Windows Loop Trail
The Windows Trail is a great family-friendly hike to an interesting and unique arch formation in Arches National Park. This trail is well-marked and well-trafficked, so it’s a great place to go with kids or to get started as a beginner hiker. The Windows (also known as the Spectacles) are two arches that formed in the same sandstone fin and are reminiscent of a face wearing glasses (or “spectacles”).
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Route Description for Windows Loop Trail
The Windows loop is a great, family-friendly hike with beautiful views of Arches National Park. This hike gets hot and sunny throughout the day, so make sure you put on sunblock, wear a good sunhat, and bring along lots of water. This route is part of a larger network of trails and can get a lot of traffic, so go early in the day if you want to have some time to yourself on this little loop.
The Windows Hike is a great way to get out and explore Arches National Park if you are a beginner hiker or are bringing along kids with you. This hike is reasonably flat, well-maintained and the views will inspire you to keep exploring. The Windows loop is also a great place for photographers to get out and capture some epic photos of Arches National Park; this trail is best photographed at sunrise when the early morning light illuminates the dramatic Windows Arch formation.
From the Windows Trailhead, follow the path southeast for 0.2 km. At the divide, take the path on your left to follow the loop clockwise past the north window, then down to the south window. At the South window, the trail will divide again, stick right to stay on the loop. Continue to stay right at the subsequent divide where a side trail splits off leading to Turret Arch. Just 0.5 km later, you will find yourself back at the beginning of the loop. Follow the main path back to the trailhead.
If you are looking to spend more time exploring this area, the Turret Arch Trail is a great addition to this little loop.
Trail Highlights
The Windows
The Windows, also known as the Spectacles, are two eye-shaped arches within the same sandstone fin. This formation calls to mind the image of a face wearing glasses.
Frequently Asked Questions
How were the Windows Arches Formed?
The Windows Arches were formed when weak sections of the sandstone fin were eroded by wind and rain.
Insider Hints for Windows Loop Trail
- This trail gets busy throughout the day, head out early to beat the crowds and enjoy the Windows in peace and solitude
- This hike is great for beginners or families with kids
- If you want to spend more time in the area, a short hike to the Turret Arch is a great addition to this trail
Getting to the Windows Loop Trail Trailhead
From the Arches Visitor Center off of highway 191, follow Main Park Road Northeast for approximately 14.8 km. Look for Windows Road on your right hand side, and turn right when you see it. Follow Windows Road to the very end (approximately 4.0 km), where you will find the Windows Trailhead. The Windows Loop begins here.
Route Information
Windows Loop Trail Elevation Graph
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