Corona Arch

Even in a region famed for arches, Corona Arch is special. The sandstone arch is one of the largest in Moab, with an opening that measures 140 feet (43 meters) across and 105 feet (32 meters) high. The hike to Corona Arch is considered moderate, with 250 feet (76 meters) of elevation gain over dirt paths and bare rock slabs. Along the way, you’ll pass two other rock formations: Pinto Arch and Bowtie Arch.

• Bring sun protection, including a wide-brimmed hat, as there is little shade on the Corona Arch Trail.

• Some sections of the trail have steep drop-offs; if you are hiking with small children, it’s a good idea to keep them close.

• If you prefer to avoid the trail’s most challenging sections, you can still get views of Corona Arch just after the first cable, located 0.7 miles (1.1 kilometers) from the trailhead.

• Dogs are allowed on the Corona Arch Trail.

You’ll need a car to reach the Corona Arch Trailhead, situated 14 miles (23 kilometers) from downtown Moab. Look for a sign on the eastern side of Utah State Route 279—also called Potash Road—just across from the Gold Bar Campground.

Because the Corona Arch Trail is exposed to all-day sun, temperatures can soar here during the warmer months. Morning hours are the coolest and therefore most comfortable for hiking; otherwise, plan to come in the late afternoon. Ideal hiking conditions coincide with prime light for photography: The best time to photograph Corona Arch is at sunrise or sunset.

Many of Moab’s best arches are concentrated within Arches National Park itself. Its most famous arch may be Delicate Arch, pictured on the Utah license plate. Also iconic are Double Arch, North Window, South Window, and Turret Arch. Landscape Arch is the longest arch in North America, slimming to just 6 feet (1.8 meters) in diameter at its narrowest point.