Druid Arch Loop

Route Description for Druid Arch Loop

The Druid Arch Loop is a beautiful, long hike in the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park. This route can either be done as an ambitious day hike or broken up over a couple of days by camping at one of the many campsites along the trail. Camping at these campsites requires a backcountry overnight permit that you can purchase either in person at the Parks office or online. If you plan on hiking this route in one day, be sure to start early and arrive prepared with sturdy shoes, salty snacks to replenish your electrolytes, and more water than you think you need. No matter how you do this trail, the otherworldly beauty of this hike will surely leave you with a renewed passion for the Utah desert.

From the trailhead, follow the path southwest. Stay right at the first fork and left at the next two forks. At the Elephant Canyon Campsite # 2, take the path on the right to follow Elephant Canyon down and back to Druid Arch. Once back at Campsite #2, take the left-hand trail to follow the loop back up to the trailhead. There are three divisions along this last section: keep right at the first and left at the following two.

Once back at the trailhead, you can either spend the night camping under the stars at the campground or head on home for some well-deserved rest.