The arch itself spans an impressive 140 feet tall by 105 feet wide, rising from the slickrock like a massive red gateway to the sky.
Corona Arch is one of the most iconic and rewarding hikes in the Moab area. Located just west of town, this 3-mile round-trip trail treats hikers to dramatic views of the red rock desert and leads to one of Utah’s most photogenic sandstone formations.
Along the way, hikers pass two smaller formations—Pinto Arch and Bowtie Arch—adding visual variety to the route. The trail includes a brief climb up a rocky talus slope and sections of slickrock, but is generally rated as easy to moderate, suitable for most ability levels.
Photography
Corona Arch is a dream location for photographers. The arch glows brilliantly during sunrise and sunset, with golden hour light accentuating the natural curves and color of the sandstone. For summer hikes, sunset is ideal, as temperatures begin to cool. If staying for photos at dusk, a headlamp is essential for the hike back—and makes for great long-exposure subjects in blue hour shots.
Access
Trailhead location: Just off Utah State Route 279 (Potash Road), about 15 minutes from Moab.
Coordinates: 38.574444° N, 109.632361° W
Trail length: 3 miles round trip
Elevation gain: ~440 feet
No entrance fee required, but trailhead parking can fill quickly during peak season.
Pet Friendly
Dogs are welcome on the Corona Arch Trail but should be leashed and accustomed to walking on slickrock and around steep drop-offs. The rock surface can become dangerously hot in summer—bring plenty of water and protect your pet’s paws.
Camping
There are no campgrounds directly at the trailhead, but dispersed BLM camping is available along Potash Road, and numerous campgrounds and RV parks are located in nearby Moab. Many BLM sites offer scenic, primitive camping with minimal amenities—ideal for those looking for a quieter, more natural experience.
Tips for Visiting
Avoid midday heat during summer—temperatures can exceed 100°F and reflect off the slickrock.
Start early or late in the day to avoid crowds and harsh sun.
Bring: water, sun protection, grippy footwear, and a headlamp if hiking near dusk.
