Delicate Arch Reviews

There are 2 ways to see delicate arch. Take the 3 mile round trip hike where you can walk right up to it, or go to the viewing area to enjoy a view from a distance. It all depends on your time and willingness to hike.

There is a strenuous hike that will get you to the arch, there are also upper and lower viewing points; neither of the viewing point give access to the arch.
This is a popular spot and there were lots of folks here when we stopped. We were not up for the long hike, so opted for the lower view.

We did not do the long hike - just viewed from viewing point - we thought the hike would be too hard . No my fave thing

This arch is the centerpiece to the Utah travel destinations. We have seen it depicted numerous times on TV and photographs. So much in fact that we made it a Bucket List item for ourselves and made our way from the Midwest to see this stone structure.

The hike to stand at its base was a little over 3 miles round trip. That does not sound like a long distance but there is a steady climb up a fairly steep sandstone incline. But the views are worth every step. This was one of our favorite hikes of our lifetime. Once you get there have your cameras ready because you will want to document this moment for your lifetime. We sure did.

If you can handle the hike do it for sure. If not you can still observe this arch from afar at the viewing observation area which requires a less strenuous hike. This is the #1 destination in Arches National Park (maybe even Utah itself).

Delicate Arch is the top attraction in Arches National Park! What a great hike! We arrived a little after 9 am on a Tuesday, and we were lucky to get a parking space! There are restrooms available at the beginning of the trailhead. Bring water! Climbing up the rock surfaces looked a little daunting, but were not difficult to ascend or descend, except almost everything is uphill on the way to the arch. There are a few narrow passages towards the top, but what a reward is waiting at the top! Amazing! I wish I would have been brave enough to go stand under the arch! Next visit!

Iconic Arch, this is a must do. We did it in low 90s weather. I suggest hiking boots, hats and sunscreen. We saw plenty of people making the hike in sneakers. It's strenuous in the sense it's uphill and over broken ground. The first half mile is a path, after that's it's over slickrock (not really slick, it has great traction). It is not technical, but it is uphill and over some loose rock and uneven surfaces (it's called nature).

If you are completely out of shape, don't do it. If you are reasonably able, can sustain an elevated heartrate for an hour or so on the uphill uneven surfaces hike, then go for it and you will be rewarded.

Our first hike in Utah introduced us to everything we would find throughout the Four Corners area parks: sandy washes, steep climbs and descents, and narrow ledges . . . all leading through and to the most fabulous landmarks, panoramic views, and scads of photographers. Wear your stickiest-soled hiking boots and hold onto your hat.

Delicate arch is gorgeous! Be prepared to wait in a line to get your picture in front of this arch, well worth it! Very, very windy here!

Took the 1.76 (one-way)mile trek to the Delicate Arch. We are an older couple and it was a little strenuous, especially the slick rock portion. I am a photographer and thought it was worth the trip up. Sunset was great, a little crowded around the rim. Traveling back was twice as fast. Gets very dark after sunset so bring your phone for a flashlight.

In touring the Big 5 in Utah, Arches may be our favorite. We saw some fantastic rock formations. You need to go early to avoid the crowds if that is possible in this very popular tourist destination. Be prepared to hike to see many of the wonders that are in Arches National Park to view.

The hike to delicate arch offers plenty of beautiful views to soak in, so take your time going up and back down. The arch itself is a great and popular photo site, and on an average day there will be plenty of folks up there. While at the top, some of the best views around the park can be seen. Truly enjoyed the hike to the top and taking it all in.

We hiked the trail to Delicate Arch. It is steep and strenuous, especially taking into account the altitude. The reward at the end of the hike is so worth it. You can stop and sit and rest on the rocks at the arch. It will help you get ready for the return hike, which is mostly downhill the whole way. There is a side trail to some petroglyphs that is worth a look. This is a don’t miss hike. It was a highlight of our trip.

I've hiked the Delicate Arch trail 4 times. 3 times in my 20s and once in my 40s, with children in tow and a spouse with a legitimate fear of heights. This is a short, but strenuous hike in the summer--I'd say moderate in cooler weather. The bulk of the trail getting to the arch is rising in elevation along exposed slick rock. Bring more water than you think you need.

For those of you afraid of heights, here's some info about the end of the trail. There is a stone ledge that measures about 3 feet wide (maybe a bit wider) that hugs the outer edge of the bowl on which the arch sits. To the left of the ledge is a fairly steep, sloped drop-off of maybe 60 feet (though it is not a vertical cliff). My spouse is terrified of heights and hugged the wall the whole way up (and the way back), but once he realized that the drop-off is not a vertical cliff, he was able to complete the hike.

Once you get to the viewing area, it's important to be aware of your surroundings. There are a lot of people up there, many behaving irresponsibly, and the entire area up there is slick rock. Immediately behind the arch is a steep drop off, so be mindful of that if you choose to walk under the arch. To the right of the arch is a sandstone bowl that would not be hard to slip or fall into. The bottom of the bowl looks to be 40-50 feet below. The edge of the bowl is angled, so if you have shoes with poor tread or aren't sure-footed, it's probably best to stay back from the edge of the bowl. All of that said, this is an unmissable hike with a huge payoff. There is plenty of space at the end of the trail to sit on wide, flat rocks to rest and admire the view. My two kids (ages 10 and 12) loved this hike and had no trouble completing it (though we did take frequent water breaks on the way up). It took us about 2 hours up and back.

We opted to hike on the trail that took us to a view point of the Delicate Arch as it was the shorter and less strenuous; however, the arch was so small to view and take pictures of.

With the effort that we exerted on a hot late afternoon, this arch was not worth it.

3 mile round roundtrip hike that is difficult due to the steep terrain so make sure to bring lots of water. But it is so worth it with the view and seeing delicate arch! It also gets very busy so recommend so really early. We got there around 9am and were able to get a spot further away.

Simple walk of about 45 minutes walk from the parking lot to reach this arch (I recommend sneakers).
This is a very well-known area and therefore expect a lot of people; to be able to take a photograph yourself under the arch calculate that there is a line!
I recommend visiting this place at sunset.
Nice place, but in my opinion, maybe because there are too many people, I would go further and see other locations even more 'impactful and less known

Delicate arch is beautiful and you shouldn’t miss it. It’s a pretty easy hike with a bit of elevation gain and the setting is amazing. Expect a crowd and don’t be the annoying girl playing pop country music through her speaker equipped fanny pack for all to hear that we followed up and everyone will have a good time. Do take time to check out the homestead located at the trailhead.

This is the most iconic image of Utah and well worth the hike. It is not an easy hike, however. It is not long, but the way there is an ascent and with full exposure to the sun. It never ceases to amaze how many people hike at national parks fully unprepared for their trek: no water, flip flops, toddler they end up carrying, folks clearly out of shape. Drive to the viewpoint instead! You can survive this one, but why not take 15 minutes to know what you are getting into? This hike finishes at the arch and it rises like a phoenix as you make the final distance and turn the corner. The arch itself is fully accessible and a great photo opportunity not to be missed.

This is must-visit for all in Arches National Park. It is all worthy of your effort.
If you are with kids, try to visit Upper Delicate Arch viewpoint. The view from here is also very good.
Be ready with lots of water. Also your attire should be good for hiking.

The landscape of this park is amazing. This trail is somewhat challenging, so bring water and go earlier in the day if you can, to avoid the heat (and get a parking space -- the lot fills quickly!!). There are parts on an incline, and this is not a trail if you've got balance problems.

The payoff at the end though -- whoa! The Delicate Arch is absolutely stunning. What an experience!

This is must-do hike in Arches National Park. The trail is rated as difficult but anyone in half-decent shape can do it. The first part is steep but then it evens out and is a lovely walk. Very dramatic when you round the final corner and come upon the arch. Stunning.

This is a must do. The hike to the arch is steep, but it's worth it when you get to the top! We relaxed and took in the views.

I have always been a fan of the National Parks and Arches and the Delicate Arch did not Dissappoint. We went in the begining of October so the heat wasn't intense as it would have been in July. I found the hike to be manageable. Isn't a walk around the block and your heart will get a nice workout on the way to the Arch. The views were amazing and you could spend as much as time as you would like there. There is no water so I would bring at least a liter may two liters in the summer. I will be back!

Started this hike at 7am because of the desert heat and it is ALL uphill so bring LOTS of water. There is lots of parking at this trail head and you can't miss it as you will see Wolfe's Ranch. You really need to start this hike early in the morning or later in the evening because even though it is all up hill, it is one of the most popular hikes in the park and there can be a line up to take pictures at the arch. The tourist attraction behind it kinda ruins it a bit BUT I still recommend doing this hike as the views really are surreal. There really isn't any shade on this hike except for a few spots once you're up near the arch. The hike down is much easier and won't take as long.

My favorite arch in the entire park. I did the Devil’s Garden trail last time and saw the arches there. This one was easier difficulty wise. A couple of areas though that would be scary for those scared of heights. Got there around 9am on a Thursday and lot was 40% full. All lots were completely full by the time we finished. This is a hike I would do more than once. 3.2 miles round trip. Walk the extra .1 miles off on the side to see the petroglyphs!

Probably the number one 'must-do' in Arches NP. Delicate Arch is a spectacle to behold and something everyone should see at least once. Bring plenty of water if you go in the summer.

Beautiful and well worth the trip. Nice hike but very hot in the summer. Spring and fall are the best times to go, but even in the spring cars are backed up onto highway 191. Go early in the day - not so crowded and weather is cool and comfortable.

We hiked this trail to watch sunrise during the Memorial Day weekend of 2019. We reached trailhead well in time for sunrise at 6AM. We had flashlights and still managed to get lost in darkness. While descending we figured it was right after the section of a steep climb on a sandstone rock. Stupid, I know. But fortunately we found a trail marker and reached the arch well in time. Moral of story, be alert of path and reach well in time if you want to see sunrise.
It's a 3mi RT hike with ~480ft gain. NPS rates this as strenuous because it has no shade and the rocks can get hot during summer. Have plenty of water per person. Parking can be an issue as its extremely popular. During the entire hike you don't get any glimpse of the arch and it suddenly opens up at end. I had spontaneously said "SUPER" upon reaching. Be aware of your fitness, carry plenty of water and this hike will surely be one of the best ever.

Not a bad hike. Good for all ages, all abilities. Just take your time and bring water. You'll be in the sun the whole time, sweating.

I'm 73 and did the hike up to see Delicate Arch in about 50 minutes, it is a bit strenuous, bring water. It's well worth the effort; the arch is beautiful and you can walk right up close to it and pose for some pictures. Sunscreen and / or a parasol would also be helpful and ladies' high heels or flip flops are not recommended.

An absolute must when visiting Arches National Park! It’s a trek but worth every hill when you see that glorious arch!

This was a relatively easy hike this time of year but could be strenuous in hotter months. Great views, sort of busy but not too bad!

We were last at Arches NP 10 years ago and this walk was our highlight of the visit. We were very keen to repeat the experience and it is definitely worth the effort because delicate arch doesn’t come into view until the last moment so the impact is a wow moment. Families, baby carriers and older people can all make this walk if walkers take their own pace and have frequent stops. Take plenty of water as there is no shade but take time at the top to appreciate the views!

Went there in the middle of the day and end of august. It was really hot hike.
But everything is worth it... because when you finally arrive to arch then you can see the beauty of the nature. Just awsome...
Take a plenty of water with you and wear a hat and it is easy to get there (follow the people or follow the signs).

