Corona Arch
A stunning, free-access sandstone arch near Moab, offering a moderate hike with unique features like ladders and chains.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light, fewer crowds
Corona Arch
Best Time
Golden hour light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning, free-access sandstone arch near Moab, offering a moderate hike with unique features like ladders and chains.
"This is one of my favorite short hikes in Moab. Quick, beautiful, and with stunning views."
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The trail has slickrock, ladders, and chains. Good grip shoes are essential for safety and enjoyment .
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
There's very little shade on the trail, so stay hydrated, especially during warmer months .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Corona Arch
Trailhead near Moab, UT
A massive, breathtaking natural sandstone arch offering stunning desert vistas. A must-see!
Bowtie Arch
On the Corona Arch trail
Often seen as a bonus on the Corona Arch hike, this unique arch is a great photo opportunity.
Pinto Arch
On the Corona Arch trail
An optional addition to the main hike, offering a quieter experience and more arch views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds to Corona Arch
+1Trail Features & What to Pack
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The trail has slickrock, ladders, and chains. Good grip shoes are essential for safety and enjoyment.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
There's very little shade on the trail, so stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Sunset and sunrise offer the best light for photos and a more magical experience.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trail
Leashed dogs are welcome on this trail, making it a great option for pet owners
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The trail has slickrock, ladders, and chains. Good grip shoes are essential for safety and enjoyment.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
There's very little shade on the trail, so stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Sunset and sunrise offer the best light for photos and a more magical experience.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trail
Leashed dogs are welcome on this trail, making it a great option for pet owners
🚫 No Entrance Fee
Enjoy this beautiful hike without any park fees, making it a budget-friendly option [^R].
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Corona Arch, calling it a rewarding and fun hike with unique features like a ladder and chains. Many appreciate that it's dog-friendly and free to access, offering stunning desert scenery and multiple arches. Some note it can get busy, and the lack of shade requires preparation.
"Moderate hike with really fun features like crossing the railroad tracks, a ladder, and steep slick rock steps with a chain. Really rewarding and lots of places to take breaks. I would recommend this to anyone going to Moab. 3 arches visible on this hike."
Katherine Opfar
"Very nice afternoon hike up to the arch. There's just enough shade under outcroppings to provide respite. The chain assisted climb was not a problem even with my tender 70 year old knees."
David Stambaugh
"Amazing experience with my dog. The scenery is gorgeous, the trail is a little bit challenging for the big dogs, I’m talking about the real crawling period, but my Coco made it."
am dong
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Corona Arch is located just a short drive (about 30 minutes) west of Moab, Utah, off Highway 279. The trailhead is easily accessible and starts near the Colorado River [^R]. There's a parking area, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak times.
No, Corona Arch is not located within Arches National Park. It's on public land just outside the park, meaning you don't need a park pass or timed entry reservation to visit.
There is a parking lot at the trailhead. It can get very busy, particularly on weekends and during holidays. Arriving early or late in the day is recommended to secure a spot.
Public transportation options directly to the Corona Arch trailhead are limited. It's best to have your own vehicle or arrange a ride-share service from Moab.
Yes, there are pit toilets available at the Corona Arch trailhead, which can be convenient for visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee or ticket required to hike to Corona Arch. It's a free public land access point, making it a great budget-friendly activity near Moab [^R].
Since it's on public land, Corona Arch is accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and the best experience. Sunrise and sunset are popular times.
No, there is no reservation system for Corona Arch. Unlike Arches National Park, you can visit anytime without booking in advance.
A National Parks Pass is not required for Corona Arch as it is not part of the National Park system. The hike is free for everyone.
To avoid crowds, aim for early mornings or late afternoons, especially on weekdays. Sunset hikes are beautiful but can still attract many visitors.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main trail to Corona Arch is approximately 2.3 miles roundtrip. If you loop in Pinto Arch, it can be slightly longer.
The trail is generally considered moderate. It involves some elevation gain, slickrock scrambling, a ladder with chains, and steep sections.
Yes, there's a ladder section with chains to help with a steep climb, and some slickrock areas. While manageable for most, it can be a bit challenging for those with mobility issues or very young children.
Yes, Corona Arch is a dog-friendly trail! Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great option for visitors traveling with their pets
The trail also passes by Bowtie Arch and Pinto Arch, offering a '2-for-1' or '3-for-1' arch experience on a single hike.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic lighting for photography. Midday sun can be harsh and create strong shadows.
Absolutely! The trail itself offers beautiful desert landscapes, and you'll pass Bowtie Arch and Pinto Arch, which are also photogenic.
Wide-angle shots to capture the scale of the arch are popular. You can also get creative with shots framing the arch against the sky or including hikers for perspective.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check current BLM (Bureau of Land Management) guidelines for the area, as restrictions may apply to protect wildlife and visitor experience.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the arch's grandeur. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions during sunrise/sunset. Don't forget extra batteries and memory cards!
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The fact that it's dog-friendly also means the whole family, including furry members, can enjoy the outing [^R].🐶 Dog Owners
[^R]. The trail offers varied terrain, from flat sections to slickrock scrambles, providing a good workout for your dog. Be sure to bring extra water for your pet, as the desert heat can be intense, and there are no water sources along the trail. Always clean up after your pet to keep this beautiful area pristine.📸 Photographers
+1 The unique shape and scale of the arch allow for dramatic wide-angle shots. Don't forget to capture the surrounding desert landscapes and the smaller arches like Bowtie and Pinto along the trail. Consider bringing a tripod for low-light conditions and a variety of lenses to capture both the grand vistas and intricate details.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Corona Arch Trail Experience
Despite its moderate rating, the trail is exposed with very little shade, making hydration and sun protection crucial.
The effort is well worth it, as the payoff is the magnificent Corona Arch, a massive natural sandstone formation that dominates the landscape. Visitors often describe the feeling of awe upon reaching the arch, with many finding it to be one of their favorite hikes in the Moab area.+1 The trail is also dog-friendly, allowing you to share this incredible experience with your canine companions [^R].For the best experience, consider visiting during the 'golden hours' of sunrise or sunset. The soft light enhances the red rock colors and creates a magical atmosphere, often with fewer people than midday.
+1 While the trail is free and doesn't require reservations, its popularity means the parking lot can fill up, so an early start or late finish is advisable to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquility of the desert landscape.Beyond Corona: Exploring Other Moab Arches
These hikes offer different challenges and perspectives, from strenuous climbs to longer treks through the backcountry.For those seeking arches outside the national parks, options abound. Bowtie Arch and Pinto Arch are conveniently located on the same trail as Corona Arch, offering a fantastic '2-for-1' or '3-for-1' experience.
Other notable arches accessible via hiking include Morning Glory Bridge, Longbow Arch, Gemini Bridges, Jeep Arch, Funnel Arch, Brumley Arch, and Looking Glass Arch. Many of these are located on public lands managed by the BLM, often with free access and fewer crowds than the national parks.When planning your arch-hopping adventure, remember that conditions can vary significantly. Some trails are short and easy, while others are long and demanding. Always check trail conditions, pack adequate water and sun protection, and be aware of the weather. Exploring these natural formations is a core part of the Moab experience, offering breathtaking views and a deep connection with the desert landscape.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit