Double Arch
Two colossal sandstone arches rising from a single base, offering an accessible and awe-inspiring spectacle in Arches National Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds & heat
Double Arch
Best Time
Beat the crowds & heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Two colossal sandstone arches rising from a single base, offering an accessible and awe-inspiring spectacle in Arches National Park.
"It's a magnificent place. A stunning natural rock formation. Breathtaking view."
🎯 Book Timed Entry Early
Secure your park entry permit in advance, especially for busy weekends. :ticket:
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The desert sun is intense; stay hydrated on all trails, even short ones. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Double Arch
Windows Section
Two colossal arches rising from a single base, offering a breathtaking and accessible spectacle. Climb beneath for a unique perspective.
Turret Arch Views
Windows Section
A fantastic arch for diverse photography angles, offering creative framing opportunities. Often considered a top photo spot.
Windows Loop Trail
Windows Section
A short, easy loop connecting several impressive arches, including North and South Window. Great for all ages.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timed Entry is Key
Best Time to Visit for Comfort
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Timed Entry Early
Secure your park entry permit in advance, especially for busy weekends. :ticket:
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The desert sun is intense; stay hydrated on all trails, even short ones. :droplet:
📸 Best Light for Photos
Early morning offers magical light and fewer people for stunning arch photos.
🚗 Park Smartly
The lower parking lot at Double Arch often has more spots and easier access. :car:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Timed Entry Early
Secure your park entry permit in advance, especially for busy weekends. :ticket:
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The desert sun is intense; stay hydrated on all trails, even short ones. :droplet:
📸 Best Light for Photos
Early morning offers magical light and fewer people for stunning arch photos.
🚗 Park Smartly
The lower parking lot at Double Arch often has more spots and easier access. :car:
👟 Easy & Accessible
The trail to Double Arch is short, mostly flat, and great for families and all ages. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Double Arch for its magnificent scale, accessibility, and stunning beauty, calling it a must-see in Arches National Park. Many highlight the ease of the short hike and the incredible photo opportunities. Some note that climbing on the arch itself can be risky, and like all desert locations, visiting during peak heat or crowds can detract from the experience.
"Nature's beauty. One of the best Arch in the national park. It ks a short walk frlm the parking or even from the Windows trail. You can climb on rocks to get up close to the arch. It is a beautiful formation. There are lot of photo spot out here."
Mohit Gupta
"It's a magnificent place. A stunning natural rock formation. It takes 5-10 minutes to reach. You'll walk for 5 minutes over slightly uneven terrain. It's a breathtaking view. I recommend visiting in March-April or September-October. It's important to come in the right season to avoid the heat.
Unbelievable 🦎👍"
Dogu GUL
"Super short & easy hike for people of all ages! Double Arch is probably my favorite in the whole park due to it's vastness, great photo backdrop and great accessibility. We visited on a Friday in June (7am timed entry) and made this our first stop so we could get family photos without a crowd. We got to this arch around 8am and there was only 1 other person. Definitely a must do, especially if you have children! As always, start early and don't forget your water! :)"
Brianna W
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Double Arch is located in the Windows Section of Arches National Park. Drive 9.2 miles up the Arches Entrance Road from the park entrance, then take the first right after Balanced Rock into the Windows section. Follow this road 2.7 miles to its end at the parking circle. The Double Arch Trailhead is at the north end of the parking lot.
Yes, the trail to Double Arch from the parking area is approximately 0.5 miles round trip and is wheelchair accessible with assistance.
From the park entrance, drive 9.2 miles on Arches Entrance Road. Turn right after Balanced Rock into the Windows section and drive 2.7 miles to the end of the road. The trailhead is at the north end of the parking lot.
Yes, there is a dedicated parking area for Double Arch, which is the starting point for the short trail to the formation.
From Moab, head north on US-191 and turn right onto Arches Scenic Drive. Follow signs for Arches National Park and then for the Windows Section.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Arches National Park requires a timed entry permit for most of the year. It's crucial to book these in advance online, especially for popular dates.
The entrance fee for Arches National Park is typically per vehicle. Check the official NPS website for current pricing. Timed entry permits are separate.
Arches National Park is generally open 24 hours a day, but access may be restricted by timed entry reservations. Visitor centers have specific hours.
No, during the period when timed entry is required, you will need a timed entry permit to enter Arches National Park, which includes access to Double Arch.
Timed entry permits for Arches National Park are typically available through Recreation.gov. Book them as early as possible.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
Early morning light provides beautiful illumination and fewer crowds, making it ideal for photography. The golden hour before sunset can also be stunning.
Yes, Double Arch is a popular photo spot with many angles. You can get great shots from the base, or even climb on rocks for different perspectives.
Its unique formation of two arches from one base, vastness, and accessibility make it a prime subject for photographers.
While you can climb on the rocks beneath and around the base of Double Arch, climbing on top of the arch itself is generally discouraged and can be dangerous.
The most popular viewpoint is from the trail leading up to the arch, offering a full view of both spans. You can also get closer by walking beneath the arches.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The hike to Double Arch is very short, about 0.5 miles (0.8 km) round trip from the parking area. It's a quick and rewarding walk.
No, the Double Arch trail is considered easy. It's mostly flat with some slightly uneven terrain, suitable for most visitors.
The Double Arch trail has minimal elevation gain, around 95 feet (29 meters), making it an easy walk.
Yes, you can walk directly beneath and through the massive openings of Double Arch. It's an awe-inspiring experience.
Double Arch is in the Windows Section, close to Turret Arch, North Window, and South Window. These are all within a short walking distance of each other.
🎫 🔊 Acoustics
Yes, Double Arch is known for its amazing acoustics. A loud shout can be heard from the parking lot, about an eighth of a mile away.
The unique shape and size of the arch create a natural amphitheater effect, amplifying sounds.
Visitors often test the acoustics by shouting. It's a fun and memorable experience to hear your voice carry.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Visiting early in the morning, around 8 AM, is highly recommended to avoid crowds and the intense desert heat.
🚶♀️ Easy Walkers & Accessibility
Combine your visit to Double Arch with other accessible trails in the Windows Section, such as the paths to North Window and South Window. These areas are designed for easy exploration, allowing everyone to enjoy the breathtaking sandstone formations of Arches National Park.
📸 Photographers & Art Lovers
Explore different angles from the base and surrounding rocks. The nearby Turret Arch is also a favorite for its photographic versatility.
Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons or on weekdays to enjoy a more serene photography experience. The sheer scale and natural beauty of Double Arch offer a truly inspiring subject for any art lover. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Geological Formation of Double Arch
This formation process, combined with millions of years of sedimentary rock deposition and tectonic activity, has sculpted this magnificent natural wonder. The sheer scale and the way the two arches spring from a single base are a testament to the powerful forces of nature. Visitors can learn more about its formation from interpretive signs near the arch.
The accessibility of Double Arch allows visitors to get up close and personal with this geological masterpiece. You can walk directly beneath and through the arches, marveling at their enormity and the intricate patterns in the sandstone.
Photography Tips for Double Arch
Consider using a wide-angle lens to capture the full grandeur of both arches and their surroundings. Experiment with different perspectives: shoot from the base looking up, frame the arches with foreground elements like desert plants, or even try capturing silhouettes against the sky. The Windows Loop Trail nearby also offers excellent vantage points and opportunities to photograph Turret Arch, which is often cited as a favorite for its photographic potential.
To avoid crowds and capture serene shots, visit during off-peak hours or on weekdays. The early morning, especially around 8 AM, is ideal for getting family photos without many other people in the frame.
Exploring the Windows Section
The Windows Loop Trail connects these formations, allowing you to experience multiple arches with minimal hiking. The trails are generally easy and accessible, making this section perfect for families and visitors with limited mobility. The proximity of these attractions means you can see a significant portion of Arches' iconic scenery in just a few hours.
Don't miss the chance to appreciate the acoustics at Double Arch; a shout can carry surprisingly far!
The area also features interpretive signs that provide fascinating insights into the geology and history of the park. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit