from the parking loop, is the tallest in the park, and takes only 15-30 minutes to hike. It's a high-volume spot, especially March-October. Arrive before 8 AM or after 3 PM to avoid the crush.

Q: Can I climb on the arch or scramble on the rocks?

You can scramble on the rock beneath and around the arches for different photo angles. Remember: climbing up is easier than climbing down. Don't overextend yourself; retreat when tired, not after you're stuck.

Q: What's the temperature like, and do I need a coat?

Desert temperatures swing wildly. Summer (June-August): 95-110°F, brutal sun. Spring/Fall: 60-80°F, ideal. Winter: 30-50°F, occasional snow. Bring a layer for morning/sunset even in warm months.

Distance

0.6 mi

Elevation Gain

30 ft

Est. Time

15-30 minutes

Route Type

Out-and-back

Dogs Allowed

Best Season

Year-round. Best conditions November-February (mild, fewer crowds). March-October is busy but offers reliable weather. Winter: occasional light snow, but trail typically remains clear due to low elevation and arid climate.

Overview

About This Trail

This 0.6-mile easy gravel walk leads to the tallest arch in Arches National Park (112 ft/34 m)—two giant spans joined at one end. The route is flat and straightforward, taking 15-30 minutes from The Windows parking area. Most hikers rate this as the perfect warm-up hike: accessible enough for families and wheelchairs (with assistance), scenic enough to justify the detour, and quick enough to layer into a larger park tour.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Easy

Trail Highlights

The tallest arch in Arches National Park (112 ft/34 m) with the second-longest span (144 ft/44 m). Two giant arches joined at one end create a unique geological gateway. This is the crown jewel of The Windows Section—an area packed with arches and considered by many as the beating heart of the park.

Insider Tips

• The connector trail with stairs to the upper lot and The Windows trailhead makes it possible to visit multiple arches in one circuit. Park once, hike twice—covers the richest concentration of geologic features in the park. • This area—The Windows Section—is called "the beating heart of Arches" by park rangers. Garden of Eden, Elephant Butte, and Parade of Elephants are nearby; combine visits for maximum impact. • Scrambling below the arch offers photo angles the main trail doesn't provide—but don't overextend upward; retreat is harder than ascent. • Visit just before sunset for warmer, directional light on the arch—worth the crowd trade-off for photography.

Best Season to Hike

Hiking Tips

Bring at least 1 liter of water minimum—no sources on trail, full sun exposure, arid climate dehydrates fast.
Apply high-SPF sunscreen before starting; reapply if you're out longer than expected.
Wear sturdy footwear (hiking boots or trail shoes) if you plan to scramble on rocks—loose surfaces are treacherous on descent.
If scrambling underneath the arch, remember: climbing UP is easier than climbing DOWN. Don't overcommit your route.
Park strategically: Use the connector trail stairs to The Windows trailhead if visiting multiple arches in one trip—covers more ground with one parking fee.
Arrive early or visit off-season if crowds wreck your peace.

Family Info

Excellent for families. The short distance (0.6 miles), easy grade, and quick payoff make this ideal for young children. If children want to scramble on rocks beneath the arches, supervise closely—uneven surfaces, loose rock, and drop-offs require careful footing and hand-holding in steep sections.

What Hikers Say

Hikers consistently rank this as a quick essential—the tallest arch in the park in under 30 minutes. Families appreciate the accessibility and short commitment. Photographers note that the double spans create compelling compositions from multiple angles. Most say the connector trail to The Windows is worth the extra stairs to see multiple arches in one trip.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 0.6 miles

Elevation Gain: 30 ft

Duration: 15-30 minutes

Difficulty: Easy

Route Type: Out-and-back

Surface: Hard-packed gravel path with gradual slope

Getting There

Trailhead: The Windows parking loop, Arches National Park

Parking: Moderate capacity; shared with Windows trailhead area

Fills Up: Fills by mid-morning during peak season (March-October); typically full by 10 AM

Restrooms at trailhead

Requirements

Permit Required

No permits required. Standard Arches National Park entrance fee applies.

Fees: $30 per private vehicle (valid 7 days); $25 per motorcycle; $15 per individual on foot or bicycle. Youth 15 and under admitted free.

Shuttle Available

No shuttle required. A connector trail with stairs links the lower parking lot (Double Arch) to the upper lot at The Windows trailhead. Consider parking once and walking between both lots to view North Window, Turret Arch, and Double Arch without moving your vehicle.

Trail Rules

Dogs: No. Dogs are prohibited on this trail. Service animals are permitted in national parks.

Trail Markers: Well-maintained and easy to follow. The path is worn by frequent use and clearly visible from The Windows parking loop. No navigation challenges.

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: None on trail. This is a dry walk. Bring a minimum of 1 liter per person. No refill sources between trailhead and destination.

Shade: Minimal shade for most of the walk. Full sun on the approach. Shade available under the arch itself once you reach the destination.

Hazards:

Sun exposure is the primary hazard—this is desert open ground with minimal shade. Apply sunscreen and carry water. If you scramble on the rocks beneath and around the arches, climbing down is trickier than climbing up; don't venture beyond your ability to retreat safely. Wet rock becomes slippery—a hazard after rain or if morning dew hasn't evaporated. Loose surfaces near the arch base demand careful footing.

Emergency: 911 for life-threatening emergencies. Arches Visitor Center for ranger assistance and medical support.

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: High during peak season (March-October), especially mid-morning through afternoon. Moderate during off-season. Peak season feels like a conga line from 10 AM–4 PM.

Peak Times: March through October, 10 AM–4 PM (worst midday). Weekends year-round busier than weekdays.

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Hard-packed gravel trail with gradual slope. Considered barrier-free and may be accessible to wheelchairs with some assistance. Consultation with park staff recommended for specific mobility needs.

Family Notes:

Nearby Facilities

Vault/composting toilet at trailhead. Bicycle racks for secured parking. The Windows connector trail provides access to additional arch viewpoints (North Window, Turret Arch) without returning to your vehicle. Moab, 5 miles away, offers restaurants, lodging, and supplies.

What Hikers Say

Reviews

" Hikers consistently rank this as a quick essential—the tallest arch in the park in under 30 minutes. Families appreciate the accessibility and short commitment. Photographers note that the double spans create compelling compositions from multiple angles. Most say the connector trail to The Windows is worth the extra stairs to see multiple arches in one trip."

Reviews from Google

FAQs

Is this trail really that easy?

Yes. 0.6 miles, 30 feet of elevation gain, 15-30 minutes. This is a warm-up lap—the difficulty is managing crowds and heat, not fitness.

Is it safe for kids and strollers?

Do I need special gear or training?

Can I take a wheelchair or mobility device?

Why is this place so crowded?

Can I climb on the arch or scramble on the rocks?

What's the temperature like, and do I need a coat?

🏞️ National Park Service 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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

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