Me and my husband are in our late 50’s and not avid hikers but in decent shape. We were told by multiple people that we MUST hike up to Delicate Arch. I was a bit nervous since it is classified as a difficult hike but we decided to go for it and so glad we did. The hike is pretty steep in a few places but on solid ground so I felt safe. The views are spectacular. I would highly recommend going early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the heat. Be sure to bring a hat and water. We arrived at the parking area at the base at 6:30 a.m. It was still dark so we waited about 15 minutes until there was enough light to see and started up. There were several people ahead of us that had already started up wearing headlamps and in restrospect I wish we had done the same since it took us about 45 minutes to make it to the top. We stayed on top for about an hour and started back down and it was amazing how many people were hiking up (it was MUCH more crowded). We enjoyed the hike back down since it was lighter and we could see some things we missed on the way up, including 4 mule deer! We stayed another couple of hours within the park and then left to find the gates were closed because the park was full. Therefore, be sure to arrive early, preferably before 9 am.

This is a pretty straightforward hike. Easy enough for the whole family. It gets a little crowded at the arch so it's hard to get a picture without strangers in it but all in all it's a great hike

Hiked to the Delicate Arch after our trek through the Fiery Furnace. The trip to the arch is pretty straightforward, but the path becomes ever higher. It’s narrow just before the arch. Once you are there, the view is well worth the effort. Amazing scenery.

Arches National Park is not just great, it surpasses amazing and it is just spectacular. It offers the experiences you’re seeking and more. It’s a journey into another world where towering cliffs and fantastic formations dominate the desert landscape.

This is a significant hike of about 3 miles (uphill both ways - or so it seems, lol). For a lowlander like myself, the high altitude wasn't my friend, but I did enjoy the rigorous hike and varied terrain. It's good exercise! You have to pay attention to your footing, especially at the top - but there's a reason this is a famous arch. It's simply amazing.

Go early i the morning before it warms up and traffic gets heavy. Good pair of shoes or sneakers. YOU NEED WATER!

The foster picture of Arches National Park and the state of Utah never disappoints anybody. It is equally beautiful as in the magazine photos as well as personally when you are there to experience its magnificence. I fulfilled my childhood bucket list, I am happy!

We wanted no crowds. Great photography. Do not attempt a night hike if you do not know the trail. A wrong turn and you might be in trouble. Worth the hike in the dark. Awesome place.

Beautiful walk with some steep inclines but very manageable. We went early in the morning while it was cooler temperatures and less crowded. Lots of photo ops on the way.

One of the best natural wonders in the U.S. The hike is mostly uphill to the arch, but well worth it for the views. The path is rocky and sandy and has a ledge for parts of the hike.

If you can hike, skip the two viewpoints. The first is full of sedentary people. The second is a harder hike that doesn't bring you very near to the arch. If you can hike, take the trail to the arch itself. It is a really good hike. I am a fit 60 year old man, who doesn't hike all that often. This trail is very doable if you are in decent shape. I even saw some people who looked completely out of shape at the top, so I guess if you take your time, anyone can do it. The part where they say the trail is on a narrow ledge, is not really that narrow. You could easily fit 3 people across. The bad part is the stupid people taking all their selfies at the arch in all sorts of ridiculous poses. Come on people, take one photo and then let the others do their thing.

The hike was moderately challenging but well worth the effort. The hardest part is going up a giant rock hill. And once you pass that, there is a narrow cliff ledge you have to walk on. But the cliff is slanted in towards the cliff wall so not too scary. Definitely a great hike and a rewarding view.

Definitely worth the hike to see this arch. It's pretty unique in how it is pretty much a stand alone arch.

This is a beautiful arch that is being loved to death, like everything else in Arches Natural Park. If you want to be able to take a picture without dozens of people, start your hike before sunrise. It's a gorgeous time to walk & you'll be thanking yourself on the way down when the masses of human lemmings are marching to the arch.

It is worth it.

This is worth the tremendous hike. When we finally got there, we were so amazed by the scenery. This arch would be a very memorable one, and my favorite in Arches National Park.

I absolutely loved this hike and the delicate arch. It was moderately challenging, but, so so worth it!! Only 1.5 miles and yes, you hike up slick rock, but of dry, it’s really not slippery and just so cool to hike up the rock face. I’m afraid of heights and was not afraid on this hike. There is one area you hike along a cliff area but it was wide enough and was ok! And, the end, you round a corner and see this most amazing thing!! We went on a Wednesday afternoon in early October. It was hot, so take a lot of water and sunscreen. But, we were able to walk under the arch without a big line of people and I suspect it was busy this October because of the pandemic. But, if you wonder if you should do this, the answer is yes

My wife and I arrived to the trailhead around 2pm. There were a fair amount of cars in the lot. There was a restroom available. We have done this hike once before, in the summer. The AllTrails app has the out and back hike at 3.2 miles. I can tell you that hike for us in summer felt like 10 miles. Yikes! But that was not near the case this time around. We hike with trekking poles, and we had traction devices with us too. Thank goodness for us we had them with us. The hike was great until you got to the base of the hike that goes around back of the rock that then finally opens up to the amazing Delicate Arch view. The trail behind the rock was in the shade, and was snow and ice covered. It is kind of a skinny trail for a bit. Thankfully there were not many people coming and going, try to pass by each other. I’m telling you at points that part of the trail was sketchy as F***! We took it slow and steady. We ran into a guy coming down who said his feet went out from underneath him, and he landed flat on his back. Thankfully not sliding down a cliff. The arch viewing was pretty much to ourselves. Just a couple people hanging out. No lines to take pictures, etc, etc. it was beautiful. Even with the sketchy parts getting to the arch, this was a great hike.

The Delicate Arch is a popular destination for a reason...it is stunningly beautiful. If you are not a hiker, this trail will likely be moderate to strenuous for you. If you are a regular hiker (with some uphill), you will likely find this trail to be fairly easy. We went in May and there was a steady stream of people going to and from on the trail and somewhere between 60-70 people at the arch itself. Go prepared to share the trail and arch and you will enjoy the experience.

Very scenic arch. Definitely worth seeing. You can enjoy from afar or hike closer to enjoy the views.

We were here with a tour and so just viewed the arch from the lower viewing area. With a zoom on our phone you can get a decent picture.

We hiked the Delicate Arch Trail early in the morning, starting out at about 7:10 am on September 10. This was an ideal time, as there was plenty of light and temps were still cool. I found it to be a strenuous hike, but hiking isn’t something I do on a regular basis, either. A good portion of the hike is a climb up slickrock, and there are a few places where you have to watch your footing. The last part of the hike is along a narrow ledge, but if you stick close to the wall, you’ll be fine. (And there is room for a couple of people to pass if necessary.) You don’t see the Arch until you reach the top, and it is a sight to behold! You can continue right up to the Arch, and many people do, but I chose not to go that far. We spent 10 or 15 minutes there, then headed back down. Our round trip took a couple of hours, and it was already getting hot by the time we finished.

Tips: Take plenty of water and wear good shoes, a hat, and sunscreen. Hike at whatever rate is comfortable for you, and take breaks as needed. We saw all climbers at levels of fitness, including parents with babies and small children in backpacks.

This trail is considered strenuous and is. However, we hiked this trail round trip from 8 AM to 11:30 AM, which made for cooler temperature, less people (about 40) and softer light, for photographs when we reached the top. The arch is incredible and hard to believe that it is still standing with such a weak looking left side! It's enormous! View is spectacular and people were very cooperative, taking turns with pictures under the arch.As we came back down the trail, many, many more people were making their way up. Go early to avoid the crowds, don't forget water and take your time!

We started at 3.00 pm and were back by 5.30 pm. You don’t see the Arch till the last moment. There are trail markers. The sunset was a bummer because of clouds just above the horizon. Also the sun does not set anywhere behind the Arch. Its to the right.
The last 100 steps are actually a rock pavement cut from the hill side. This is very icy and slippery and has steep edge on one side. The few steps just before u can go underneath Delicate Arch are also icy.
We did below things to keep safe
- Walk on snow not ice...the ice is towards the wall and snow is towards the edge.
- Use snow traction cleats whenever you hit ice and not sure of your footing.
- Dont use the traction device on rock.

So we had to wear and remove the traction device twice....but is worth just to keep safe.

Overall it is an extremely beautiful place.

We visited mid-august when the heat was 105 degrees every day. We viewed the arch from the viewing areas and we hiked the trail to the arch. The viewing areas are not very good. You are really far away. We hike the trail in the AM and even in the middle of summer it was still pleasant (not too hot), BUT the afternoons would HOT! Really Hot! The mornings were nice because after the sunrise crowd left it was very quiet and we were able to just relax and take it all in. In the middle of the day there are just a boat load of people so it is difficult to take pictures. A note of caution on the hike. It is a pretty steep uphill climb and in areas there is really no trail but just one big solid rock that you are hiking on. Overall, I am glad we did it as it is "the" thing to do at Arches.

Take the time and don't overthink whether or not you can do this hike. If you are physically able, you can do it. I'll admit I'm out of shape and I survived. We are two adults with an 8 and 11 year old. I (and I say I b/c the other 3 were all in) was hesitant that we could do a 3 mile strenuous hike. We are not that active outdoors and live at sea level, so this was a first for us, even though we've traveled to several national parks. My best advice is to just do it, go at your own pace, take some breaks to catch your breath and go early for cooler weather. There are people of all ages and abilities out there. Just go prepared with water, sunglasses, a good hat and sunscreen. We started at 10am on a 70 degree day and it was hot, your are in full sun the entire time, with a few tiny places to squat and get some shade under a bush. I wish there were some markers to show you where you were in the distance of the trail. After a long walk across a flat field you begin the uphill climb. I kept asking those coming down, how much further until we get there? If you're feeling tired just ask those on the way down. It is a challenge going up, but once you are there, you sit and hang out a while and take photos and recover for what the return trip which feels like a cake walk b/c it's entirely downhill. The view at the top is amazing. The last bit of the hike is along a somewhat narrow ledge but it's wide enough for two way traffic and did not at all feel crazy (from how some reviews described it) and I am somewhat afraid of heights. It's kind of funny watching all the people head up the trail, from the distance it looks like ants heading into a picnic or the wise men trekking the dessert to bring gifts to Bethlehem, haha. Epic adventure and really worth the trip!

My 24 year old daughter and I did the hike, it was hot so we took our time. Its not a race, enjoy yourself. The one thing I think EVERYONE needs to know is that if you are afraid of heights or a fear of falling, the very end will be challenging to you. I encourage you to look at pictures of the LEDGE and make your own decision. I would hate to make it all the way to the top only to have to turn around.

Due to time constraints, we opted to view the Delicate Arch from the area and paths from below. You will still get a great view without dealing with the strenuous and uphill hike. The arch really stands out and it is understandable how it got its name as there really is nothing more around it.

We debated (it was fast approaching mid 90's) whether we should do the 3 mile hike to Delicate Arch or just drive to the viewing spots. Since it was still about 9am we went with the hike and are so glad we did. It was a really nice (albeit tiring at some points in the sun) hike and you didn't see the arch until you turned the final corner which made the hike all the more fun. I have a big fear of heights and I was ok with the one short area where there was a drop off on one side -- the path is wide enough that you are able to walk along the wall in both directions as you walk that part. Many walked along a slanted bowl area at the end of the hike to get to the arch itself - I couldn't quite do that but enjoyed watching others. This was one of my favorite couple of hikes on our tour of the Grand Circle!

