Trail

Corona Arch

TrailOPERATIONAL★ 4.9
Corona Arch frames a sunlit desert panorama in Canyonlands National Park, with rugged sandstone and a blue sky.

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.

Quick facts

Distance Miles
3
Route Type
Out-and-back
Difficulty Level
Moderate
Elevation Gain Feet
460

Trail profile

Distance Miles
3
Route Type
Out-and-back
Difficulty Level
Moderate
Elevation Gain Feet
460
Estimated Time
1.5 to 3 hours
Trail Surface
Slickrock with dirt and sand
Trail Features
  • Corona Arch
  • Bowtie Arch
  • Pinto Arch
  • safety cables
  • ladder
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

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location
UT-279 Potash Road, Moab, UT (approx 10 miles west of the UT-279/US-191 junction)
Parking Lot Size
Decent size dirt parking lot; can fill up
Parking Fill Time
Full by 7:15 AM during peak season; late afternoon possible
Shuttle Required
0
Shuttle Details
No shuttle service; none required

Permits & conditions

Permit Details
Not required for day use
Fees
Free
Trail Status
Open

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead
1
Water Sources
No natural water sources; carry at least 3 liters per person
Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible; rocky with scrambling and ladder sections

Safety & strategy

Hazards
  • Extreme heat in summer
  • Slippery conditions when wet
  • Exposure to heights
  • Drop-offs requiring cables/ladder
  • Crowding and parking pressure
Hazard Details
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
Cell Service
Limited/Unreliable
Crowd Level
Can be crowded
Peak Crowd Times
Late morning to early afternoon; arrive early or late to avoid congestion
Best Season
Spring and Fall
Best Time To Visit
Start before 7:15 AM to beat heat and crowds; Spring and Fall offer milder temperatures.
Tips Advice
  • 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.

More details

Park Area
Arches National Park, Moab, Utah
Trail Markers
Well-marked trail with signs and cairns; follow main route
Dogs Allowed
On leash
Biking Allowed
No bikes permitted on this trail
Shade Level
Full sun exposure with very little shade
Emergency Contacts
Moab emergency services; Grand County Sheriff's Office; NPS rangers; dial 911 in emergencies
Map Recommended
1
Mud Season
Not typically a concern in this arid climate
Bug Season
Mosquitoes can be present on certain sections
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.
Recent Updates
Parking can fill quickly; no shuttle; conditions stable for standard season hiking
Family Friendly 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
Review Summary
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

Location

Corona Arch stands in Canyonlands National Park as hikers approach the sandstone arch under a clear blue sky.Corona Arch trail winds through red rock canyons in Canyonlands National Park, Utah.

Frequently asked questions

Is a permit required for day use?

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

Is there shade along the trail?

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

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.

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.

Is a permit required for day use?

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

Is there shade along the trail?

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

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.

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Sources

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

Last updated January 2026. Report an issue.