Skylight Arch
An inverted arch framing Lake Powell, offering thrilling views and a unique desert adventure. Requires a 4WD for access.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Skylight Arch
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An inverted arch framing Lake Powell, offering thrilling views and a unique desert adventure. Requires a 4WD for access.
"The arch is out of this world, especially when you stand on top of it and there is 300 feet of air just below!"
🚗 High Clearance Vehicle Needed
A 4WD with high clearance is best for the rough dirt road.
🌅 Sunrise is Worth It
Waking up early for sunrise offers stunning views and solitude.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Skylight Arch
The main attraction
An inverted arch framing Lake Powell and Navajo Mountain. Stand on top for a thrilling perspective!
Lake Powell Overlook
Along the trail
Breathtaking panoramic views of the vast, blue expanse of Lake Powell.
+1
Petroglyphs
Near the end of the trail
Discover ancient rock carvings adding a historical layer to your hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer the Rough Road
+2Timing is Everything
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 High Clearance Vehicle Needed
A 4WD with high clearance is best for the rough dirt road. +1
🌅 Sunrise is Worth It
Waking up early for sunrise offers stunning views and solitude.
🗺️ Use AllTrails App
Helps navigate the rough road and find the arch easily.
👟 Sturdy Shoes Recommended
The trail involves some up and down hiking on rocky terrain.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 High Clearance Vehicle Needed
A 4WD with high clearance is best for the rough dirt road. +1
🌅 Sunrise is Worth It
Waking up early for sunrise offers stunning views and solitude.
🗺️ Use AllTrails App
Helps navigate the rough road and find the arch easily.
👟 Sturdy Shoes Recommended
The trail involves some up and down hiking on rocky terrain.
💧 Bring Water
No facilities at the trailhead, so pack plenty of water.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the unique inverted arch and the stunning views of Lake Powell, often describing the experience as a hidden gem. The challenging drive is a common talking point, with many recommending a high-clearance vehicle. While the hike is short, the payoff is immense, though caution is advised due to the sheer drop-offs.
"I loved this hike. It’s not very long, but a lot of up and down hiking. Pretty scenery and a fun end spot with petroglyphs."
Susan Brown
"Rough dirt road to get to trailhead. Allow 30 min off main road to arrive. No restrooms. Easy walk from parking lot. We took a right at the end. Could see arch in rock across the way. Decided to pull up All Trails and followed to arch. Was a huge hole in the ground. Walked around the hole and at certain point .... WE could see the arch.
It took some time, but we finally found it. We'll worth our time. We had the entire top of the mountain to ourselves."
Bea Trev
"A fantastic hike that is easy. The most difficult is the offroad to it for about 6 miles. Incredible views. The arch is out of this world, especially when you stand on top of it and there is 300 feet/100 meter of air just below, scary. Also around the edges the stone floor is max 1 meter thick with big air holes under them dont be scared, but it is fun! Just be careful, especially with kids"
René Van Wijk
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The drive to Skylight Arch involves a rough, sandy, and rocky dirt road for about 6 miles. A high-clearance 4WD vehicle is highly recommended. If you don't have one, you'll need to park further away and add an extra mile or more to your hike each way. +2
No, the road is unpaved and can be challenging. It's a dirt road with sandy and rocky sections that requires careful navigation.
It's not recommended. While some visitors with vehicles like a Jeep Compass managed without 4WD, there's a section with flat rocks on a small hill that requires higher clearance. It's safer to have a high-clearance vehicle. +1
Allow about 30 minutes to drive the 6 miles off the main road to the trailhead, depending on your vehicle and road conditions.
Yes, there is a parking area at the trailhead. However, if you don't have a high-clearance vehicle, you may need to park further down the road.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to visit Skylight Arch. It's a natural attraction accessible to the public.
There are no official fees for accessing Skylight Arch itself. However, be mindful of potential costs if you need to rent a high-clearance vehicle.
Skylight Arch is accessible at any time, as it's an outdoor natural landmark. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
While there aren't official tours specifically for Skylight Arch, many tour operators in the Page, Arizona area offer excursions that might include this destination or similar off-road adventures.
Yes, there is a marker indicating that vehicles are not allowed beyond a certain point, requiring you to continue on foot.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike to Skylight Arch is approximately 2 miles round-trip, taking about an hour to complete. +1
The hike has minimal elevation gain, around 203 feet, making it relatively easy in terms of exertion.
Yes, the hike is generally considered family-friendly due to its short length and minimal elevation gain. However, the rough road to the trailhead and the sheer drop-offs at the arch require extra caution with children.
You'll be treated to stunning views of Lake Powell, Lone Rock, Navajo Mountain, and the surrounding Vermillion Cliffs. The arch itself offers a unique perspective looking down into the canyon.
No, there are no restrooms available at the Skylight Arch trailhead or along the trail.
While many visitors do stand on top for the view, it's important to be extremely careful. The edges can be thin, and there are significant drop-offs. Exercise caution, especially with children.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photographing Skylight Arch. The golden hour light beautifully illuminates the arch and the surrounding landscape.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the arch and the expansive views of Lake Powell. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions during sunrise or sunset.
The most iconic shots are taken from the edge of the arch, framing Lake Powell in the background. Experiment with different angles to capture the unique inverted shape.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check current FAA guidelines and any local restrictions before flying a drone in this area.
Its unique inverted arch formation, combined with the stunning backdrop of Lake Powell and the desert landscape, makes it a visually striking subject for photographers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Crucially, the arch itself has steep drop-offs, and the rock can be thin in places. Parents must maintain constant supervision and keep children away from the edges. The thrill of standing near the arch can be immense, but safety must be the top priority. Visiting during daylight hours and bringing plenty of water are essential.
🚗 Off-Road Enthusiasts
+2The road itself is part of the experience, leading you through rugged desert terrain. The satisfaction of reaching the trailhead with your capable vehicle adds to the overall sense of accomplishment. Be prepared for sandy patches and rocky inclines, and enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
🌅 Sunrise & Sunset Chasers
Sunset also provides stunning photographic opportunities with warm, golden light. The dramatic shadows and colors create a beautiful scene. Arriving a bit before sunset allows you to explore the area and find your ideal vantage point. Remember to bring a headlamp for the drive back if you stay after dark.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Adventurous Drive to Skylight Arch
If your vehicle isn't equipped for off-roading, don't let it deter you entirely. You can park further down the road and add an extra mile or more to your hike each way. This extended walk still offers beautiful desert scenery and the anticipation of reaching the arch. Planning your drive and understanding your vehicle's capabilities are key to a smooth and enjoyable approach.
Remember that there are no facilities like restrooms along this route, so come prepared with everything you need, including plenty of water. The effort to reach the trailhead is rewarded by the unique beauty and relative solitude of Skylight Arch.
Experiencing the Thrill of Skylight Arch
Many visitors describe the feeling of standing on top of the arch as exhilarating, with hundreds of feet of air beneath them. It's important to note that the stone floor can be quite thin in places, with large air holes underneath. While this adds to the excitement, it also necessitates caution, especially for those with a fear of heights or when visiting with children.
The hike to the arch is relatively short, about 2 miles round-trip, and involves some up and down terrain. Along the way, you might also discover ancient petroglyphs, adding a layer of historical intrigue to your visit. The combination of the unique geological formation, the expansive views, and the potential for solitude makes Skylight Arch a memorable destination.
Capturing the Magic: Photography at Skylight Arch
A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the grandeur of the arch and the sweeping vistas of Lake Powell and the surrounding desert. Consider bringing a tripod to stabilize your shots, particularly in the low light conditions of early morning or late evening. Experimenting with different angles will help you showcase the unique inverted shape of the arch and its dramatic setting.
+1Beyond the arch itself, the panoramic views of Lake Powell provide a stunning backdrop. Don't forget to look for the ancient petroglyphs near the end of the trail, which can add an interesting historical element to your photographs. Remember to always be mindful of your surroundings and the sheer drop-offs when composing your shots.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit