

hikes in Moab and Arches National Park
The area around the small town of Moab in Utah really packs a punch when it comes to epic hiking! This otherworldly landscape is like no other, with red sandstone that glows warmly under the hot sun, strange rock formations that tower over the trails, and plunging gorges, created by the incessant flow of the Colorado River. Hiking in Moab and Arches National Park is an experience you’ll never forget.
Moab is bordered by two of Utah’s most incredible national parks: Arches and Canyonlands, both of which boast some of the finest and most dramatic scenery in the United States. The vibrant color of the red sandstone of this region contrasts starkly with the blue sky and green desert vegetation, creating a visual spectacle that will take your breath away. With rocks carved by the elements into dazzling arches and precariously balanced pinnacles, hiking here is a rare delight.
As the name suggests, Arches National Park is known for its fabulous stone arches. The entire park is situated over a salt bed lying in the earth’s rock, created 300 million years ago when the region was part of an inland sea. As this layer was compressed by debris collected over millions of years, the salt bed became fluid, pushing upwards to create huge domes and ridges. With the help of erosion, these domes were eventually shaped into the colossal arches that we see today across the park. This natural phenomenon is truly staggering, and hiking in this landscape is a unique experience that you’ll treasure forever.
Moab is one of Utah’s best-kept secrets, but increasingly, more and more visitors are coming to appreciate the beauty of this wild place, and to take advantage of the opportunity to enjoy some epic outdoor adventures! Get ahead of the trend and start planning your trip today, with our guide to hiking in Moab and Arches National Park.
Types Of Hiking In Moab and Arches National Park
Hiking in Moab and Arches National Park is an ideal activity for families, or for hikers who are looking for easy trails in truly awe-inspiring landscapes. Many of the hikes in Moab and Arches National Park are short, not too steep, and pass along well-maintained paths, so it’s a good option if you’re a beginner hiker. Kids will love gazing upon the strange rock formations and towering arches, and this is a fabulous spot for photos and a leisurely hiking experience.
However, if you’re looking for something a little more strenuous, there are many challenging hikes in Moab, particularly if you decide to combine some of the shorter hikes into a full day trek. However, beware – in the hot summer months the blazing sun can make even easy trails a challenge, so you’ll need to be fit and well prepared to take on a full day hike. If you’re really adventurous, try your hand at trail running – in recent years the popularity of this activity has exploded in Moab, and you’ll find plenty of ways to push your limits and test your fitness.
Easy Hikes In Moab and Arches National Park
Grandstaff Trail Hike: This is a classic Moab trail suitable for hikers of all ages! The path leads through a narrow valley with high cliffs, before arriving at the Morning Glory Bridge. This natural arch spans 75m, and is a perfect spot to take some impressive photos. The trail is shaded and relatively flat for most of the way, making it one of the best easy hikes in Moab and Arches National Park.
Family Hikes In Moab and Arches National Park
Mill Creek Hike: This relatively easy hike follows Mill Creek through a picturesque gorge, passing a number of gushing waterfalls. It’s a wonderful spot for kids, especially older children who will love splashing in the cool waters! There are lots of possibilities to extend the hike by heading further up the valley, or you can simply relax with a picnic next to the tranquil pool that sits next to the final waterfall.
Day Hikes In Moab and Arches National Park
Portal Overlook Hike: This stunning, slightly challenging route is one of the best day hikes in Moab and Arches National Park. You’ll climb up a well-graded path and until you see the Le Sal Mountains come into view, a looming presence over the entire region. Come early in the season to catch a glimpse of these striking hills covered in snow.
Challenging Hikes In Moab and Arches National Park
Fisher Towers Hike: This popular route is one of the most popular challenging hikes in Moab and Arches National Park. The trail ascends slowly but surely to the majestic Fisher Towers, two monumental sandstone towers that make an excellent spot for climbing. You’ll have a panoramic view over this colorful region, taking in the glowing sandstone rocks, the brown Colorado River, and the steep cliffs of the valley.
Best Hikes In Moab and Arches National Park
Dead Horse Loop Point Hike: This fantastic hike offers a tremendous variety of scenery, passing by the ominously named Dead Horse Loop Point. This natural corral was once used as a home for the horses of local cowboys, many of which sadly died of exposure and lack of water. The views from here are unparalleled, with a panorama that extends over the colorful rocks, deep canyons, towering pinnacles, and the Colorado River.
Park Avenue Hike: This short hike is filled with incredible sights, characteristic of the region around Moab! The path runs down a picturesque narrow canyon with views of the sheer sandstone cliffs and desert towers along the way. Make sure to come with plenty of layers, as this narrow gorge acts as a wind tunnel, and it can become very chilly!