A stunning arch:
- at sunset
- and after 21:00 with Milky Way behind.

A perfect day for everyone who loves nature and photography.

Note: Take sufficient lamps for walks in the night: e.g. headlamp and hand lamp.

We did a circle trip from Las Vegas through Zion NP, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef NP, Canyonlands NP, Arches NP, Antelope Canyon and Grand Canyon and back to Las Vegas. So, the Arches NP was outermost despite this I could say it was worth to go here. Is is so beautiful! The trek is moderate wasn't so easy because you have to go up hill and it is pretty sunny and hot (in May). So take a hat and water to drink. And toilets are only in the parking keep it in mind. The view point is crowded but there is "a queue" next to the arch in order to take photo :) People were quite civilized.

Weather permitting, I would recommend that you never pass up the opportunity to view a sunset at Delicate Arch. For many people this is one of those once in a lifetime experience.

This was my second visit to Arches, and my first time taking the trail to Delicate Arch. My parents, who are in their 60s, and my kids (11, 9) were able to complete the trail with no problems. The hike isn't exactly easy, and there are steep parts and a part of the path that runs along a steep hill. I was impressed with the view, and recommend taking the time to do this hike. This hike is even do-able for families with little kids (need supervision and some hand holding).

there are 2 trailheads to see Delicate Arches. One is a lower viewpoint, you have to hike to see the arches. The other is you drive up a bit, and just have to take a 2 mins walk and you can see the Delicate Arch from the viewpoint.
I want to hike to the Delicate Arch, but the parking is so horrendous, I decided to just view from far away. If i get a chance i will hike to there, because this is a 13 meter arch, it is really tiny from the view point.

Beautiful must see at Arches NP. Its a good hike to get there, maybe 1.5 miles, not overly strenuous depending on your fitness level, but a steep section toward the end. Sunrise and sunset are great times to be there as the light changes. Everyone wants their photo under the arch, and people are pretty good about taking turns to do that. If you are trying to get a picture of just the arch, the trick is to find your spot and wait for the couple of seconds no one is underneath it as people are coming and going. If you go up at night, bring a headlamp or flashlight to be able to get back down. An app like maps.me or all trails is also helpful just to know where the trail is.

The hike is work. However, my children had no trouble with it. It's really hot with relentless sun, which makes it harder. The end of the hike is an awesome view of delicate arch and you can even walk to the actual arch for a picture (it's uneven, steeper sliprock to the arch). Go early!!

it really is as beautiful as the photos. one caveat, as some others have noted, is the hike of 1.5 miles. although rated as moderate, this is a strenuous, uphill hike over slickerock in parts, and sand in other parts. if you are not used to hiking uphill at elevation of 4500 ft. you may find this difficult. need to make sure you bring water, sun protection, maybe oxygen, and patience. pace yourself. but the end is worth it.

Beautiful beautiful place. It’s one of the most beautiful place I ever seen. Hiking is easy and not difficult but you need to have enough water.

Our family chose to hike to Delicate Arch later in the day to capture good pictures of the setting sun on the parks iconic arch. We arrived around 4:30 pm on a Sunday and there were still plenty of spots in the parking lot. On the way to the arch we walked over to view the petroglyphs which adds very little time to the hike. A good thing about the hike is that you can see most of the trail. It is a long gradual uphill trek with a large portion taking place on rock. There is no shade so it can certainly get hot. It took us about 45 minutes to get there but seeing Delicate Arch was certainly worth it. Don’t expect to be the only one there as there was a constant line of people in front of the arch to have their pictures taken. Many people stuck around the bowl area to see the sun set. This made the weather much more comfortable. We chose to return shortly after the sun set and the walk back is much easier since it’s almost entirely downhill. Although it wasn’t always easy we enjoyed this hike and are thankful we did it.

This place is completely breathtaking, and we are already planning our next trip back. The cliffs are a little scary, so make sure you have good reign on smaller children. Mine were 8 and 9 at the time of the trip, and they did great!

The early morning sunlight creates some beautiful vista shots....and fewer people to mess up the scenery. Amazing what nature can sculpt....the whole park is beautiful way to spend a couple of days hiking.

Yes, Delicate Arch is beautiful, and is very iconic. Unfortunately, I thought that Delicate Arch was much more dangerous, and possibly deadly, than I was led to believe. I was actually more frightened and nervous while hiking around Delicate Arch than I ever felt while hiking out to Angels Landing in Zion NP. I’m saying that even though Angels Landing has a much deadlier and dangerous reputation. Please don’t underestimate the dangers on this trail! I would rate Delicate Arch as an advanced level hike, and is fairly strenuous. We saw many families with young children on the Delicate Arch trail. Personally I would not recommend taking children on the hike to Delicate Arch at all.

The Delicate Arch amphitheater is very steep slick rock that is covered in sand in many places. There’s obviously very few secure handholds and footholds on slick rock. In places the rock is about as slick and steep as a playground slide that ends in a dropoff of several hundred feet, and absolutely nothing at all to help stop you from sliding towards the dropoff. So I’ll give Delicate Arch two stars for having a amazing view. However, Delicate Arch gets an overall low rating from me, because the danger on that trail was a very nasty and unexpected surprise to me.

We loved it! The hike to Delicate Arch is quite easy and should not take long. We visited once at sunrise and once at sunset. Both were beautiful but for great photos the sunset was out of this world. Highly recommend.

The trail to the arch is tough due to the heat and height but it pays off after lot of sweating. The view from every angle is fabulous.

My wife and I did the trail walk up to Delicate Arch. There’s a 500+ elevation gain going up. The only part that made my wife nervous was the ledge near the top. But if you keep your head down and focus it shouldn’t be a problem. After that all of a sudden the arch comes into view. A beautiful sight. They say the round trip is about 3 miles. It was a nice temperature May Day. But we were a bit out of breath at the top. We gave ourselves plenty of time so we would be back at the parking lot before dark. It’s a challenge you will never forget.

We did not hike to the arch,but opted to take the short hike to see the arch in the distance. It is not an easy flat hike. It was a little over half a mile climbing rocks at a semi steep incline.

We loved the hike up to see Delicate Arch.
So worth it to see it close up.
Easy to follow trail and plenty of parking.

Went on a cold May day

The hike to Delicate Arch is challenging but beautiful. Speed is not important as I was able to do it with a knee injury from a previous hike and we went slowly and I used two poles. Anyone can do this (except I would caution you against taking a preschooler who is crying at the very beginning that she doesn't want to hike). The kids I saw scrambling up had a good time. Once you did the initial short climb you get to the large, steep slick rock area. This area is very wide to accommodate the crowds. After this slick rock area there is a narrow path along the cliff just before you turn the corner to see the grandness of the Delicate Arch. We stayed on the rocky overhang just at the top of the hike and did not scramble down further to get pictures under the arch itself as the views were great from up high. Get there early. We arrived to the parking lot around 6:45 and it was half full. It was a drizzly day so the park did not close this day as it did the day before, so when we finished the hike to the arch there were still a few parking spots left. It is hit and miss to get a spot as there are as many people coming off the hike as going on the hike.

Delicate Arch we only saw from the viewpoint. It was cool but clearly much more interesting up close. I suggest hiking up for a near up visit.

AMAZING at sunrise! Much less traffic at this time. Hit the trail around 5 am and made it there with plenty of time.

The trip up is interesting to put it mildly. At one point, you travel up a long, wide slip rock. There are crowds and the trail looked like the procession headed to the Mt. Everest base camp. Some parts are a bit treacherous along the trail, but safe if you are careful. If you have children, plan to keep them close. The views from the arch are great. Be prepared for lots of people.

A bit disappointed. Long, hard walk with photo gear. YES, bring plenty of water as every park service page says. Went in the evening to get Milky Way shoot after sunset. Was crowded and plenty of people stayed after dark. I was way to intimidated to venture around the slanted rock face to get close after dark though. I can't believe the number of families with small kids running around there. One slip and you're toast either right in front of the arch, or behind you along the path. We were one of the last to leave about an hour after sunset. You definitely need a plan to find your way back - I was with someone who knew the trail. Another couple took the wrong path (we could hear them in the dark) so we whistled and called for them until they found us. They were quite thankful.

A magical and impressive place. surrounded by nature.

A park must be done if you pass through Utah.

For the summer, the ideal is to come a little early because of the world and the heat.

Everything is easily accessible and planned to welcome people. (Parking, toilet, trails)

Memorable memories!

A strenuous hike for some (including me) but the reward is a sight you will never forget. We went in the afternoon to capture long shadows...stunning!

Everywhere I read that this is the must do hike in Arches NP. Ok they were right!
Problem is I am deathly afraid of heights and there is a section where you are on a path with a drop off of about forever!
The hike itself was not too bad, easy to follow and of course you can stop and take in the views along the way. When we got to the ledge of death, I was like - 'it's not so bad' (Just to explain, I can feel the pull of gravity if I even look toward the edge!). So I grabbed onto my man and stayed on the right going up and it was fine :)
Seriously, if I could do it, anyone can. And it was totally worth it. The view was great! Not too crowded (we went up around 830am). As we went down, it was getting crowded - so earlier is better! Also take a look at the petroglyphs and cabin.

Also, if you go near or under the arch, don't stay too long as everyone wants pictures.

Certainly some effort, more people and not as varied of a trail as Devils garden - but still worthy of 5 stars for the awe inspiring , iconic arch at the end of the trail . Breathtaking and worthy of a nice 30 min rest/ bowing/ pics etc About 45 mins each way for moderate level fitness hikers . A Few parking spots available at 9:30 am on Sunday May 4th .

This hike was moderate, there was a big hill to hike near the start. Take lots of water and a hat. This is not a hike for little kids. There is a short part of the trail that has a cliff on one side, but two people can pass easily. It’s a busy trail but lots of space. There are a few places that it’s not clear but there are pink ties.

It was our first stop in Arches and the sun was setting so we decided to take the View Point Trail to see the Delicate Arch, which was shorter. It was disappointing to only see the Delicate Arch from a distance. Now we need to go back!

This is a great hike for a family with ages 7 and older. It's a steep up hill climb but take your time if needed. It's worth it when you get to the top and see the spectacular Delicate Arch. This is our 2nd time up to the arch and the beauty is always amazing. It's best to go in the cooler part of the day. Be sure to make park reservations, as this process is new and not everyone knows about it.

Fantastic to see in person!!! We started with the long hike to the base of this Arch. It was a hike of medium difficulty, but well worth getting up close to this beautiful arch. Take your time getting there, bring lots of water and snacks. Most of all, enjoy the scenery.

One of my favorite places in all of creation! My friends and I hiked to Delicate Arch in March of 2018 and were stunned by the scenery surrounding this magnificent landmark. The hike was mildly strenuous, especially for my friend on crutches, who was piggy-backed for part of the way. I'm not sure I would recommend this route for someone on crutches; my friends are a bit nuts.. ha! If you're able to make it all the way to the arch, though, all efforts are rewarded.

It’s a national Park - so there is a fee to enter. The pass/fee is good for seven days.
We followed the map and stopped at several points on the way in to see the amazing nature! We stopped at the Arch VIEW point. You can see the Arch from across the canyon. It’s uphill, it’s a short hike on a mountain. We went on to the actual Delicate Arch! It is only 3 miles BUT be prepared it’s a strenuous 3 miles. Steep. Some slick spots. Rocks and more rocks! We are active, fit and in pretty good shape and we had to stop a few times on the way up!! Remember altitude!! Delicate Arch is at 4600ft. We came from Missouri at 250-400ft (hiking is different)!!!!!
If you are 100% wearing a mask “no matter what” DO NOT HIKE THIS! Not a smart move!
There are some areas that may be a bit scary for anyone afraid of heights! It IS WORTH GOING TO THE TOP!!!!!
Views are amazing! And strangers help everyone get those once in a lifetime photo ops under the arch! There are still good humans in America! Take water! Take breaks along the way! Personally, I would not take a young child (toddler) for their own safety! Your child needs to be able to walk on their own “willingly” or it could be more difficult!
Overall 110% would do it if you are physically able!!!!!

An awesome hike that has a huge payoff in the end! Just a reminder, this hike isn’t for everyone. The middle third is the most difficult part of the hike, almost straight up a hill that gets many people tired! You also have to walk around a narrow edge at the end of the rim before you get to the arch. Myself and my kids were able to do it, just making sure I mention it to be sure you do your research. This hike took us about 45 minutes each way. I recommend to get here early, parking was filled around 6am for this hike because it’s not too hot yet. You have to wait a bit to get your photo under the arch, but totally worth it!

Three mile round trip that is quite hard. However, I was very lucky in that I did it in the morning when but cooler and there were clouds around too. Even so still hard going at times but worth the effort! The view at the top was incredible.

This hike was definitely challenging only because of the heat and that there was no shade on the trail.

While Arches National Park has more than 2,000 stone arches, Delicate Arch stands out as a symbol of the state of Utah and one of the most recognized geological features in the world. The arch, which features an opening 46’ high and 32’ wide, is the largest freestanding arch in the park.

We got to the trailhead around 8:30 and found one of the last remaining spots in the lot. It was already 28 degrees. After we changed shoes, slathered on sunscreen, got the pack and poles adjusted and ready, we headed out. The first part of the trail has some up and downs on a sand based trail. With the sun beating down with no shade, it got difficult pretty quick. At about 1/4 of the way up, we had to climb up a very steep slick rock trail. The poles came in handy for me here. Lots of people were already on their way down who probably started the trail at 7am. At the top of the slick rock there was some scrambling and more gentler up and down until we came to the ledge. This is a 4’ wide exposed ledge about 200’ long. Once we came around the corner near the end, we saw the delicate arch and we were at the end of the trail. There was a long line of people wanting their picture taken underneath the arch, but we just stopped for a breather and headed back down. If people are afraid of heights, you can stay as close to the rock wall as possible and don't look down. The ledge is wide enough for people to walk it in both directions at the same time. This is a must-see and do hike.

It is amazing to witness firsthand how these rock formations are standing. I don't think man could do this if he tried.

This is actually a review for the entire park area. There are o many geographical
formations and scenery to see. We went at sunrise and that is a great time to go for many reasons: - less crowds, great light and no entry fee (although I just got my Lifetime Senior Pass).

Bryce and Zion get most notice in Utah .... but Arches and the entire Moab is a great place to be

A somewhat difficult hike especially the last 100 yards (narrow path and steep drop off ledge), but worth it. The Delicate Arch is the iconic symbol of Arches National Park.

This was our very first trip to Moab and Arches National Park is absolutely stunning and worth every minute! Here are some important tips:
1. We drove into the park at sunrise and followed the caravan of cars up the mountain to the Delicate Arch parking lot. By 7:30am the parking lot was full and the ranger told us to enter the lot because he was going to close the lot immediately after us. Recommend to arrive early! Many people go to the arch for sunrise and were leaving the parking lot when we arrived so I'm not clear why the ranger closed the lot. We hiked for about 1.5 hours and when we returned the lot had a lot of parking spaces open.
2. When we finally drove all the way down back to the park entrance, the PARK WAS CLOSED (about 10:30am) and rangers were telling people to return in 3 hours. Very confused why because the park seemed quiet. Maybe because of Covid, maybe because they try to keep the park from being overwhelmed with cars. Anyway, recommend doing the park at sunrise or possibly sunset.
No matter what, it's worth every penny to enter the park! It's for everyone! If you want a strenuous hike or if someone is in a wheelchair - there are sites and trails for everyone.

Well worth the hike up. There was plenty of parking at the trailhead but I imagine it can get full quickly. The first part of the trail is an easy, relatively flat walk before you start the ascent up the slickrock section. After this the trail gets a little up and down on a sandy trail before the final bit over more slickrock before the narrow ledge leading to the top. The ledge is quite comfortably wide enough to feel safe and the great thing is, the arch is hidden until right at the end. Really adds to the sense of achievement.

It's perfectly achievable for anyone with a moderate fitness level. I would recommend hiking boots and trekking poles just for stability but it could be done without. Just don't try in Crocs like I saw one person attempting!

Didn't seem to take half as long coming down!

Take plenty of water on hot days. The hike up is steep and hot on the rock face. I suggest arriving early for a parking space and cooler temps. The view is great at the top.

We hiked the Delicate Arch trail before sunset. It was hot, dry and windy. We took water with us, and should have toted more. The reward of seeing delicate arch is totally worth the uphill trek on the slip rock. It is quite steep in parts, but doable for all ages. Follow the marked trail signs. It is a very cool hike and trail. I recommend! The view of the arch is amazing!

People come from all over the world to visit Arches National Park, and visiting Delicate Arch is on the top of many visitors' to-do lists. It certainly was on ours. This particular free-standing arch has become a widely recognized symbol of the state of Utah.
The light opening beneath the arch is 46 feet high and 32 feet wide, making it the largest free-standing arch in the park. It has had more than a few names in its history, from the colorful ("Cowboy's Chaps", "Old Maid's Bloomers") to the prosaic ("Salt Wash Arch"). I like learning this fun stuff. The term "Delicate" first appeared in a 1934 article about the Arches National Monument Scientific Expedition, which described it as "the most delicately chiseled arch in the entire area.

It's difficult to see Delicate Arch from the main park road; you must get out of the car to view it. At Lower Delicate Arch Viewpoint, you can walk a level 100 yards to see the arch from one mile away. With a zoom lens, you can bring it in. Maybe 15 minutes max for this hike.
Nearby, the Upper Viewpoint (0.5 mi to the trailhead and three miles RT to the arch, with stairs) offers closer and a slightly less obstructed view, but it is more strenuous, climbing 480 feet up a steep slickrock slope. There is no shade and no water and some exposure to heights. Just before the arch itself there is a narrow 200 yard rock ledge which can ice up in the winter.
The trail to see Delicate Arch up close and personal is reached from Wolfe Ranch. Plan on spending 2-3 hours doing this hike which is classified as difficult.
Because of the popularity of this arch, parking at peak times can be a problem.
The park service recommends at least 2 quarts of water per person, and suggests avoiding the midday heat. Temperatures can easily reach 100 degrees.
As harsh as all this sounds, it was truly beautiful and fragile looking. We chose the shorter hike on the lower level, and were not disappointed. There are people under the arch in my photos.

You might hear some advice to go take the hike in the evening to catch that classic postcard photo of the sunset, but we left early in the morning and loved it. We also got some great photos and enjoyed the cooler temps and reduced crowds. Generally, it was pretty easy. But still a steady climb. I did see some small children who made it. I wouldn't say it is dangerous, but realize that the arch is positioned right on the edge of a high cliff.

This took about 2 hours for the round trip. You park at Wolfe Ranch and walk up a steep incline towards the cliff walk to Delicate Arch. The terrain is slick rock and sand for most of the way. The arch is wonderful to see, but don't expect it to yourself. Highly recommended.

My 15 year old daughter and I ventured out on this hike around 7AM on August 15th, 2019. It was strenuous at times on the way up but that's half the fun of the hike (and we are in good shape). We brought lots of water and snacks and stopped when we needed to. The trail has some ledges that are both small yet cool to traverse across. And when you turn the corner to see the Delicate Arch it makes it worth it. Admittedly, it is a busy place, even early morning. There was a line to wait to get a picture under the arch, but that was better than other places we had been on vacation, where you couldn't get a picture without lots of other people in it. But the arch is beautiful. This tall rock structure surrounding by beautiful scenery. We spent almost an hour there, taking it in, getting photos and having a good snack before heading back to the trail head. I would recommend an early morning or late day hike here as I am sure midday is really hot. There isn't much shade on the trail. But if you are in Arches this is a must do!

This iconic arch is really beautiful. The sandstone is lovely red and all alone standing by itself is quite unusual. We went to the viewpoints rather than take the hike as my husband has knee and ankle problems. Good place to take pictures although I'm sure it would have been more awesome if we had hiked up to it.

Took a trip out west in fall of 2018 and did the mighty five! Arches National Park was absolutely gorgeous as my husband and I had never seen the desert areas before! So beautiful and would like to return again soon!

Arrived at dawn on Saturday, Nov. 12th and immediately began hiking just before 7am and there were only a few cars in the parking lot. The arch parking lot is about a 20-25 minute drive from the park entrance with no stops in between. The first 1/4 mile or so is mostly level as you pass the Wolfe cabin and cross a bridge over a wash before hiking up a path toward the rocky slope on the way to the arch. The hike gets steep in some places so it helps considerably to be in shape, but the trail did have some directional park markers with arrows showing you the way toward the arch. As you approach the arch, the last 100 yards or so consists of a path 4-5 feet wide with a steep cliff on the left side, so be careful. As you reach the crest, there is a little ledge to step on and and over to walk toward the arch. The trip up took about 45 minutes, but I stopped a couple of times to catch my breath. I even saw a mule deer walking along a trail about 300 yards away to the right.

As I approached the arch, I took several photos and there were people there, who, when asked, took photos of me and I took photos of them with their camera. There weren't many people there at that time due to the time of day, year and possibly the cold 27 degree temperature. However, you have to be careful while walking toward the arch as the rocky surface slopes to the right and you can lose your footing if not careful. Afterwards, I admired the arch for a few minutes before walking back as it is truly a unique park treasure to cherish. On the way down, I took a brief trail detour to admire the petroglyphs that were to the right (left going up). I was back at the parking lot by 8:30am so the entire 3 mile hike and viewing the arch lasted just over 1 1/2 hours, but I was in a hurry to travel to Bryce Canyon later that day. Even at that hour, the parking lot was about 1/3 full and filling up.

Several suggestions and observations:
1. I strongly recommend wearing good hiking shoes or boots (not sneakers) for more ankle support and better traction on the rocky surfaces or sandy areas. Most of the people I saw were also wearing them.
2. I DO NOT recommend bringing younger children. There was a young couple in front of me with 2 small girls about ages 3/4 and 5/6. It was obvious they were tired and the youngest child was arguing with the father near the edge of the cliff going up - not good. Also, the father allowed the youngest child to climb on the ledge overlooking the arch and it was just an accident waiting to happen - thankfully it didn't. This hike is just not suitable for young children as there are too many places they can easily get hurt.
3, Wear layers for clothes in the colder months. This worked for me and I was comfortable. I also wore gloves due to the cold. Also, a hat with a brim can be helpful in keeping the sun out of your eyes and off your head during hotter months.
4. Bring plenty of water and stay hydrated. Even the park rangers are constantly suggesting this.
5. Go to the bathroom at the parking lot if you have to before going up as there are none on the way up.
6. Arrive early! If you want to ensure a parking space and to get photos without a lot of people in them you have to arrive early if possible. Later in the day, the parking lot can fill up quickly.
7. Bring sunscreen during the hotter months.
8. Bring a flashlight if going up to see the sunset as you will likely need it on the way down.

