Mesa Arch in Canyonlands NP
- Isabelle
- Jun 4
- 3 min read
If you’ve ever looked into traveling around the Western United States, chances are you’ve seen a photo or two of Mesa Arch. Framing a jaw-dropping view of red rock cliffs, the La Sal Mountains on the horizon, and Buck Canyon sprawling far below, this is one of the most iconic and photographed spots in Canyonlands National Park. A photographer's dream location, especially at sunrise.
The best part? It’s an easy, short walk that rewards you with views worthy of a postcard.
How to Get to Mesa Arch
Mesa Arch is located in the Island in the Sky district of Canyonlands National Park in southeastern Utah. Canyonlands is made up of three distinct areas: Island in the Sky, The Needles, and The Maze. Mesa Arch is in the northern part of the park (i.e. Island in the Sky). This area can be easily combined with Arches National Park, so if you’re visiting one, it’s well worth seeing the other.
Moab makes a great home base for exploring Canyonlands NP, Arches NP, and Dead Horse Point State Park.
From Highway 191, signs to Canyonlands NP are clearly marked. The winding road from 191 to the Island in the Sky Visitor Center is absolutely breathtaking, with scenic overlooks and sweeping canyon views.
First Stop: The Visitor Center
Stop by the Island in the Sky Visitor Center to get your bearings. Friendly park rangers are on hand to answer questions, and there’s a small gift shop with maps, books, and souvenirs. This is also the only spot in the park where you can fill your water bottles, so don’t skip it!
After your stop, continue south on Island in the Sky Road. The district gets its name from the massive mesa you’re driving across, high above the canyons carved by the Colorado and Green Rivers.
Look for signs for Mesa Arch Trailhead on the left-hand side of the road.
Hiking the Mesa Arch Trail
Mesa Arch is located at the apex of a 0.6-mile (1 km) loop - short, scenic, and great for all ages. Because it’s such an easy hike, the parking lot fills up quickly. But visitors cycle through fast as it is only a 30-minute walk to do the loop, and with a little patience, you’ll find a spot.
There are restrooms near the trailhead, and the path is well-marked. If you hike counterclockwise, you’ll gain a bit more elevation early on, about 56 feet (17 meters) total either way.
Tip for families: While the hike is easy, the arch itself sits on the edge of a 1,200 ft (366 m) drop into Buck Canyon. There’s no guardrail, so please keep a close eye on kids.
On the trail, watch for desert plants, chipmunks, ground squirrels, and maybe a lizard or two. When you reach Mesa Arch, sit back on a warm rock and take in the incredible view, it’s a moment you won’t forget.
Things to Know Before You Go
Park entrance fee: $30 per vehicle
Location: Island in the Sky district is 32 miles (51 km) north of Moab
Water: Available only at the Island in the Sky Visitor Center
Trail conditions: Mixture of slickrock and sand; traction devices may be needed in winter
Not wheelchair accessible
Trail etiquette:
Stay on the trail
Do not climb or walk on Mesa Arch
Respect the land and follow Leave No Trace principles
For additional information on road and weather conditions in the national parks, check the National Park Service website. For trail info go to AllTrails.
Mesa Arch is one of those places where the effort-to-reward ratio is almost too good to be true. Whether you're visiting for a peaceful sunrise or a midday stroll, this easy hike offers a view that’s pure magic.
📸 Planning your next adventure? Check out my hiking blog for inspo and let’s hit the trail!
PS: I own the rights to all these pictures. If you want to download a copy, simply ask.
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