Tower Arch Trail

Q: What if I'm not super fit?

Skip it. Train on stairs and hills first. This punishes unfit legs mercilessly.

Q: Do I need trekking poles?

Yes. Sand dunes and the descent are brutal without them. They save your joints and energy.

Q: What if the unpaved road washes out?

Check weather before driving the 8-mile approach. If it rained, wait. If in doubt, turn back. Don't risk being stranded.

Q: How much water do I really need?

Minimum 2 quarts per person; 3 liters is better. Zero water sources on trail. Dehydration risk is genuine in full sun.

Q: Can I hike this solo?

Yes. But tell someone your route and expected return time. No cell service, so a twisted ankle means self-rescue until someone checks on you.

Distance

2.6 mi

Elevation Gain

290 ft

Est. Time

2-3 hours

Route Type

Out-and-back

Dogs Allowed

Best Season

April-May (spring) and September-October (fall); mild temperatures, lower visitation

Overview

About This Trail

This remote strenuous trail climbs a steep rock wall, crosses a valley, then meanders through sandstone fins and sand dunes on Arches' quieter side. You'll face full sun exposure, soft sand, and zero shade across 2.6 miles. The payoff: solitude and dramatic geology few visitors earn. Attempt only if fit and carrying 2+ quarts of water per person.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Strenuous

Trail Highlights

Quiet solitude on Arches' less-visited side; dramatic sandstone fin maze; Tower Arch natural gateway; complete escape from crowded main park trails

Insider Tips

• The mile-1.8 false summit tricks hikers into thinking they've reached Tower Arch—the real payoff is 0.5 miles further • Start at dawn to avoid afternoon heat radiating off rock; sunset hikes here are punishing • The unpaved approach road is the real barrier; most Arches visitors never drive it, so you'll have solitude • Descending sand dunes is harder than ascending—save strength and caution for the return • The Tower Arch itself frames the horizon; shoot from the southeast approach path for best light at midday

Best Season to Hike

April-May (spring) and September-October (fall); mild temperatures, lower visitation

Hiking Tips

Bring 2-3 liters of water minimum—zero water sources and full sun exposure
Wear hiking boots with good ankle support; avoid slick soles on steep rock scrambles
Trekking poles are mandatory on sand dunes—they save your legs on the return climb
Start before sunrise if possible; heat hits hard by noon
Check unpaved access road conditions after rain; it washes out quickly
Make noise as you hike; coyotes are present but rarely aggressive
Tell someone your route and expected return time; no cellular service for emergencies

Family Info

Not recommended for young children; 2-3 hour duration, no water/food services, intense sun exposure, physically demanding scrambling. Teenagers with hiking experience only; younger kids will struggle on sand dunes.

What Hikers Say

Hikers who finish this trail earned it. The consensus: strenuous climbing, soft sand drains energy, heat exposure is real and relentless. The reward is complete solitude and unique geology. Only for experienced hikers who respect the physical demands.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 2.6 miles

Elevation Gain: 290 ft

Duration: 2-3 hours

Difficulty: Strenuous

Route Type: Out-and-back

Surface: Steep rock scramble, sandstone fins, deep sand

Getting There

Trailhead: End of unpaved park road, 8 miles from park entrance via Scorup Road

Fills Up: Rarely fills; remote unpaved approach deters casual visitors

Restrooms at trailhead

Requirements

Permit Required

No permits required

Fees: $30 entrance fee (Private Vehicle); $25 motorcycle; $15 per person

Trail Rules

Dogs: No; service animals permitted

Trail Markers: Trail is marked but remote; bring map or GPS for route confirmation

Map/GPS recommended

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: None; dry trail—carry all water required

Shade: None; full sun exposure on entire route

Cell Service: None; no cellular coverage on trail or at trailhead

Hazards:

No shade or water sources; climbing sand dunes is extremely difficult; steep rock scramble with potential falls; full sun exposure for 2-3 hours; remote location with no cellular service limits rescue options; unpaved 8-mile access road washes out after rain, stranding vehicles

Emergency: Arches National Park ranger station at visitor center (approximately 25 miles away); tell someone your itinerary before departing, as solo hikers rely on last-known plans

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Light to solitary; quiet side of park deters casual hikers

Peak Times: March-October park-wide, but this trail sees minimal impact even during peak season due to unpaved 8-mile access road

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Not wheelchair accessible; steep climbing and sandy sections prevent access

Family Notes:

Nearby Facilities

Vault toilet at trailhead; no water or food. Nearest full services at Arches Visitor Center (approximately 15 miles by unpaved road)

What Hikers Say

FAQs

Is this trail really strenuous?

Absolutely. NPS rates it strenuous; the steep rock wall and sand dunes confirm it. Not a casual walk.

What if I'm not super fit?

Do I need trekking poles?

What if the unpaved road washes out?

How much water do I really need?

Can I hike this solo?

🏞️ National Park Service 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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

Visit Website