Delicate Arch Viewpoints

Arches National Park

Arches National Park, Delicate Arch, Geological Wonders

Difficulty: Accessible/Easy

Length: Lower Viewpoint 0.1 mile (loop)
                Upper Viewpoint 1 mile (loop)
Elevation Gain: 141ft (Upper Viewpoint)
Approximate Hiking Time: 1/4 – 1/2 hr
Features: Geological Wonders
Nearest Town: Moab, Ut

Delicate Arch is synonymous with Utah.  I mean it does adorn the license plates after all! 

While you won’t be able to reach out and touch Delicate Arch from here, you still get great views at a distance.  Plus it’s a great stop if you’re tight on time.

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Hike Highlights

1. Delicate Arch

Even from a distance Delicate Arch is impressive.  And as the one of Utah’s most iconic sites it’s pretty cool to photograph.

2. Landscape, Flora, and Fauna

Both viewpoints offer great views of Delicate Arch as it sits in the landscape, a totaly different perspective than you get from the Delicate Arch trail.  A hike to the upper viewpoint offers close-ups of native flowers and likely a lizard or two.

3. Accessibility

The lower viewpoint is the only place in the park to see Delicate Arch that is wheelchair and stroller friendly.  It’s also a great choice for those who aren’t into hiking.

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 Trailhead Directions

Follow the Main Park Road from the Visitor Center turning right onto Delicate Arch Road for about 14.2 miles.

The parking area for the Delicate Arch Viewpoints trailhead is located at the end of the road.

Hike Details

Lower Viewpoint

The lower viewpoint can be reached by a short accessible trail that is flat, hard packed and provides a view of the arch from about 1 mile away.  While the arch does appear small from here; it’s still a great stop to see an iconic site and learn more facts about the arch.

Delicate Arch Lower Viewpoint
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Upper Viewpoint

From the Lower Viewpoint, continue on for about 0.5 miles to the upper viewpoint along a steep trail.  Delicate Arch comes into view across the canyon at the top of the trail.  While hiking to the top, it’s worth taking breaks to catch your breath and enjoy the local flora and fauna.

Delicate Arch Upper Viewpoint
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Why is this hike accessible?

A hard packed, flat trail leads from the parking area to the lower viewpoint and is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.   The upper viewpoint in an easy hike although it is pretty steep.  Unfortunately, the trail to the upper viewpoint is not accessible.

More Hikes to Choose From

Check out this and other hikes in Arches National Park and Moab, Ut.

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