Double Arch Trail - 0.6mi Easy Walk

Two sandstone arches connected on the left against a backdrop of blue sky.

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.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 0.6
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Easy
Elevation Gain Feet: 30

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 0.6
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Easy
Elevation Gain Feet: 30
Estimated Time: 15-30 minutes
Trail Surface: Hard-packed gravel path with gradual slope
Trail Features: Tallest arch in Arches National Park (112 ft/34 m)
Double arch spans joined at one end
Natural rock formations for scrambling
Direct views from parking loop
Part of The Windows Section concentration
Shade beneath the arch at destination
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.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: The Windows parking loop, Arches National Park
Parking Lot Size: Moderate capacity; shared with Windows trailhead area
Parking Fill Time: Fills by mid-morning during peak season (March-October); typically full by 10 AM
Shuttle Required: 0
Shuttle Details: 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.

Permits & conditions

Permit Details: 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.
Trail Status: Open
Seasonal Closures: None. Arches is open 24 hours year-round, year-round, though snow and ice occasionally complicate access during winter.

Facilities & rules

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

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Sun exposure
Dehydration risk
Slippery wet rock
Drop-offs and steep sections if scrambling
Loose rock and uneven footing near arch base
Hazard Details: 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.
Crowd Level: 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 Crowd Times: March through October, 10 AM–4 PM (worst midday). Weekends year-round busier than weekdays.
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.
Best Time To Visit: Arrive before 8 AM during peak season (March-October) to beat crowds and heat. Afternoon visits after 3 PM are quieter. Off-season (November-February) offers lower visitor counts and milder temperatures, though some trails see occasional ice. Start with a full water bottle regardless of season.
Tips Advice: 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.

More details

Park Area: The Windows Section
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.
Dogs Allowed: No. Dogs are prohibited on this trail. Service animals are permitted in national parks.
Shade Level: Minimal shade for most of the walk. Full sun on the approach. Shade available under the arch itself once you reach the destination.
Emergency Contacts: 911 for life-threatening emergencies. Arches Visitor Center for ranger assistance and medical support.
Map Recommended: 0
Snow Dates: Occasional light snow December-February. Trail typically remains clear year-round due to lower elevation (~5,000 ft) and arid climate. After heavy snow, ice may form on gravel—bring traction if conditions are reported.
Mud Season: Rarely muddy. Arid climate and hard-packed surface mean mud is uncommon even after rain.
Fall Colors Peak: Not applicable. Limited vegetation in this arid environment. Landscape is dominated by red rock and sparse desert shrubs.
Bug Season: Minimal insect activity typical. Desert location limits mosquitoes and biting flies. May can see increased activity if water sources are nearby, but this trail is dry.
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.
Family Friendly Notes: 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.
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.
Review Summary: 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.

Location

Frequently asked questions

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?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.