There Is Nothing Quite As Extraordinary As These 9 Natural Arches That You'll Find In Utah
By Courtnie Erickson|Published August 02, 2022
×
Courtnie Erickson
Author
From Southern Utah to the Panhandle in Idaho, Courtnie Erickson has lived in what she believes are the best (and the most beautiful!) areas in the country. She graduated with a journalism degree from Utah State University and has more than 15 years of professional writing experience. You’ll likely see her with a Dr. Pepper in her hand and a pair of running shoes on her feet. Courtnie is a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState.
Did you know that Utah is home to thousands of natural arches? It’s true! In just Arches National Park alone, there are more than 2,000 documented natural arches. But, not all of the arches found in the state are in this park. In fact, there are hundreds scattered all over Utah. Here are just a few of the extraordinary natural arches that you’ll find in Utah — some in Arches National Park and others elsewhere. How many of these arches have you seen in person?
Of course, when listing the best natural arches in Utah, Delicate Arch has to make the list. This is one of the most visited natural arches in Utah and for good reason — it’s stunning! But, to actually see this arch in person, you must be prepared for a challenging 3-mile hike. Delicate Arch stands approximately 60 feet tall and its opening is approximately 46 feet high.
Cassidy Arch is one natural arch in Utah that will take your breath away. This arch is located in Capitol Reef National Park and sits approximately 400 feet above the Scenic Drive. To view this arch, there is a 3.5-mile round-trip climb that is challenging in several areas. However, the views the entire way and the arch at the end are major payoffs for all of the effort that you'll put into your journey.
Advertisement
3. Elephant Arch, Red Cliffs National Conservation Area
Red Cliffs National Conservation Area, 345 E Riverside Dr, St. George, UT 84790, USA
Elephant Arch is a true hidden gem tucked away in the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area. While certainly not as large as some of the other arches you’ll find in the state, this small sandstone arch resembles a trunk and eye of an elephant. Can you see it?
Advertisement
4. Grosvenor Arch, Grand Staircase National Monument
Located in Grand Staircase National Monument is the stunning Grosvenor Arch. This is one of the largest natural arches in the area and even better, the trail to reach this arch is short and very easy. This arch is a bit unique as it is actually a double arch that stands more than 150 feet above the ground.
Corona Arch is one of our favorite natural arches in Utah. It is located just outside of Arches National Park but there is a 3-mile round-trip hike to view this incredible feature. You'll also want to come prepared for the trek as this trail does have challenging areas like steep inclines, slickrock, and ladders. But, the view is incredible as Corona Arch stands at an impressive 105 feet tall.
Kolob Arch, located in Zion National Park, is considered one of the longest arches in the entire world. At 287 feet long, this natural arch is quite impressive. You cannot get up close and touch this arch but there is a nice viewpoint where you can enjoy the beauty of Kolob Arch from a distance.
Landscape Arch is one of the world’s largest natural arches and it is found in — you guessed it — Arches National Park. This incredible arch is 306 feet long. It is one of the most remarkable natural features in Utah and quite fragile. In fact, over the years, it has changed quite significantly. If you wish to see this arch, you’ll have a 1.9-mile out-and-back trail to tackle.
If you want to view a natural arch but avoid the crowds found at Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, check out the Jewel Tibbetts Arch. This small arch is found along a 2-mile loop trail near Moab. The trail to reach this arch is easy and quite beautiful — it’s a delightful family adventure.
While Delicate Arch is one of the most visited natural arches in Utah, Mesa Arch is one of the most photographed. This arch is located right on the edge of a cliff, with Buck Canyon more than 1,200 feet below. During sunrise is when this arch really comes to life with the sun peering in the arch, making the entire natural feature come aglow.
What are some of your favorite natural arches in Utah? How many on this list have you seen in person? Let us know in the comments!
As you know, natural arches and national parks change over time. Check out these before and after photos of Arches National Park — it’s quite fascinating!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.