Jacob Hamblin Arch
A colossal sandstone arch in a remote desert canyon, offering a challenging hike and unparalleled natural beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for hiking
Jacob Hamblin Arch
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for hiking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A colossal sandstone arch in a remote desert canyon, offering a challenging hike and unparalleled natural beauty.
"Photos never do it justice—the sheer scale, the glowing sandstone, it’s absolutely breathtaking."
Pack extra water! 💧
Crucial for this desert hike. Store water in your vehicle for the return trip.
Consider an overnight trip ⛺
Experience the canyon fully. Permits are free and self-issued at the trailhead.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Jacob Hamblin Arch
Coyote Gulch
A colossal natural sandstone arch, dwarfing everything around it. The scale is truly awe-inspiring.
Canyon Overhangs
Near Jacob Hamblin Arch
Massive, awe-inspiring overhangs next to the arch offer incredible scale and photo opportunities.
Coyote Gulch Stream
Coyote Gulch
A serene, tree-lined streambed that guides you through the canyon, offering a refreshing contrast to the desert.
Swiss Falls
East of Jacob Hamblin Arch
A rewarding destination with deeper swimming water and cool camp spots, worth exploring past the main arch.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan for a Long Day or Overnight
Water is Key in the Desert
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack extra water! 💧
Crucial for this desert hike. Store water in your vehicle for the return trip.
Consider an overnight trip ⛺
Experience the canyon fully. Permits are free and self-issued at the trailhead.
Pump your water 🚰
Plenty of water access in the canyon, but always treat it before drinking.
Watch for wildlife 🦌
Deer and mice are common. Secure your food to prevent tent damage.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack extra water! 💧
Crucial for this desert hike. Store water in your vehicle for the return trip.
Consider an overnight trip ⛺
Experience the canyon fully. Permits are free and self-issued at the trailhead.
Pump your water 🚰
Plenty of water access in the canyon, but always treat it before drinking.
Watch for wildlife 🦌
Deer and mice are common. Secure your food to prevent tent damage.
Leave no trace! 💩
Pack out all trash, including human waste.
Hike the Hurricane Wash Trail 🚶♀️
A popular route that leads to the arch, offering stunning canyon scenery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Jacob Hamblin Arch as one of Utah's most beautiful and awe-inspiring natural wonders, with many calling it a favorite hike. The sheer scale of the arch and its surrounding overhangs leave a lasting impression. However, the long and strenuous nature of the hike, coupled with the need for significant water and preparation, can be challenging for some.
"Backpacked Hurricane wash August 10-12. It takes about 5 miles (~2 hours) from trailhead to start seeing the cool camp spots at the start of the canyon with reasonable water access. We camped at the spot where red well trail converges with hurricane wash trail.
From there it’s about 1 hour of meandering the canyon until you get to see Jacob Hamblin. Well worth the trip and definitely the coolest spot I’ve seen in Utah so far.
We spent the rest of the day exploring the canyon before looping back and setting up camp at Jacob Hamblin. Then headed out the following day. There are cool spots past Hamblin but like others have said the trail starts to get narrow and bushy east of the Black Lagoon.
Some tips:
1. Pump water. There is plenty of water access in the canyon.
2. Keep water in your vehicle for when you leave.
3. Pack in enough water to make it out of the canyon. The heat is brutal in the first 2 hours of hiking in and HIKING OUT. I easily drank most of my water hiking out but planned ahead for this by storing 5Gal of water in my truck.
4. The swimming hole was stagnant water when we went. Leeches.
5. Deer live in the canyon and so do cute mice. Don’t leave food in tent or they may chew your tent to access it.
6. Pack out poo.
7. Permits are free and self filled out at the trailhead on carbon paper.
8. We did 2 days. I’d say a 3 day trip would be camp at the trailhead converge (red well/hurricane trails), then hike past Hamblin and camp past the lagoon or near cheese falls, then back to Hamblin to camp, then hike out. Hamblin is the coolest spot but cheese falls has some swimming depth water and cool camp spots just east."
W H
"Disclaimer- this is a single arch natural bridge style. From what I saw in pictures and language I was looking for a double arch.
Otherwise this is a really cool spot. Not the arch but the two massive overhangs next to it. It’s bet hard to picture the scale and breadth of their size without going there. The area around Swiss falls ifs very rewarding if you’ve come all this way."
Alex NEFF
"Awsome acoustic sounds while walking to JHA, the view isn't bad either, this is one of my favorite hikes."
Dan Jager
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Jacob Hamblin Arch is located in Coyote Gulch, within Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. The most common access points are via the Hurricane Wash Trailhead or the Crack-in-the-Wall Trailhead. Both require driving on unpaved roads, so a high-clearance vehicle is recommended. The hike from Hurricane Wash is approximately 5 miles to the start of the canyon proper, leading to the arch.
While some visitors manage with standard vehicles, a high-clearance vehicle is strongly advised for the unpaved roads leading to the trailheads. These roads can be sandy and rough, especially after rain.
Yes, there are parking areas at the Hurricane Wash and Crack-in-the-Wall trailheads. However, these can fill up, especially during peak season. Arriving early is recommended.
GPS can be helpful, but cell service is unreliable in this remote area. It's wise to download offline maps and have a physical map as a backup.
Shuttle services are not commonly available for this specific hike. Most visitors drive their own vehicles or arrange private transportation.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, permits for day hiking or overnight backpacking in Coyote Gulch are free and self-issued at the trailhead on carbon paper. However, it's essential to fill out the permit accurately.
Jacob Hamblin Arch is an outdoor natural formation and is accessible at any time. However, hiking during daylight hours is strongly recommended for safety.
There is no entrance fee for Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument itself. The permits for Coyote Gulch are free.
Since permits are free and self-issued at the trailhead, there's no need to buy them in advance. Just arrive and fill one out.
The main restriction is to practice Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all trash and waste. Be mindful of the fragile desert environment.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike to Jacob Hamblin Arch via Hurricane Wash is approximately 14 miles round trip and can take 10-12 hours for a day hike. Many opt for an overnight trip to explore more thoroughly.
The hike involves walking through a sandy streambed, wading through shallow water, and navigating canyon walls. The path can be sandy and sometimes bushy, especially east of the Black Lagoon.
It's considered a strenuous hike due to its length and desert conditions. The path can be sketchy and difficult in places, though ropes are sometimes available to assist.
Yes, there are designated camping spots within Coyote Gulch, including some near Jacob Hamblin Arch itself. These spots offer a unique experience.
Beyond the arch, you can explore other natural formations, the Black Lagoon, Swiss Falls, and enjoy the serene canyon environment.
🎫 💧 Water & Facilities
Yes, there is typically water in the streambed of Coyote Gulch. However, it's crucial to pump and treat all water before drinking due to potential contamination.
There are no developed restrooms or facilities within Coyote Gulch. Visitors must pack out all trash, including human waste.
While there are water sources, some may be stagnant or have leeches, as noted by one reviewer. Swimming is possible, but caution is advised.
Carry enough water to last your entire hike, plus extra for emergencies. Storing water in your vehicle for your return is highly recommended.
If you run out of water, you can attempt to pump and treat water from the streambed, but this carries risks. Proper planning is essential to avoid this situation.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, creating dramatic shadows and highlighting the sandstone colors.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the arch's scale. Consider a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions and a waterproof bag for protecting gear.
The area around the arch and its massive overhangs provides stunning perspectives. Experiment with different angles to capture the grandeur.
Drone usage is subject to regulations within National Monuments. Check current BLM (Bureau of Land Management) guidelines for Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument before flying.
Include a person or a recognizable object in your frame to give a sense of scale. Shooting from a lower angle can also emphasize its height.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Focus on the shorter sections of the canyon if you're looking for a family-friendly experience. The initial parts of the Hurricane Wash trail offer a taste of the canyon's beauty without the full commitment. Always prioritize safety and be prepared for the desert environment.
🎒 Backpackers
Plan your water sources carefully, as you'll need to carry enough for your entire trip or rely on treating water from the stream. Secure your food from curious mice and other wildlife. The experience of waking up in the canyon, surrounded by towering sandstone walls, is unforgettable.
📸 Photographers
Bring a wide-angle lens to encompass the grandeur of the formations. A tripod will be invaluable for low-light shots and capturing the subtle details of the canyon. Be prepared to protect your gear from sand and water, as you'll be hiking through a streambed.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Epic Hike into Coyote Gulch
This hike is not for the faint of heart. It's a significant distance, often exceeding 10 miles round trip, and can take 10-12 hours for a day hike. Many travelers recommend an overnight backpacking trip to truly savor the experience and avoid exhaustion. Free, self-issued permits are available at the trailhead, making it accessible for those prepared. Remember to pack ample water and treat any water you collect from the canyon.
As you venture deeper, the canyon reveals its wonders: unique rock formations, lush vegetation clinging to the walls, and the ever-present sound of trickling water. The anticipation builds with every bend, culminating in the breathtaking reveal of Jacob Hamblin Arch and its colossal overhangs.
Understanding Jacob Hamblin Arch and its Surroundings
The area east of the arch, including the Black Lagoon and Swiss Falls, offers further exploration opportunities. However, the trail can become narrower and more overgrown in these sections, presenting a different kind of challenge. Swiss Falls, in particular, is noted for having deeper water and appealing campsites, making it a worthwhile extension for those on longer trips.
This region is part of the vast Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, a protected area known for its rugged beauty and remote wilderness. The experience of being in Coyote Gulch, with its towering canyon walls and serene stream, feels like stepping into another world, far removed from the hustle of modern life.
Essential Gear and Safety for Desert Hiking
Footwear is also key. Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support are recommended, as the terrain can be uneven and sandy. Consider bringing water shoes or sandals for wading through the stream. Sun protection is paramount: a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are essential.
Beyond water and footwear, pack a first-aid kit, a map and compass (or GPS with downloaded offline maps), a headlamp or flashlight (especially if camping), and a way to treat water, such as a water filter or purification tablets. Always inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time.
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