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Delicate Arch is the most famous landmark in Arches National Park and an icon of Utah, even appearing on the state’s license plates. If you’re visiting Moab, Utah, this stunning natural formation is a must-see—whether you hike to it or view it from a scenic overlook.

This guide will cover everything you need to know about hiking Delicate Arch, the best viewpoints when to visit, and essential tips to make the most of your adventure.

The Delicate Arch

First, let me tell you about the Delicate Arch, one of the most iconic natural landmarks in the United States. The arch has become a symbol of the state of Utah and is even on their license plates. It is located in Arches National Park near Moab, Utah.

Delicate Arch is a 52-foot-tall natural sandstone arch and one of the most photographed geological formations in the U.S..

Why It’s Famous:

• Largest free-standing arch in Arches National Park
• Unmatched views of the La Sal Mountains
• A bucket-list sunset hike for adventurers

Stay nearby to make your sunset hike easier to get to! Here are 5 Amazing Hotels Near Arches National Park

How to Hike to Delicate Arch

You can visit the arch on a hike or view it from afar at one of the viewpoints. Here are both options.

Delicate Arch Hike

Distance: 3.2 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 480 feet
Difficulty: Moderate (steep slickrock & no shade)
Time to Complete: 2–3 hours

This wonderful hiking trail is 3.2 miles long and will take you along the red rock slabs to the largest free-standing arch in the park.

You will start your hike from the Delicate Arch trailhead parking area. From there, you will cross a small bridge that brings you over salt wash.

From here, you gradually climb over sandstone rocks. During your hike to the top, you’ll pass smaller stone arches, piles of balanced rocks, and tall sandstone fins.

The final part of the hike is on exposed, open, slick rock, and can be dangerous without the proper footwear.

This area was a little scary, but there was nothing to worry about. It can be crowded here, so go slow and enjoy the views.

Views From The Summit

Once you reach the top, you can lounge out on the rocks and even go down to take a picture under the Arch. It gets very crowded here, and everyone waits for a picture.

Here is my view during sunset on the walk back down from the arch.

After we made it back down we showered and made our way to Desert Bistro: The Best Restaurant In Moab!

Pro Tip: Wear sturdy hiking shoes—the slick rock can be slippery, especially after rain.

Delicate Arch Viewpoint Trails

If you don’t want to hike but still want to see Delicate Arch, you have two easier options:

Lower Delicate Arch Viewpoint

The Lower Delicate Arch Viewpoint is a short, flat trail and is the easiest way to see the most famous arch in the park. It is 200 feet long and takes 5-15 min to view.

Distance: 200 feet (flat trail)
Time: 5–15 minutes
Best for: A quick view of the arch from a distance

Upper Delicate Arch Viewpoint

The Upper Delicate Arch Viewpoint is a 0.5-mile hike that takes about 30 minutes. A moderately strenuous trail climbs to the upper viewpoint of Delicate Arch, which sits across a canyon one mile away.

Distance: 0.5 miles round trip
Time: 30 minutes
Best for: A moderate hike with a closer view across a canyon

Pro Tip: These viewpoints are great for families or travelers who can’t do the full hike.

Best Time To Visit The Delicate Arch

The best time of year to visit The Delicate Arch is in Spring or Fall when the temperatures are cooler.

Time of Day:

• Sunset is the best time – the arch glows orange & red for stunning photos
• Early morning offers cooler temps & fewer crowds

I recommend stargazing after your hike! I saw the Milky Way during my visit. Here are The Best Spots For Stargazing at Arches National Park!

Best Seasons to Visit:

• Spring (March-May) – Pleasant weather, wildflowers blooming
• Fall (September–November) – Cool temps, fewer crowds

Avoid Summer Afternoons! Temperatures exceed 100°F, and there’s no shade on the trail.

Entry Fees & America the Beautiful Pass

You do have to pay the Arches National Park Fee to visit.

Entry Fee: $30 per vehicle (good for 7 days)
Annual Pass: $80 (America the Beautiful Pass covers all U.S. National Parks!)

I recommend purchasing the America The Beautiful Pass, which allows you access to all US National Parks for an entire year.

Are There Any Guided Tours Available?

Yes, if you are unfamiliar with hiking and want to do it with a guide, you can! I recommend Moab Adventure Center.

They offer sunset hikes, a morning adventure, and even an airplane tour.

Where to Park for Delicate Arch

The parking area is easy to find, and you can take the main parking road to Delicate Arch Road.

Explore More of Arches National Park

If you’re visiting Arches National Park, hiking Delicate Arch is a bucket-list experience.

There is so much more to do when visiting Arches National Park!

After hiking all day, book a reservation at Desert Bistro: The Best Restaurant In Moab

I recommend stargazing in this Intentional Dark Sky Park. Here are The Best Spots For Stargazing at Arches National Park.

Looking for a place to stay? Here are 5 Amazing Hotels Near Arches National Park.

You can also check out my Stargazing In Great Basin National Park in Nevada guide!

Have you hiked Delicate Arch? Drop a comment below & share your experience!