Druid Arch to Chesler Park Loop

Route Description for Druid Arch to Chesler Park Loop

The Druid Arch to Chesler Park Loop is a big hike for experienced adventurers. This trail is long and has steep, rugged sections that require light scrambling, so strap on your sturdiest hiking boots and pack a ton of snacks. If you like, this trail can be broken up over a couple of days by camping at one of the many campsites on route. These campsites are available for use with a backcountry overnight permit from the Canyonlands Parks office. Permits can be obtained from the Visitors Center or online.

From the Elephant Hill Trailhead, follow the cairn-marked path south for 2.1 km to a divide. Take a right and follow the trail west for half a mile to an intersection, then take a left to head south down Elephant Canyon along the Druid Arch Trail. Continue down Elephant Canyon for 1.3 km to a divide- stay right to continue south for another 3.5 km. At the end of Elephant Canyon, make your way up the ladder and through the boulders to Druid Arch. After taking a rest at the arch, backtrack to the last divide, take a left, and head west along the Chesler Park Loop. Stay left at the first divide just before Chesler Park Campsite #2. Continue around the loop, staying right at all the subsequent divides until you meet back up with the Druid Arch Trail.

Once you are back in familiar territory, follow the cairns to return to the Elephant Hill Trailhead, where you began.