Kolob Arch
A secluded section of Zion National Park featuring the massive Kolob Arch, accessible via a challenging but scenic hike.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Kolob Arch
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A secluded section of Zion National Park featuring the massive Kolob Arch, accessible via a challenging but scenic hike.
"The journey to Kolob Arch is a gift, offering solitude and awe-inspiring views of towering red cliffs."
Pack ample water! 💧
The 14-mile hike to Kolob Arch is strenuous and often unshaded. Carry more water than you think you'll need.
Start your hike early ☀️
Beat the desert heat and enjoy cooler temperatures on the trail, especially during summer months.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kolob Arch
Kolob Canyons Section, Zion National Park
One of the world's largest freestanding natural arches, a breathtaking sight after a rewarding hike.
Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive
Kolob Canyons Section, Zion National Park
A stunning 5-mile drive with towering red cliffs and panoramic views, offering a taste of Kolob's grandeur.
La Verkin Creek Trail
Kolob Canyons Section, Zion National Park
The primary trail to Kolob Arch, offering diverse scenery from canyons to creeks and impressive rock formations.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Solitude
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Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack ample water! 💧
The 14-mile hike to Kolob Arch is strenuous and often unshaded. Carry more water than you think you'll need.
Start your hike early ☀️
Beat the desert heat and enjoy cooler temperatures on the trail, especially during summer months.
Embrace the journey 🚶♀️
Many find the scenery along the La Verkin Creek Trail as rewarding as the arch itself. Enjoy the solitude.
Check trail conditions 🗺️
Conditions can vary. Always check with the park service for the latest updates before heading out.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack ample water! 💧
The 14-mile hike to Kolob Arch is strenuous and often unshaded. Carry more water than you think you'll need.
Start your hike early ☀️
Beat the desert heat and enjoy cooler temperatures on the trail, especially during summer months.
Embrace the journey 🚶♀️
Many find the scenery along the La Verkin Creek Trail as rewarding as the arch itself. Enjoy the solitude.
Check trail conditions 🗺️
Conditions can vary. Always check with the park service for the latest updates before heading out.
Look for the arch carefully 👀
The arch can be subtle from the trail. Know where to look to fully appreciate its scale.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Kolob Arch for its stunning, uncrowded scenery and the rewarding, albeit challenging, hike. While some find the arch itself less impactful than the journey, most agree the solitude and natural beauty make it a worthwhile adventure. The lack of shade and the strenuous nature of the hike are common drawbacks, especially in summer.
"Amazing arch but you'll have to earn those views. 14 + miles 2000 + feet round trip from the Lee Pass trailhead in Kolob, Zion National Park. You'll want to pack plenty of water as at the time you couldn't filter water from the creek due to a dangerous algae in the water. Plan for a long day on the trail that is exposed to the sun. The last half mile to the arch is on a technical trail. Don't give up as despite the tree filled canyon the view is spectacular. You just have to find the sign for the arch. Don't underestimate this home as it's challenging."
Brett Tobler
"Honestly a bit underwhelmed by the Kolob Arch. The hike itself was fun - a fairly difficult stretch of trail with lots of climbing up and over rocks - but in conjunction with the Zion Traverse I'm not certain it was worth the extra mile. From the Lee Pass trailhead, the expansive views of the Kolob Canyons will be the major takeaway here, not the arch itself."
Sarah Hibit
"Kolob Arch — An Underrated Masterpiece Worth Every Step
I embarked on the long trek to Kolob Arch through Zion's Kolob Canyons, and every mile was a gift. Towering red cliffs, whispering creeks, and an almost silent path led me deeper into the wild—and eventually to the awe-inspiring arch itself. It’s one of the longest freestanding natural arches around, yet because you can’t walk right under it, the real reward is the journey: solitude, sweeping views, and the sense of discovery. We only saw a handful of other hikers all day. Whether you’re there for the scenic day hike or an overnight backpacking adventure, Kolob Arch is a hidden gem that defines what it means to explore. Bring water, a light pack, and an early start—then let nature take care of the rest. You’ll be proud you made this adventure happen."
J. Wilson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kolob Arch is located in the Kolob Canyons section of Zion National Park, accessible via I-15. Take Exit 40 and follow the signs for Kolob Canyons Road. The main trailhead for the hike to Kolob Arch is the Lee Pass Trailhead, which is about a 5-mile drive from the I-15 exit.
