Corona Arch Trail

The trailhead for the Corona Arch Trail is located near Moab, Utah. You'll find ample parking available at the designated Corona Arch Trailhead. It's easily accessible by car.

No, the Corona Arch Trail is situated outside of Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, so you do not need any permits or pay entrance fees to hike it. This also often means fewer crowds compared to trails within the national parks.

The best time to hike the Corona Arch Trail is typically during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when temperatures are milder. Summer can be very hot, making early morning or late afternoon hikes preferable. Winter offers a unique, quieter experience but can have colder temperatures and potentially icy sections.

Yes, the Corona Arch Trail is dog-friendly. Many hikers bring their dogs along. However, always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you pack out all waste to preserve the natural environment.

The trail features varied terrain, including sections of road and slickrock. It's generally well-marked with rock cairns and green paint. It's rated as moderate due to a few challenging sections, such as areas with safety cables to assist with slightly exposed parts, steps carved into the sandstone, and a short ladder climb over a ledge. While these add to the adventure, they require some agility.

The trail offers several impressive sights. Shortly after starting, you'll cross a railroad track. Along the way, you'll pass the beautiful Bowtie Arch before reaching the magnificent Corona Arch, which is 140 feet wide and 105 feet high. You may also spot Pinto Arch from a distance.

Yes, many families with children successfully complete the Corona Arch Trail. While it's rated moderate due to sections with cables and a ladder, these features can be an exciting challenge for older children. Younger children might need assistance or to be carried through these parts. It's a rewarding hike for adventurous families.

The Corona Arch Trail is approximately 3 miles round trip. Most hikers complete it in about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on their pace and how much time they spend enjoying the arches and scenery.

Yes, the trail includes a few notable features that contribute to its moderate difficulty. You'll encounter the Moki Steps and Chain Section, which involves steps carved into the sandstone and safety cables to assist hikers. There's also a short ladder climb over a ledge. These sections add an adventurous element to the hike.

To avoid the busiest times, consider hiking early in the morning or later in the afternoon, especially during peak seasons (spring and fall). Since the trail is outside the national parks, it generally experiences fewer crowds than popular park trails, but it can still get busy. Weekdays are usually less crowded than weekends.

For this hike, it's recommended to bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as there are no water sources on the trail. Sturdy hiking shoes with good grip are essential for the slickrock and uneven terrain. Sun protection (hat, sunscreen) is also important, as much of the trail is exposed. Snacks and a camera are also good ideas.