Devil’s Garden Hike: This beautiful route through the so-called ‘Devil’s Garden’ is a wonderful way to see some of incredible stone arches that the Moab region is famous for. In particular, don’t miss the stunning Tunnel Arch and Pine Tree Arch, just a short detour from the main trail. The final part of the hike is dominated by the delicate Landscape Arch, a staggering natural wonder that looms large over the trail.
Delicate Arch Hike: This popular route is one of the best hikes in Moab and Arches National Park. Take care on hot days, as the uphill sections are steep and can become a bit of a struggle. The trail climbs steeply, but the rewards are incredible: a perfect view of Delicate Arch, the largest in Arches National Park. Sit in the natural amphitheater underneath the arch, relax and enjoy the view!
Double Arch Hike: As the name suggests, this hike takes you to not one, but two incredible arches in Moab. The trail is easy, straightforward, and not too strenuous, making it perfect for families with young children or anyone looking for an easy hike. This magnificent natural monument was used as a filming location for Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, so this hike is a must for movie buffs!
Balanced Rock Hike: Moab and Arches National Park are famous for their arches and towering rock pinnacles, and Balanced Rock is one of the most famous natural stone monuments in the park. This looming tower stands 39m high, and is set against a dramatic, otherworldly landscape covered in strange rock formations and steep gorges. This short hike is the best way to experience Balanced Rock, and it’s a wonderful family expedition.
When Is The Best Time To Hike In Moab and Arches National Park?
Moab and Arches National Park is a year-round destination, and it’s possible to visit at almost any time. However, the extremes of desert weather mean that the winters can be very cold, with snow on higher ground, and the summers are extremely hot, hitting temperatures in the high 30s Celsius. As a result, we think that the best time to hike in Moab and Arches National Park is in spring and autumn. September and October are very popular times to visit the park, with perfect temperatures and a number of cultural events, including the Red Rocks Art Festival. However, the trails can be as busy as the peak summer months, so it’s not the best time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds. Comparatively, spring is less crowded, and you’ll enjoy mild temperatures, gorgeous sunsets, and plenty of family-friendly activities such as free guided day walks in Arches National Park. While many visitors overlook the winter months, due to the freezing temperatures and inclement weather, this can be a wonderful time to experience Moab, exploring the strange beauty of this region in peace and solitude.
Other Outdoor Activities In Moab and Arches National Park
This incredible region has emerged as a hub for adventure seekers in recent years, and in addition to hiking you’ll find plenty of other outdoor activities in Moab and Arches National Park! The strange carved rocks that make up this delicate landscape are a real draw for rock climbers, and you’ll find a wide array of routes all around Moab and within Arches National Park. In addition to this, the region has recently become a popular destination for trail running, backpacking, and camping, and it’s a wonderful place to observe the night sky in all its starry brilliance. Finally, if you’re keen to test the waters of the mighty Colorado River, you can always go rafting, canoeing or kayaking.
How To Plan A Trip To Moab and Arches National Park
The region around Moab and Arches National Park is a fabulous place for a hiking trip! If you’re thinking of heading here for some outdoor adventuring, don’t forget to check out our guide to planning a trip to Moab and Arches National Park. If you’re looking for ideas for awesome hikes in this region, we’ve put together a list of the top 10 hikes in Moab and Arches National Park, or look further afield and check out our list of the best hikes in Utah. We’ve got all the information you’ll need, plenty of recommendations on where to visit, stay and eat, and insider tips that will make your trip run smoothly.
Frequently-Asked-Questions About Moab and Arches National Park
How many days do you need in Moab?
The area around Moab is pack full of incredible sights and places to hike, and you could easily spend weeks (or even months!) exploring all the corners of this spectacular region. However, most people visit for 3-5 days. This will allow you to hike in Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, and drive to some of the most popular viewpoints.
What is the closest airport to Moab?
The closest major airport to Moab can be found in Salt Lake City, which is 236 miles, or a four-hour drive from Moab.
Can you visit Arches and Canyonlands National Parks in one day?
Moab is located next to two incredible national parks, Arches and Canyonlands, and during your trip you’ll definitely want to see them both. In the summer, when the days are longer, it’s possible to visit both parks in the same day, with a short hike in each of them. However, we’d recommend that you take a little more time to enjoy all that these two remarkable parks have to offer.
The best hikes in Moab and Arches National Park

01. Dead Horse Point Hike
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The Dead Horse Point hike knocks you out of your boots straight from the trailhead.… Read More

02. Portal Overlook
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An incredible hike with stunning views and way less traffic that most of the popular… Read More

03. Mill Creek
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Mere minutes from downtown Moab, this mostly flat hike leads up Mill Creek into a… Read More

04. Fisher Towers
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This popular trail brings hikers through monumental sandstone towers popular with many climbers, otherwise known… Read More

05. Grandstaff Trail
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This quintessential Moab trail leads up a tight cliff lined valley to the Morning Glory… Read More

06. Devils Garden Loop
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Devils Garden Path challenging hike snakes along a wide, well-travelled trail to an array of… Read More

07. Park Avenue
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This quick hike runs down a gorgeous narrow canyon, meeting up with the highway at… Read More

08. Devil's Garden
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This quick hike runs down a gorgeous narrow canyon, meeting up with the highway at… Read More

09. Delicate Arch
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The most popular trail in the park, the Delicate Arch hike leads up a steep… Read More

10. Double Arch
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A classic short hike that puts you directly underneath two – count ‘em two –arches!… Read More
Yes, there are more than 10
Moab and Arches National Park is so beautiful that we can not give you only 10 hikes. So here is a list of bonus hikes in Moab and Arches National Park that you should take a look at as well

11. Balanced Rock
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This quick jaunt from the parking lot brings you around the world famous Balanced Rock… Read More

12. The Corona Arch Trail
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The trail to the Corona Arch and the Bowtie Arch is a short, moderately challenging… Read More

13. Landscape Arch Trail
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The Landscape Arch Trail is one of the most popular and iconic hikes in Arches… Read More

14. Fiery Furnace and Surprise Arch
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The Fiery Furnace is a highly sought-out hike through a maze of sandstone and slickrock… Read More

15. Sand Dune Arch Trail
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The Sand Dune arch trail is a sandy little hike through a slot canyon to… Read More

16. Castleton Tower Trail
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The Castleton Tower Trail is a short but challenging hike to the incredible Castleton Tower… Read More

17. Windows Loop Trail
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The Windows Trail is a great family-friendly hike to an interesting and unique arch formation… Read More

18. Wolfe Ranch and Petroglyph Trail
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The Wolfe Ranch Petroglyph Trail is a short little hike past a historical homestead, to… Read More

19. Windows Loop to Turret Arch
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The Windows and Turret Trail is a great family-friendly hike to some beautiful and unique… Read More

20. Broken Arch Trail
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The Broken Arch Trail is a great little loop past two iconic arches in Arches… Read More

21. Skyline Arch Trail
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The Skyline Arch trail is an easy out-and-back route right beside the Devils Garden Campground.… Read More

22. Navajo Arch Trail
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The Navajo Arch trail is a well-travelled out and back trail past some of the… Read More

23. The Tunnel Arch and Pine Tree Arch Trail
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The Pine Tree Arch and Tunnel Arch Trail is a popular subsection of the Devils… Read More

24. Tunnel Arch Trail
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The Tunnel Arch Trail is a short, out-and-back hike leading to a beautiful arch just… Read More

25. Partition Arch Trail
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The Partition Arch Trail is a family-friendly, out and back route in Arches National Park.… Read More

26. Wall Arch and Pine Tree Arch
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The trail to Pine Tree Arch and beyond to Wall Arch is a family-friendly hike… Read More

27. Mount Peale Trail
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The Mount Peale trail is a challenging hike up to the summit of Mount Peale… Read More

28. Mill Canyon Dinosaur Trail
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The Mill Canyon Dinosaur Trail is an out-and-back trail just outside of Arches National Park.… Read More

29. Sorrel Ridge Trail
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The Sorrel Ridge trail is a great little hike that offers stunning views of the… Read More

30. Copper Ridge Dinosaur Tracks Trail
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The Copper Ridge Dinosaur Tracks Trail is a great stop just outside of Arches National… Read More

31. Tower Arch Trail
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The Tower Arch Trail is a moderately challenging hike with beautiful views of Arches National… Read More

32. Captain Ahab Trail
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The Captain Ahab Trail is a technical mountain biking trail that is also a popular… Read More

33. Moab Rim Trail
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The Moab Rim Trail is a challenging hike just outside of Moab. This trail is… Read More

34. Delicate Arch Viewpoint
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The Delicate Arch Viewpoint Trail is a short, family-friendly hike to a beautiful overlook. This… Read More

35. Klondike Bluffs Trail
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The Klondike Bluffs trail is a great low-traffic hike on the edge of Arches National… Read More

36. Tapestry Arch
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The Tapestry Arch is a family-friendly hike to a series of beautiful arches. This is… Read More

37. Eye of the Whale Trail
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The Eye of the Whale Trail is a great, family-friendly hike to a neat, tunnel-like… Read More

38. Professor Creek and Mary Jane Canyon Trail
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The Professor Creek and Mary Jane Canyon Trail is a hidden gem in Arches National… Read More

39. Dark Angel Trail
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The Dark Angel Trail is a great out-and-back hike in the Devils Garden. This trail… Read More

40. Private Arch Trail
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The Private Arch Trail is a rugged path along the Devils Garden Primitive Trail and… Read More

41. Parriott Mesa Trail
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The Parriott Mesa Trail is a short, technical hike that affords hikers incredible views of… Read More

42. The Gold Knob Trail
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The Gold Knob Trail is a moderately strenuous hike up to Gold Knob peak. This… Read More

43. The Portal Overlook Trail
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The Portal Overlook Trail is a fantastic hiking and biking trail just outside of Moab,… Read More

44. The StairMaster via Moab Rim Trail
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The StairMaster Trail is a fun, out-and-back trail just outside of Moab, UT. This hike… Read More

45. The Cove of Caves via Parade of Elephants Trail
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The Cove of Caves via the Parade of Elephants Trail is a beautiful, low-traffic hike… Read More

46. Cowboy Jacuzzis via Mill Creek Rim Trail
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The Cowboy Jacuzzi Trail is a rugged, dog-friendly hike just outside of Moab, UT. This… Read More

47. Jackson Hole Trail
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The Jackson Hole Trail is a long hike through a beautiful area just outside the… Read More

48. Jeep Arch
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The Jeep Arch Trail is an adventurous little loop just outside of Moab. This trail… Read More

49. Moab Canyon Pathway
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The Moab Canyon Pathway Trail is a beautiful section of the Moab Canyon Pathway. This… Read More

50. Slickrock Practice Loop
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The Slickrock Practice loop is a super fun lollipop trail just outside of Moab. This… Read More

51. Moonflower Canyon Trail
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The Moonflower Canyon Trail is a great little hike for the whole family. This route… Read More

52. Ring Arch Trail
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The Ring Arch Trail is a beautiful, adventurous hike that the whole family can enjoy.… Read More

53. Hunters Canyon Trail
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The Hunters Canyon Trail is a fantastic route for the whole family including the pup!… Read More

54. Lower Courthouse Wash Trail
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The Lower Courthouse Wash trail is a fun adventure just off Highway 191 north of… Read More

55. Dinosaur Stomping Ground Trail
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Amature, aspiring, and professional paleontologists delight! The Dinosaur Stomping grounds trail is a short hike… Read More

56. Mountain View Trail via Warner Campground
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The Mountain View Trail is a low-traffic hike to fantastic views of the Manti-La Sal… Read More

57. The Amphitheater Loop
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The Amphitheater Loop is a great hike through the desert landscape just northeast of Moab.… Read More

58. Amasa Back and Cliffhanger Trail
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The Amasa Back and Cliffhanger Trail is a challenging hiking and biking route in Dead… Read More

59. Mount Tukuhnikivatz Trail
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The Mount Tukuhnikivatz Trail is a challenging and adventurous route for experienced hikers. This trail… Read More

60. Sand Dune Arch and Broken Arch Trail
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The Sand Dune Arch and Broken Arch trail is a great hike for the whole… Read More

61. Sand Dune Arch to Broken Arch Loop
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The Sand Dune Arch to Broken Arch Loop is a great hike just outside the… Read More

62. The Tunnel
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The Tunnel is a short, out-and-back route to a unique geological formation in Arches National… Read More

63. Lower Tower Arch Trail
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The Lower Tower Arch Trail is a short and rugged trail to Tower Arch in… Read More

64. Mount Peale and Tukuhnikivatz Loop
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The Mount Peale and Mount Tukuhnikivatz Loop is a challenging route for experienced hikers. This… Read More

65. Moab Rim Arch and Tukuhnikivista Arch Trail
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The Moab Rim Arch and Tukuhnikivista Arch Trail is a lovely hike just south of… Read More

66. Squaw Spring Trail
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The Squaw Spring Trail is a moderately challenging hike through the beautiful and enchanting Manti-La… Read More

67. Brumley Arch Trail
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The Brumley Arch trail is a short but steep, dog-friendly trail in the Manti-La Sal… Read More

68. Clark Lake Loop
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The Clark Lake Loop is a beautiful forest hike that connects Clark lake with Oowah… Read More

69. Onion Bench Creek
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The Onion Bench Creek Trail is a moderately challenging hike in Professor Valley northeast of… Read More

70. Sylvester Trail
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The Sylvester Trail is a moderately challenging route with beautiful views of the Utah desert.… Read More

71. Klondike Bluff Outer Loop
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The Klondike Bluffs Outer Loop is a great low-traffic trail just outside of Arches National… Read More

72. Jewell Tibbets Arch
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The Jewell Tibbets Arch Trail is a short, relatively flat hike to an impressive sandstone… Read More

73. Mustang Loop Trail
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The Mustang Loop is a fantastic, little-hiked trail nestled between Arches National Park and Canyonlands… Read More

74. Dead Horse Rim Loop and Big Horn Overlook Trail
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The Dead Horse Rim Loop and Big Horn Overlook Trail is a fantastic day-hike in… Read More

75. Colorado River Overlook Trail
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The Colorado River Overlook Trail is a short and easy route that affords hikers stunning… Read More

76. Dead Horse Visitors Center Loop
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The Dead Horse Visitor Center Loop is a great way to stretch your legs and… Read More

77. Big Horn Overlook Trail
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The Big Horn Overlook Trail is a family-friendly hike in Dead Horse Point State Park.… Read More
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