Yes, Kolob Canyons is a distinct, less-visited section of Zion National Park, known for its towering red cliffs and solitude. It's geographically separate from the main Zion Canyon.
You can drive the Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive, which offers stunning views. However, to reach Kolob Arch itself, you must hike. The drive provides access to trailheads.
Kolob Canyons is much quieter and less developed, offering a more remote hiking experience. The main Zion Canyon is more accessible with shuttle services and iconic landmarks like Angels Landing.
If you're driving I-15, the Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive is a quick and rewarding detour for incredible views without a long commitment.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Kolob Arch is within Zion National Park, so a valid Zion National Park entrance pass is required. You can purchase passes at the park entrance stations or online.
The Kolob Canyons section of Zion National Park requires the standard Zion National Park entrance fee. There are no separate fees for accessing the scenic drive or trailheads within this section.
The Kolob Canyons Visitor Center typically has limited hours, but the scenic drive and trailheads are generally accessible during daylight hours. Always check the official NPS website for the most current information.
Yes, overnight backpacking permits are required for camping along the La Verkin Creek Trail and other backcountry areas in Kolob Canyons. These are competitive and should be reserved in advance.
No, there is no shuttle service in the Kolob Canyons section. You will need your own vehicle to access the scenic drive and trailheads.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The most common route is the La Verkin Creek Trail, approximately 14 miles roundtrip with about 1,700 feet of elevation gain. It's a strenuous hike with varied terrain, including canyons and creek beds.
Most hikers complete the 14-mile roundtrip hike in 6-8 hours, depending on fitness level and time spent at the arch. Some opt for an overnight backpacking trip.
The hike is mostly unshaded, especially during the summer months. It's crucial to start early and carry plenty of water to avoid heat exhaustion.
No, you cannot walk directly under Kolob Arch. It is a freestanding arch on a cliffside, and the trail offers views from a distance. +1
Yes, besides the La Verkin Creek Trail to Kolob Arch, you can explore shorter trails like the Timber Creek Trail or the Double Arch Alcove hike for different perspectives of the canyons.
📸 📸 Photography
The Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive offers numerous pull-offs with stunning vistas of the red rock formations. The La Verkin Creek Trail also provides dramatic canyon views and unique perspectives of Kolob Arch itself.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for photographing Kolob Arch and the surrounding canyons. Midday sun can be harsh.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the canyons and the arch. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
Look for reflections in the creek beds after rain, the intricate patterns of the sandstone, and the contrast of the red rock against a blue sky. The solitude itself can make for compelling, uncrowded shots.
Drone usage is restricted in all National Parks, including Zion. Check the official NPS website for current regulations regarding drone operation before your visit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families seeking a bit more adventure, the Double Arch Alcove hike is a moderately challenging option that can be rewarding. Always prioritize safety by carrying plenty of water, sun protection, and snacks, and be mindful of the desert heat, especially during summer.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
Be sure to inform someone of your hiking plans, carry essential safety gear, and have a reliable navigation method. The Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive is also a great option for solo travelers who want to enjoy the views without a long hike.
🏞️ Nature & Scenery Enthusiasts
Don't overlook the scenic drive as it offers numerous viewpoints that capture the essence of this unique landscape. Photographers will find ample opportunities to capture the vibrant colors and textures of the sandstone, especially during the golden hours.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Kolob Arch Hike: A True Adventure
The elevation gain is significant, with much of it concentrated on the return trip, making the last few miles particularly demanding. It's essential to be prepared with plenty of water, snacks, and appropriate hiking gear. Many visitors recommend an early start to avoid the intense desert heat, especially during the summer months.
While the arch itself is a magnificent natural wonder, many reviewers emphasize that the true reward is the journey. The trail offers a unique perspective of Zion's geology and a peaceful escape that is hard to find elsewhere in the park.
Kolob Canyons: Zion's Quiet Side
+1This area is often described as a hidden gem or a best-kept secret within Zion. Its remoteness means fewer crowds, allowing for a more intimate and contemplative experience of the park's natural beauty. The towering red cliffs here are just as impressive as those in the main canyon, offering a unique visual spectacle.
For those who do venture here, the Kolob Canyons section provides access to some of Zion's more challenging backcountry trails, including the La Verkin Creek Trail leading to Kolob Arch. It's a perfect destination for hikers seeking solitude and a deeper connection with the wilderness, away from the more popular tourist hubs.
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