Corona Arch is a large sandstone arch west of Moab along Utah Scenic Byway 279, with a smaller companion called Bowtie Arch along the same trail. The trail is about three miles round trip with roughly 440 feet of gain, and the route crosses a railway line, follows a slickrock ledge with safety cables and climbs a few carved steps and a short ladder to reach the arch. It is rated moderate and takes at least two hours. Because it lies outside the national parks, there is no entrance fee, and it makes a rewarding alternative when Arches is crowded. The trailhead is about ten miles west of the junction of Utah 279 and US 191, roughly twenty minutes by car from town.
The reward is the scale. The arch is big enough that you can walk beneath it, and the open sky and red rock make it a favorite for photographers, especially in the soft light of morning or late afternoon. Take your time on the cabled sections, which are slightly exposed, and watch your footing on loose sand and slickrock. The route is hikers only, and leashed dogs are allowed.
Plan for conditions. In summer the rock gets very hot, so the Moab tourism board advises hiking early or in the evening. In November the opposite applies: mornings are cold, shaded parts of the route can hold ice, and daylight is short, so start with time to spare. Bring water, a hat and sunscreen, wear shoes with good grip and carry a layer for the wind.
The trailhead is on a busy scenic road along the Colorado River, so park carefully and watch for traffic. Cross the railway line only after looking both ways, and do not linger on the tracks. Pair Corona Arch with a drive on Highway 279, a stop at the rock art along the road and an afternoon in Moab, and use the trail page from Discover Moab for current details.
What to expect
The experience
A three-mile round-trip hike with a railway crossing, safety cables, carved steps and a short ladder to a large arch.
Best time
Morning or late afternoon for light and comfort. In November, start with plenty of daylight.
How long
At least two hours round trip.
Tips
Wear grippy shoes, bring water and a layer, take care on the cables and cross the railway line carefully.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Hikers who want a big arch without park crowds or fees.
- Families
- Capable older children can manage it; supervise on the cabled ledges and the ladder.
- Couples
- Go in the soft light of late afternoon and walk back in the glow.
- Pair with
- Arches National Park, a drive on Highway 279 and dinner in Moab.
- Time needed
- Half a day including the drive.
Good questions
How long is the Corona Arch hike?+
About three miles round trip with roughly 440 feet of elevation gain. Allow at least two hours.
Is it free?+
Yes, the trail lies outside the national parks and has no entrance fee.
Is the hike dangerous?+
It is moderate, with safety cables on exposed ledges, carved steps and a short ladder. Take care and avoid it when icy.
Can I bring a dog?+
Leashed dogs are allowed. The trail is hikers only, so no bikes.
Where is the trailhead?+
About ten miles west of the Utah 279 and US 191 junction on Utah Scenic Byway 279, about twenty minutes from Moab.
