Arches Landscape Arch

The hike to Landscape Arch is akin to the trip to Delicate Arch. It’s one of those must-see features of Arches National Park. This is an easy trail to hike on—flat and double-wide all the way (and usually heavily populated with hikers, so get an early start to avoid crowds).

Landscape Arch has an opening spanning an incredible 306 feet, which may make it the longest stone span in the world. On the geologic time scale, Landscape Arch is a senior citizen among arches in the park. It’s also famous for the extreme slenderness of its stone span. And don’t wait too long to see it. Geologically speaking, it’s likely to collapse any day.

About a quarter mile from the trailhead, a short spur trail goes to the right. For Landscape Arch, keep left. (Option: The spur trails take you down to Pine Tree and Tunnel Arches, both well worth adding 0.4 mile to your hike. If you take this spur trail, it splits again at the bottom of a small hill. Go left to Pine Tree Arch and right to Tunnel Arch. After checking out these two large arches, head back to the main trail and on to Landscape Arch.)

Just before you see Landscape Arch and as you descend a series of steps, you come to the junction with the Primitive Loop Trail. Stay left here, and continue for about another quarter mile for your chance to marvel at the incredible Landscape Arch.