At first we were unsure about going on this hike but we are so glad we did. It is rated a moderate because there are some steep climbs and drop offs. We had our 2 year old in a hiking backpack carrier, which really is a must for this hike if you have a toddler or younger. Make sure everyone is wearing sturdy shoes and has plenty of water. The view when you reach Delicate Arch is not to be missed. The bowl around the arch itself is a little steep so use caution. The arch is much bigger than I expected and standing beneath it is awe-inspiring. We went in the morning around 9:00 and the trail was not very busy but became much more busy as we hiked back down. The hike took us a little less than 2 hrs round trip. Our three older kids are ages 5, 8, and 10 and this was definitely doable for them with plenty of breaks and good supervision. Truly the most memorable hike I have ever experienced.

This moderate hike 1.5 miles one way well worth it. The grade gets pretty steep as you go up the smooth Rock face about 1/3rd into the trail. After that it's just slow and steady up the last portion. The trail is somewhat narrow but nothing to be alarmed about.

The view of the arch is stunning!

Go early as parking is limited, I was there at 8AM and the lot was full. Also, bring a hiking pole as it will help!

The Delicate Arch is on my bucket list, so we had to hike it while at Arches Nationalpark.

There is a good amount of parking available and also a bathroom before you start your hike. The hike is 1.5 miles one way - so you walk uphill for about 30-40 min depending on your fitness. After 10 min, there is no pavement or path. We hiked it during a cold March afternoon, so it wasn’t too busy. At times we had troubles finding the trail signs since there weren’t people in front of us leading the way. At times, it also didn’t feel safe since you walk along the edge of the cliff - but once you arrive at the Delicate Arch it was all worth it. The view is beautiful! The downhill walk afterwards was much faster and easier!

We had the special treat of being able to see this arch from a side most don’t, as we were on a 4wd trip down cache valley road. We did later see the best trailhead at the Wolfe Ranch parking lot, if you want to hike up to it. It looks fairly easy. We will definitely put it on the bucket list for next time.

Delicate Arch is absolutely stunning for so many reasons. Our only disappointment was in the vast amounts of people. We did skip the long hike, admired from afar and explored other areas of the park.

First, let me say that I hate heights. I hate 'em.

But...

The beginner/medium level hike was at points educational, comically intimidating, surprisingly manageable and ultimately rewarding and it culminated in a sight that was like an alien landscape with a time-travel gate to an unknown dimension and the Sarlacc (hear me out Star Wars people, you'll see it...) below. You can totally do it and it is totally worth it. Bring water, take deep breaths and enjoy. Seriously.

So fulfilling to get to gorgeous Delicate Arch after a moderate hike. The view, rock formations, and final destination at the arch makes this moderately challenging hike so worthwhile.
And there are many easy hikes to gorgeous arches and rock formations in the park.

The hike to the delicate arch is a bit difficult, but so worth the climb. And the view at the top was awesome! I did it with a friend who encouraged me to keep me going. Always share good times with friends, it makes it so much more worthwhile.

We got to Delicate Arch mid-day, blazing sun, and after hours of hiking so we decided not to do the more challenging hike that takes you right up to the Arch, but opted for the "easier" hike (LOL). My family also had just done the more challenging hike and said "it wasn't for the faint of heart," and since I'm terrified of heights I went for the "easy" hike for the viewing. Again, lol, this is quite a hike in itself - practically straight up in the blistering sun - bring your water and wear proper hiking shoes for traction. Once we got to the top, out of breath, we were able to view Delicate Arch - cool and wish the hike there would have been easier - I would recommend arriving early and making this your first hike if you want to do the more challenging hike.

I parked at the Wolfe Ranch parking lot and was hoping to catch the sunset. I gave myself an hour to hike the 1.5 mile trail- figured that should be enough time. I didn't take in account the elevation change. The hike is not hard if you take your time, but if you're in a hurry, it can tucker you out in a hurry! The trail isn't that well marked with evidence of sheared off posts in the ground/rock where there used to be signage. Pretty much you just follow all the people who are making their way to or from the Arch. I was hauling about 25 pounds of gear on my back, but was just able to make it in time for the sun to set.

When I got there, there were about 50 people scattered about. The sun was setting opposite the Arch, so the sunlight was making the Arch glow- it was amazing! I stayed past sunset and then some more, waiting for the stars to come out. There was a good handful of people who stayed behind to do some stargazing- maybe about 15 others. The sky is so dark, the stars appear plentiful. I was able to get a photograph of the Milky Way coming up along the right side of the Arch. It was worth the arduous walk.

This is the most famous arch in the Park, and I can see why. If you're in the area, make time to see this natural beauty!

A moderate hike, the destination is definitely worth it. Unfortunately it is extremely hot in Moab at the moment, so set off as early as possible and take plenty of water with you.

My wife and I went to delicate arch in Arches national Park and it was amazing.
The trail was nice and well groomed and the view was beautiful if you’re going to Moab area and you don’t stop at arches you’re missing out.
One thing I would warn you is to get there early before 8 AM and then you won’t have to wait in line at the gate for an hour we got there about 7:55 and drove Radion without a problem and was able to go to everywhere in the park we wanted to go.

It's long hike. But it's not too hard, although it is steep in many places. It is a very popular hike, so expect a lot of hikers. You get beautiful views and the when you finally round off a corner and get to see the stunning arch, the long hike will be worth it!

lots of parking spaces and a bathroom is available in this area. there are several ways to reach the arch. loved that all the wildflowers were blooming.

We hiked to Delicate Arch for sunrise, and started out with head lamps. It was a great hike with just a few people that early in the morning (7am). However, sunrise at the arch wasn't that awe-inspiring. The sun didn't hit the arch until much later, and by then, it was very crowded. Glad we went early to avoid all the people.

While hiking the Mighty Five National Park in Utah we started in Arches. My son and I hiked up to Delicate Arch around sunrise one morning. Admittedly the light is usually better near sunset with the way the shadows fall, but early morning was beautiful at Delicate Arch. We saw some deer out in the early morning near the beginning of the trail. The parking lot at the trailhead was not very busy first thing in the morning. There are restrooms at the parking lot. The trail from the parking lot up to Delicate Arch is rated strenuous by the National Park Service. It is three miles roundtrip with a good bit uphill. There is a long section of open slickrock about halfway into the hike. There are cairns that guide the way up to Delicate Arch. Do be aware that when you get close to the Arch there is a 4 or 5 foot wide ledge with a significant drop-off. If you have a fear of heights that part of the hike can be scary. When you get near the Arch there are also some edges you will need to be careful of. However, the close up view of the Arch is worth the hike in my opinion. I recommend hiking to Delicate Arch if you are in good physical shape and not too afraid of heights.

This three (3) mile hike is absolutely wonderful. When one goes up to see the Arch, it is the harder than the return trip due to the increase of elevation. One needs to wear good walking shoes and one must be mindful of the rocks on the ground. The pictures next to the Delicate Arch are terrific. This is a popular trail, and it took me about ninety (90) minutes roundtrip from the parking lot to the Arch and back.

The arch was beautiful and well worth the little hike. We were there off season and it was crowded. I wouldn't want to go there during season as the parking lot fill us first thing in the morning.

We parked up about 08:00am, there were already plenty of cars in the car park.

Whilst it's a relatively short hike - 3 miles round trip - I found it quite strenuous.

It's quite steep in places, and walking on the slick rock with no shade was hot.

Right at the end there are some quite narrow paths with steepish drops. Not being fond of heights, this was my least favourite part.

At the top you are rewarded with a great view of the arch,.......and unfortunately not so great views of people hogging the arch for their photos.

Most people waited patiently for their turn under the arch and people were offering to take photos for other couples, but some were oblivious to the fact that people were waiting and had their photo taken in every conceivable angle.

The slope down to the arch was a bit scary for me (being scared of heights) I did venture down into the "bowl" for a photo, but a lot of people were content to sit up on the rim and admire the view.

By this time is was getting very busy, so we set off back down. I was amazed at the number of people who we attempting the hike with inappropriate footwear - flip flops are not the best.

The further down we got, the busier the uphill crowd became. A lot of people were struggling and really didn't look like they would make it. Unfit combined with the heat of the day was making it difficult for some.

I would think later in the day Delicate Arch would become the Las Vegas of Arches NP with people everywhere.

The round trip took us 2.5hrs - which included time spent at the top.

Go early to avoid the crowds and the heat.

Amazing experience! This is not an easy hike, so come prepared to hike across slick rock and sandy washes. We purposely came in November for the cooler weather and smaller crowds and were not disappointed. We arrived at the trailhead around 7:30 in the morning and there were only a few cars there. While we passed some hikers heading back, we felt like we had the trail practically to ourselves! It was a cool 28 degrees when we started so we layered up, but warmed up quickly as we began to climb. There were a few small groups of people at the arch itself taking in the view and taking pictures, but again lots of room to enjoy your time there. The last part of the slick rock leading up to the arch is kind of a steep slope so not everyone may be willing to walk all the way under the arch, but it was amazing to spend some time quietly sitting up on the nearby boulders and just taking in the view. Well worth the climb!

The trail is flat for a while from the parking lot, but you will have to walk over rocks along the way. It takes about 40 minutes to see the amazing views. The area around Delicate Arch is shaped like a mortar, so be careful when walking. It's a pretty tough trail, but it's worth the effort.
It was truly a wonderful view.

There are just way too many tourists trying to get their photo underneath the arch. Hello people I just want a photo of the arch without you in it! Why can't people just sit back in awe of this place? Why worry about the Instagram opportunity?

You may find yourself staring for an hour trying to figure out how this arch was formed, especially perched on the rim of a natural bowl. . . .amazing. There is a moderate 3 mile out-and-back hike, at elevation, mostly exposed to the elements - very warm wind when we went (Nov '20). Understandably the 'star' of this amazing National Park.

Hiked here early in the morning to delicate arch and was definitely worth getting up for. The view was spectacular and I could see how it would get crowded later in the day. The weather wasn’t too bad but there is no shade so hike early or go when the temperatures aren’t too hot.

Definitely impressive Arch. Most of the NP photos picture this arch. I typically stick to easy hikes, this was moderate, maybe even strenuous. The challenge was mostly all uphill going and the last part of the hike was over narrow ledges. You don’t see the arch until the end of the trail. Bring a lunch to eat at the arch. Check out the old homesteads and old writings on the stone. If you go, go early, west good hiking shoes, bring plenty of water, and let everyone in your group go at their own pace.

Don't miss this magnificent arch when you visit the Arches National Park!! It's about a 2-mile hike to get there but it is well worth it and your reward is a great view with this massive arch as the centerpiece.

You’re looking at about a 1 1/2 mile hike one way to get to Delicate Arch. Not a difficult hike but does require a fair amount of endurance as you are walk up done 600 feet in elevation. You definitely want to take a bottle of water for each person. The hike takes you across large slick rock rock faces and up well defined patches. Near the top you will have to navigate you way up a fairly steep incline that features a steep drop off on the left side. Just stay toward the rock wall if you are after of heights. Reaching the top you are rewarded with breathtaking view of this Arch. Lots of great photo op places. You can walk down under the arch and get someone to take your picture

Hiked up on a day when the sun was high and it was in the high 90,s! Even with plenty of water, and thinking we were reasonably fit this was tough. Being at elevation can really take toll on you, so take it slow, and sip plenty of water. I struggled towards the last bit, with elevation sickness symptoms, but rested often and took it slow.
So wort. The effort once you turn that last corner and see the Arch and the view just stunning.
Going down was a piece of cake, and have to say I enjoyed the walk back down, can't say that fot the walk up!

One hour hike is worth it. Even in slippery snow, with no proper shoes. I would love to see it again in the spring or summer.

A bit of a hike to get to Delicate Arch much of it up hill. When you round the corner and the arch comes into view it makes it all worth while. Stunning view. Some edge walking to get to the final viewpoint. This arch is viewable without hiking BUT it looks tiny, distant and nothing like it does up close and personal. If you are able and even just a casual hiker this hike is worth the effort. Stay well hydrated and wear appropriate hiking attire including shoes with a good grip.

Rated as strenuous, but compared to other hikes this seemed very moderate to me. Bring water, go early before the heat of the day and enjoy a really fun hike.

Three of us, ages 59 to 66, hiked up to Delicate Arch. We went early on a cool morning (probably about 50 degrees). Nice uphill hike, well worth it. We made it in 45 minutes. There is one stretch where you need to be careful, but the path actually slopes towards the rock (away from the cliff) and I think the path is plenty wide. Keep children close though.

Strenuous hike for 3 reasons. 1) Absolutely no shade. 2) Steep incline/elevation. Just take breaks as needed. 3) The 200 yards of 3 foot wide rock ledge that precedes the revealing of Delicate Arch. Their is a steep drop off with nothing to stop you if you fall and roll. But if you do fall - you’re probably going to just fall flat on the trail. Stay close to the wall and you’ll be fine. If you have a normal fear of heights you’ll be fine. You don’t realize the true size of the Arch unless you actually walk up to it.There is a flat wide spot to view it but keep going. Just take your time & go slow. To get to the edge of the Arch you must traverse slick rock that is angled, again with that steep edge. But it’s a very large area. Amazing how large this Arch truly is. Go very early or very late to avoid the heat. Absolutely no shade. Take plenty of water. We all had 2 liter camelbacks. We were on the trail by 8:30am and avoided most of the crowds. Climb up the window just before the rock ledge if your able. Beautiful view from there as well. Just do it! You’ll be happy you did! And hiking down was a breeze!

Great hike and incredible views. Would highly recommend this hike! The view at the top is unbelievable!

We arrived here just after sunrise, and hiked the brief hike up to the viewing point. Then we went a little farther, after having seen others come from that direction, up the rock face towards a higher viewing point and sat down. From there we could easily see a beautiful view of delicate arch while enjoying the silence of the canyon but for the birds.

We really enjoyed this hike...Nice scenic hike with great picture opportunities.
Definitely family friendly, but as always...keep your kids at hand as there are some drop off spots, but you can stay clear of most of them.
Out of our entire trip, this did have the most people. I would imagine parking may get tough in these areas during the prime months.
Check out the ancient wall art!

You only get a very distant view from the parking area. It was too hot for us to do the hike in mid September but plenty of others were doing it - it looks quite strenuous!

To get this kind of view of the arch you have to take a longer, sometimes harrowing for those with height anxiety, hike. Or you can view it from a distance taking a different approach (see park map or ranger assistance), then use a zoom lens to get the picture. Honestly, you will see more impressive arches and geologic structures elsewhere in the park. Not worth the long

There were so many people I almost didn't do this, but I'm glad I did. This thing is amazing. Not just the arch itself, but the setting, and the way you can walk most of the way around it.

That said... so many people. I should have aimed for a late afternoon visit, not a mid morning one.

We find that visiting national parks is a great way to get out and experience nature and get everyone off their electronic devices. I walk with a bit of difficulty because of arthritis in my knee, but I was able to do the hike to this arch. Not stroller or wheelchair accessible

Delicate Arch is rated as difficult for a reason. But like many others, my husband and I stopped when we needed to and got to Delicate Arch in our own time. Others coming down were offering encouragement by saying "take your time -- the arch isn't going anywhere."
It is simply a beautiful arch. There were already a lot of people taking photos in front of it, but it was not overcrowded when we arrived very early on a Sunday morning.
We stayed for almost an hour just taking in the views and taking lots of photos.
Don't let the difficult rating stop you. It is possible to make it even if you are not in the best shape. Bring plenty of water.

Going down was much easier with only a few places where it got kind of difficult.

Go early to beat the crowds and the heat. Wear appropriate footwear! Have patience and linger at the Arch. We had an 11 year old with us (slightly adventurous, average kid fitness level) and with rest stops and plenty time for exploring, our round trip hike was just over 2 hours.

Hiked with 5 year old. For that age it is tough . It is around 1.5 miles one way . Almost all of it is at an upward incline . No strollers etc will go as quite a bit of the way is not on a trail but rock .
Lots of water . Morning when the kids are still fresh or post nap later in the day . Back down is easy of course . We went in April . Morning was still chilly so we went later in the day after my son took a nap post morning hike . The last part of the hike had lots of breaks . There were other 8-12 year olds who needed encouragement . But that age will definitely make it .
I might hesitate to take a child who will require any amount of carrying. Maybe younger than 5.
Views are great of course .

The pictures don’t do Delicate Arch justice. You really have to see it in person to appreciate the amazing formation. The hike was not overly crowded.

We took the hike from Wolfe Ranch. In all it’s around a 3 mile long hike. It might not sound very far, but it’s not an easy hike. It took about 2 hours in all (including time spent admiring the arch at the top). You do get a fantastic view of the arch.

The new timed entry passes meant that the car park and trail aren’t too busy. We started the hike at around 8.30am to try to avoid the worst of the July heat. I definitely wouldn’t want to be setting off any later than that. The hiking involves some steep climbs over fairly smooth rock in hot temperatures with very little shade. You definitely need to take plenty of water and a few snacks. As you approach the Arch it is necessary to walk a narrow pathway with quite a steep drop one side so it probably would not be great for those with a fear of heights or drops.

When you arrive at the Arch, you get an amazing view but bear in mind that to get right under the arch you have to walk around the top of a “bowl”. This involves walking across smooth and sometimes slippery rock with a steep drop into the middle. We decided against going right under the arch.. I was quite surprised at the number of families with small children letting them run around near the top as it did not look safe to us. I have since discovered that there have been people killed in that area after falling so it’s worth taking care.

I would say that if you’re reasonably fit and are well prepared with a good stock of water, it’s definitely worth doing the trail as it does give amazing views.

Beautiful hike at sunset. Highly recommend winter, for low crowd levels. Make sure you stay for full sunset, as gets better just after sunset.

We did this at sunset. I'm not kidding, it is uphill and at that altitude, ya better be in shape. No, it's not difficult for the mid-level on up. It is SO worth it as this is one of the world's tru wonders. Perched thousands of feet high, balanced on a plateau, cliff on one side, how did it form? Watching the dwindling sunlight at sunset change it's look was something I will eternally remember. Don't let the long walk stop you!!!!!

This hike is fairly easy for those who are relatively fit and takes about 45 minutes to reach the top. The trail is well established until you reach the steep incline about 1/3 of the way up the trail and that is where trail markings or even cairns seem to just vanish. At the top of the hill there is a few trail signs pointing in the general direction but they are not well placed and are easy to miss. About 2000ft or so before you reach the end of the trail there are some rather large drop offs that I imagine will cut your trip or life short so take care and pay attention to where you are going. The Arch is amazing and takes your breathe away once you turn the corner. I was there in late Feb and there were only about 20 people there awaiting the sun to set. Once the sun set the place turned completely empty even though there was still light. I waited about 30 min after sunset and then decided to head back down with my wife while there was still light. After coming back down 1/4 of the way we got disoriented a bit so much in fact that we began to panic a little since we couldn't locate an obvious trail and light was fading fast. We were able to navigate and find the steep decline we ascended earlier in the day however we couldn't locate any trail markings. By this time it was dark, but I had headlamps so I was not too concerned about being able to see but that didnt help much as there was no defined trail. Long story short we made some wrong turns coming down and had to backtrack numerous times up and downhill to avoid some rather steep drop offs until we were finally able to connect back with an obvious trail at the bottom after about 30 minutes of meandering around. We were fairly certain we were going to be lost and have to stick the night out in the outdoors in sub freezing temps. So even though this may be heavily trafficked trail at certain times of the year come prepared especially if you are unfamiliar with the trails and are out on the mountain at night with no one around. I am an experienced hiker and always carry lights, water, food etc even for short hikes and this experience enforced the fact you should always be prepared no matter how much you think it wont happen to you.

It's not a long trail, but it was pretty tough because we went there in the hottest time of the day, in the afternoon. We had to climb a steep slope with no shade. I recommend going there in the morning or in the evening. You can see the arch clearly when you reach the top, but you have to be careful not to fall down the steep slope to get to the base of the arch.

There are two YouTubers running around messing around while filming, even though one slip means death, and I wonder if they really want to risk their lives to film.

There are weird people everywhere, but I hope they don't have to deal with all the restrictions that are put in place because of this.

Delicate Arch is bigger and more impactful than I thought, and when I think about why only this arch is here, I can't imagine the power of nature. It's one of the most beautiful arches in the Arches. It's easy to see why it's the design of the license plate.

If you go on the trail in the middle of the day in midsummer, you'll collapse if you don't bring plenty of water. In fact, along the way, we saw a couple collapse in the shade and we shared the extra bottles of water we had with us, but it turned out they only had 500ml of water left between them. We saw a lot of tourists like this on our Grand Circle trek, but even on a 3-4km trail, one plastic bottle is risky, so we recommend being fully prepared.

We observed this Arch from the viewing area which affords good views. However, there is a trail to get you much closer if you are up to a rugged hike.

You get a variety of terrain on the way up.... paved, sandy trails, rocky paths, smooth rock. No shade. About half way up theres a smooth rock hillside and made my son nervous when we were walking up to it, it but its not as bad as it looks so he made it fine. When we got to the ledge that was just about enough for me to stop right there and quit. I eventually did go but I stayed right up against the inside against the rock and didn't look anywhere but in front of my feet. Its maybe 3-4 feet wide and theres a very steep cliff side. I have to say it was much more nerve wracking than I expected based on other reviews. However, i made it and the arch was beautiful. I regret not sitting up there longer and taking in the view more but I was very anxious about having to go back down the ledge. My 12yr old & husband had no issues with the height but every time my kids would climb to a different area it would panic me because you can't see whats past them to know if its a cliff side or not. Going down the ledge I clung to the side of the hill again and oncoming people went on the outside. Most people didn't seem to care but if you have a fear of heights it will def test you. I saw all ages make it to the top .... senior citizens to young kids to parents with baby carriers on their backs. After getting down from the ledge its a breeze! We went first thing on a sunday morning and there were people but it wasn't crowded. It was worth the trip for sure!

To get to the Delicate Arch it is quite a hike uphill most of the way ....about 6 km return ...it pushed me and was supported by friends so felt great achieving it .....it is one of the highlights to head to Delicate Arch for sunset . Many join you up there ....the sunset actually occurs in the opposite direction which you see with a great view as well but the colour of the arch glows a bright red. Make sure you take a torch for the return journey and a jacket for the desert evening.

I had not done that hike in 20 years and it’s definitely harder as you get older. I wanted to get there before the sun went down but I just missed it. It took about 45 minutes up at a little less back. Next time I will not push it so hard. Definitely not an easy hike, but worth it. I would not want to do the hike down in the dark.

The view from the difficult hike is great, but don't feel like you have to risk yourself to see the arch. The difficult hike has a really steep portion. And a very narrow path with a steep drop iff. The short hike and even the roadside view are still very nice

We headed on this 3.0 mile hike around 1:30 pm and arrived at Delicate Arch around 2:45. It takes me a bit longer because I take a lot of photos on the way.
I found this trail to be a bit challenging in that you are hiking uphill for a good amount of time, and then you are hiking on narrow ledges, but it is very doable. The reward at the end is well worth all the effort. Delicate Arch is just stunning.. the views on the way up and when you reach the top are unbelievable. You can spend as much time as you want up there. Many people were just lounging, enjoying the views. We stayed for about an hour. At 3:50 we headed down.

Highly recommended!

Just a word of warning. The viewpoints give you a postage size view of the Delicate Arch. If you want to get close to an Arch go to the Windows Section.

From my research it seems like sunset is the most recommended time to do the delicate arch hike. I included pictures from the lower and upper viewpoints and neither provide a decent view of the famous arch. So if you’re in decent shape, definitely do the hike to the arch. I’m not in the best shape, and it took about 45 minutes to go up and then 30 minutes down. If you plan for sunset, get there an hour prior to sunset to enjoy the golden hour. Then if you’re lucky, you’ll get a gorgeous sunset.. which we didn’t the day we went because of low clouds. BUT don’t leave right away.. I want to say about 80% of the people started heading down once the sun sets but then the sky lit up about 10-15 minutes afterwards. I included the photo of what we got to experience and it was so pretty! I actually stayed because I was hoping to get some photos of the arch without people under it and boy, was I glad I stayed. There is most likely way more people around sunset but most people are civil and with some patience everyone will get some nice photos. And remember to bring a headlamp or flashlight if you do sunset because it gets dark fast! Totally worth the 3 miles round trip to see the arch up close.

I doubt anyone ever has this arch to themselves anymore. Finding parking is your first challenge. Then, It's a fairly steep 3 miles with a little bit of exposed section but I honestly think anyone can do it....just take your time. It's always busy and crowded - even in the off season, but it's worth it. There were probably 50 people there when we were there. Beautiful place. Be respectful of it if you go - clean up any garbage, don't walk where you're not suppose to, be quiet and try to just focus on the beauty that surrounds you.

You can see this arch from a couple viewpoints, but to really get a feel for the size and beauty you need to hike up to the arch. It is a steep hike in parts--especially across the slick rock section. But if you can make it up that far, the rest of the way is pretty easy, so don't give up. There are a lot of people wanting to take a picture at the arch, so it's a challenge getting a picture of just the arch, but you can do it if you're patient. People are very good at taking turns in the arch, so you can catch a time when they are swapping places. But hold onto your phone/camera. When we were there someone dropped theirs and it slid all the way down into the canyon below!

This one will depends on how much u wanna walk. We did both of the observation overlooks. Talked about going to the actual arch the next day but went to another park. Very nice

The hike to delicate arch is uphill but very worth it. The area is quite windy so make sure to keep a hold of your hat. Bring lots of water and a camera! The new ticketed entry system worked well and there was parking available at the trailhead.

One of the most popular trails in Arches National Park in Utah is the 1.5 mile trail (one way) that will give you an up-close experience with one of the parks most iconic arches, Delicate Arch. The trail is listed as moderate and, with the exposure to the sun, steep rock faces, and some narrow ledges towards the end, it is definitely not an easy trail. The views are definitely worth the effort as you gain a little over 600 feet in elevation with panoramic views in all directions. The highlight, of course, is Delicate Arch, which is the arch that is depicted on Utah’s license plate.

We hiked the trail starting at mid-morning and the temperatures were already starting to soar. It is very important that you take plenty of water, at least 1 liter per person, to help combat the heat and dehydration. We had both a Camelback with 3 liters of water as well as a power drink with electrolytes. As we reached the end of the trail and had the opportunity to see Delicate Arch, we were glad that we decided to do the trail, although we probably should have started a little earlier. People were lining up to get their pictures taken standing inside of the arch, but at least while we were there, we had opportunities to get photographs of the arch without anyone as they changed places with other tourists. We weren’t worried about having our photographs taken inside of the arch, so we opted for panoramic views and yes, we did take a selfie.

The Delicate Arch Trail is certainly a worthwhile hike within Arches National Park. It is extremely popular, especially at dawn and dusk when photographers come in droves, but it is busy all day long. The parking lot can get very full, but we were fortunate enough to find a spot near the trailhead. It was the first of our hikes in the park and we certainly learned some lessons about getting on the trail as early as possible and stopping in whatever shade we could find to help ourselves cool off. Seeing Delicate Arch was definitely one of favorite memories of the park.

Seeing Delicate Arch at sunset is fantastic. We spent about an hour at the arch taking in the views, snapping photos and watching the sunset. The hike to the arch is good not great, but this experience is more about the destination not the journey. Took us about one hour for the hike up and 45 minutes for the hike back down. Parking can be a challenge so get there early if you can.

The hike to delicate Arch is strenuous or moderate based on your fitness. We went there in the early evening, which if you read the reviews is not popular. But clearly a lot of people hadn’t gotten the memo either. We waited 1 hour to get pictures taken under the arch. Don’t be surprised if people act entitled and take forever to take pics with no regards for others waiting. It is breathtaking beautiful, but remember to cut out the noise and just savor being in the moment.

Points:
1. Trail to DA is about 1.5 miles with a steady slickrock climb in the middle of the hike.
2. Trail also has some sandy and rocky areas but minimal
3. Only cautious drop off point is near the end of the hike
4. Even in the fall late afternoon, the hike is moderate to strenuous for seniors
5. Viewing area willing be crowded but it is an area to relax
6. You can walk around the bowl and down to the arch but be prepared to wait in a disney-world type line for a personal/individual photo
7. Getting a strange tourist free photo takes some planning and split second photography and individual/groups scramble to and from the arch
8. Late afternoon is the best lighting of the arch
9. Trail is now well marked by NP posts/signs ... in the past, the trail was marked by cairns
10. A lot of energy is rewarded with a great view

This is the most amazing arch and the one you come here to see. It is amazing that it is still standing. As the name implies this arch is delicate and incredibly precarious where it sits. This is a MUST SEE item in the park and one of the only ones that all 16 members of our visited. One thing that accentuates the arch is its setting in the bowl like feature that makes the arch that much more incredible. For Arches the round trip hike is 3.2 miles with over 600 feet of elevation gain which makes it one of the longer and more challenging hikes in Arches NP. In addition the views from the hike are also impressive while you are walking it. However, pay attention because it is easy to loose the trail on this non-descript Hard Pan. The pictures are great, but even they will to not do it justice. This is one hike you MUST DO while you are at Arches.

After running out of time on the last visit, I made sure there was plenty available to complete the main trek to stand under this impressive and illogical piece of nature. The "Exploring Arches" leaflet that you receive upon entry described the three mile walk as "Elevation gain of 480 feet, no shade, open slick-rock with some exposure to heights, take plenty of water" and bot are they right. I am a capable hiker and the pathway from the Wolfe Ranch car park starts lovely, soft sand with minor undulations which then lead to shallow rising solid rock that is easy to walk on. This get's a little steeper and there are various signs hammered into the rock to ensure you are on the right trail because I dare say you could easy go off the beaten track and wonder around for ages. Over a few crests and you wonder where it is when passing a couple of tall outcrops the pathway becomes very narrow and quite steep. Passing your fellow walkers becomes a little perilous as one side is pure rock and the other is a sheer drop off (could do with traffic light system during busy times but we seem to sort it out ourselves). This section of about 200 feet is not for the feint hearted and I would say watch your children closely but those I saw on my visit loved the adventure of it. Quite suddenly you are at the peak and a quick clamber over a knife edge and you are at the glory that is Delicate Arch.
The first thing I noticed was that the ground is not level but slopes at sometimes quite a steep angle and great care is needed getting down to the actual arch. Anybody falls over and starts rolling will find great difficulty stopping themselves before the 100 foot drop into the canyon! maybe being a bit alarmist there but i must admit I felt like i could end up "bottom over tit" at any time.
The bowl that the Arch sits in is quite wide and there are places to sit/lean against the rock and recover from the climb and just soak up the natural beauty.
Then it is back down the same pathway and whilst you do feel the effects of the walk I have to say it is something I can finally place a tick against on my bucket list - was it worth the effort?
You bet it was.

Well worth a visit, this is such an incredible set of rocks. If you think rocks aren't cool, then that's even more reason to see this place.

The hike is not particularly difficult, so don't be put off!

Bring lots and lots of water, don't be afraid to take your shoes off and definitely don't drop anything down the cliff.

Was surprised that middle of October was still a pleasant time to visit in terms of weather.

It's a bit of a hike to the Delicate Arch but worth it. We hiked it midday, I would recommend getting to the park early in the morning, it was about 100 degrees the day we hiked it. Amazingly beautiful.

This is a moderate difficulty level hike with a spectacular destination at the end. If you are in decent shape, it is well worth the effort. Do the main hike & not the shorter hikes to Delicate Arch viewpoints as the short hikes to the viewpoints just can’t match the view up close.

It's hard to put the beauty of this place into words. The trek is about an hour long with some steep inclines, but it's worth it.

The views are stunning, specially during sunset. Be very careful at the arch on the slope. I didn't see anyone going close to the arch because it was too steep.

If planning to go during sunset, make sure you take torch with you & try to be with some group. It gets dark pretty quickly after sunset and there's no guided trail. Also there's ditch on both sides, so a torch & water would come very handy.

I have to said it’s a kick on the neck but once you reach it the views are very much worthy of the pain!!

This is probably the most breath-taking arches in the park. You'll need to hike a little to get there, so make sure you bring all the water you'll need. Tip: Go early or late in the day to enjoy the cooler weather, and there's a little window view up on one of the ledges where you can view the arch and the entire area about 3/4 of the way, makes for a spectacular photo.

Based on previous reviews, we arrived 1st thing in the morning! This was worth it! Very few people at the arch which allowed us to get pics under the arch. This was a very strenuous hike but so worth it! We saw many people pause on the way but they all made it. Just take your time...you'll be happy when you arrive. The delicate arch is stunning. Probably the best hike we did all week while visiting several national parks. Once we were there, being slightly afraid heights, I felt like the main area of the arch had a slope inward (if I'd trip and fall I'd start rolling over the edge). Made me a little uncomfortable but loved every minute of the arch.

This park has so much to offer ! There are so many arches to see! It’s best to get there early am as it does get very hot! No dogs are allowed!
Also remember to pick up your trash when you leave!

Incredible!! But go early. We arrived at 6:30am and the lot was almost full. Moderate hike, quite steep. Phenomenal views once you reach the Delicate Arch. A must do in when visiting Moab! By 9am they shut down the lot and park rangers were turning cars away because there was no more parking so come early!

well.....its all uphill to get there...and all downhill to get back to your car. Actually I prefer getting the "up" out of the way first. When you reach that first sandstone rock formation you'll think of a lot of words that cannot be printed. Just take one look at those ants (people) at the top and then put one foot in front of another ...have confidence...take rest breaks and you will make it. After that's out of the way its much easier. September temps in 80s but the sun was sooo strong. Be sure to have sunscreen and water/electrolyte mix. Once there its inspiring. You sit and enjoy and get pics and relax for about an hour before starting back. Being there in the early afternoon on a weekday there were many people at the arch but EVERYONE respected each other and one person or couple at a time would walk under the arch for someone to get their picture. So nice to see. The walk back as mentioned is all downhill. Make sure before or after seeing the arch to take the side trip to see the petroglyphs - pretty incredible.

A moderate hike to breathtaking scenery and an incredible sunset. The walk back did not disappoint either with fantastic colors past sunset. Take water and snacks to have a little picnic prior to sunset.

I will forever joke about this hike trying to kill me. Between the heat, the altitude, and the steepness it's a medium to moderately hard hike.

It was well worth it, watch your feet on the slick rock, and take a ton of water and your time. There's no shade until you get closer to the arch.

This hike was HARD for me. Now I will admit I am not a very active 40 something person and we decided to do this hike at the worst time of day. The temperature was 95 and the sun was intense. It feels much longer than 1.5 miles up the steep incline. I took my time and had to stop many times on the way up. I almost gave up a couple of times BUT let me tell you- I am SO happy I stuck with it. It is truly amazing once you reach the arch. Just beautiful! My advice if you’re like me- Take LOTS of water. You will need it. I can’t stress that enough. Wear shoes that can grip the ground a bit. You have to climb a slick rock. Where a hat and use a hiking pole if you have one. Also, don’t go at the hottest time of day. You won’t be sorry you made the hike!

Hiked out to Delicate Arch for sunset and it was amazing. The setting is spectacular and well worth the effort of getting there. Left about 2 hours before sunset. Plenty of parking still available on a Sunday evening at the end of August. The hike is indeed quite strenuous and took a little over an hour. Stiff uphill climb much of it over slick rock. Walking along ledge at the end of hike wasn't too bad. Bring lots of water! Even at this hour it was over 90 degrees F and absolutely no shade the entire way. Able to get all the photos I needed. Lots of people there at sunset but not an overwhelming number during these Covid times and at this time of year. Plenty of room to spread out. My best photos were about 30 min before sunset creating a cool orange glow on the arch so don't wait until the last minute to get up there. I left 5 min before sunset as the Arch was already shaded and the views on the hike down were spectacular as well. No problem hiking down at twilight which lasted for 30-40 min after leaving.

The Delicate Arch is Incredible. The hike is not easy as expected and a proper footwear and GPS or navigation would help a lot. We lost at night without a GPS and would recommend to hike only during daytime if you’re not the adventurous type of not worrying about getting lost. During summers it’s very hot and plan to hike for an hour with water before sunset for incredible views.

My husband and I did the trail to Delicate Arch. It is a great trail that is varied in what you hike. You start on a path and soon come to walking over slickrock and eventually on a ledge about four feet wide before turning the corner to gaze upon Delicate Arch. If you want to get a little closer you climb over some large rocks. Three miles round trip but with elevation gain.

Delicate Arch is the most widely recognized landmark in Arches National Park near Moab, Utah. The 60-foot-tall freestanding natural arch is depicted on Utah license plates and on a postage stamp commemorating Utah's centennial anniversary of admission to the Union in 1996. In fact, the Olympic torch relay for the 2002 Winter Olympics passed through the arch. So we had to observe it up close and personal, right? Even a 78-year-old retiree. Well, my wife, also a 78-year-old retiree, took a pass. But I managed the 1.5-mile uphill hike in less than an hour. Delicate Arch certainly is a wondrous sight to behold, especially at sunset. Because of its distinctive shape, the arch was known as "the Chaps" and "the Schoolmarm's Bloomers" by local cowboys. It was given name by Frank Beckwith, leader of the Arches National Monument Scientific Expedition, who explored the area in the winter of 1933-1934. Delicate Arch is formed by Entrada Sandstone. The original sandstone fin was gradually worn away by weathering and erosion, leaving the arch. Other arches in the park were formed the same way but, due to placement and less dramatic shape, are not as famous. In 2006, climber Dean Potter made the first recorded free solo--no ropes or protection--ascent of Delicate Arch. Although there were no rules forbidding such a climb at the time, the National Park Service has since disallowed climbs on any named arch within the park year-round. I hadn't planned to make the ascent. Photographs will do nicely.

We really wanted to hike Delicate Arch but truthfully I was scared how I would do and the little girls. We took the park rangers advice and woke up at 4 am and got to the parking lot by 5:20 am. It was a bit chilly first thing. The sun starting rising while on our hike. The weather was perfect! The toughest climb was the long section of rock. But after that it was easier. I didn’t like the narrow pathway right before the arch because of my fear of heights and it was hard to let my children walk around on top
Because there are ledges everywhere. My older kids did fine but we kept the younger two
Next to me. We brought a lot of water as recommended but with all of us we only went through a couple because of the cooler temps.

We hiked this trail at 8:00 in the morning in October and it was just about perfect. 52 degrees and a little cloudy. I can see how it would be hot, hot, hot at other times. It was fun to walk up the slick rock face. I don't love heights and I did fine. There is about 200 yards where you are exposed to the edge. But people were considerate and everyone waited for traffic to clear before taking their turn. We didn't walk down the bowl to the arch, but another hiker offered to take our picture and we have a great shot of the two of us with the arch to our side and behind us. Great memory.

Pictures on postcards do not do this arch justice. They hike is considered difficult and increases in elevation quite quickly. There is very little to no shade so I would suggest not doing this mid-day. We went after 3:00 and it was not as crowded and a very short wait if you wanted your picture taken in the arch. Everyone took turns and were patient and friendly. It’s about a 1.5 mile hike out one way, be sure to bring water.

The hike itself is beautiful but we weren’t prepared for the actual arch. It’s amazing to walk around the corner and take it in. It was more breathtaking and pictures just don’t do it justice. I would definitely suggest that when you are done you drive to the lookout for a different perspective. It’s unbelievable to see it from moth perspectives.

I can see how it would be challenging when the park is seeing peak attendance. I wouldn’t miss this in Arches.

My wife and I attempted the upper trail to the Delicate Arch and found it quite difficult for people our age (late 60's). My wife couldn't make it to the top, but I made the entire climb and felt completely wasted. But the view of the arch from that vantage point made it well worth while.

Weekday visit, so not too crowded. Mid-day so the hike to the arch was a little warm, definitely need to bring water. Just before the arch, there is a sheer cliff, but the trail slopes inward and is wide. Once you get to the top, there is a sandstone rock that you need to traverse down to get to the arch. Make sure you have shoes that grip well. Recommend this hike; however, it could be difficult for some.

What an incredible place to visit, Arches never disappoints, even though I'm a local and have visited it multiple times, I am still in awe whenever I come. The hike is a bit strenuous and in the middle of the day it's hot, make sure you're prepared with water, sunscreen and good shoes. But the reward is seeing the Delicate Arch at the end.

The trail was packed with people even in December. It's like walking on an expressway. The arch is definitely spectacular but you will be with many other people. The hike is easy except for the last few hundred yards where there is a drop off which some might find daunting. If there is snow or ice on that section of trail YOU NEED SPIKES to be safe. 2 people recently died here and I can see why. It is treacherous in winter conditions.

We hiked up to Delicate Arch an hour before sunset and the views were absolutely magnificent. We hung around until sunset and there were quite a few people there. However, everyone was very good about letting individuals/ groups take turns to take photos under the arch.

Beautiful and impressive arch. The walk to there is inclined and not much shadow around so it is recommendable to do the walk early in the morning.

It's iconic, and better done on the hike vs. the viewpoint areas. It's worth the visit for sure. Summers can be crowded, but a winter visit was not at all populated and an exceptional experience. Was a moderate hike with 1 area, near the end, that was slick with snow. The snow on the red rock was beautiful and it's a nice place for a picnic. Suggest an early start for sunrise impacts on the arch.

You must visit Delicate Arch if you visit Arches. It is a bit of a hike to get there. It is mostly all uphill on the way there, including a part of the trail that is a steep incline up a smooth rock formation. But it's all worth it once you get to the top to see this famous arch. It is a great photo opportunity with the La Sal Mountains in the background. It can be a bit windy at the top so dress accordingly if you visit on a cool day.

An incredible natural arch which by no means is easy to walk to so be absolutely prepared for the walk up hill over vigorous terrain and temperatures which in the summer (this being September) which were so hot so make sure you have water to hand! Once there you will be in awe of nature at its most incredible best!

Delicate Arch can be viewed either up close via the trail or from a viewing area quite aways distant. It is stunning either way. If you take the mile or so hike have plenty of water in the summer!

The hike out to Delicate Arch is worth every uphill step. Before our trip I saw so many pictures of this Arch, but seeing it in person was so breathtaking! It is a tough hike out to the arch because majority of it is uphill. Once you make it up the hill, the rest of the hike is not bad. Yes, it is going to be crowded. You will not be able to avoid the crowds. I recommend starting early in the day, wear sturdy shoes and bring water. We passed so many people who looked unprepared for this hike. Fortunately, while at the arch everyone was considerate, taking turns for pictures and being patient.

I enjoyed the walk up and found it easier than some descriptions. It certainly makes it easier going in the cool of the morning.

When you get to the top the view is just jaw dropping. We stayed for well over an hour on a nicely shaped bit of rock in the shade just taking in the beautiful sight.

Of course there are folk wanting to have their pictures taken standing (or jumping) under the arch but it was all very disciplined. Nobody hogged the stage and once one or two pictures were taken they moved away before the next person or group moved down. This left plenty of opportunity for people free shots which is what most of us want.

This was our 3rd visit to Arches NP, but the first time we hiked to Delicate Arch. Since it is the number one most popular Arch, we started our hike at 7:30 AM. This was great, because it was relatively quiet, cool and the hike was pleasant. The hike ietself is rated difficult, which is true when the weather is hot. In cool conditions, it is pleasant, not very steep or very long. It took us less than 45 minutes to get to the Arch. We are fit, but not top athletes. Parts of the hike are narrow, with a long drop on one side and a rock wall on the other. Some people were hesitant to walk this ledge. It is easy when it is quiet, but it can get dangerous when it is overcrowded. At the Arch, one can get under te arch to take pictures. When we were there, people were very disciplined and pleasant taking turns to get into position under the arch and get their pictures taken, mostly by strangers who did their utmost to take good pictures. A great atmosphere amongst the visitors! If it gets too crowded and people start pushing, it can get dangerous, because there is not a lot of room under the arch where one can stand safely. Top Tip for delicate arch: visit early in the morning!

Like other reviewers mentioned, schedule your time for the trail, the trail is not easy, prepare plenty of water, reach the arch before sunset, and it will be getting dark quickly after sunset, prepare a headlight if you can for getting back to parking lot.

Hey folks – This arch is a hike – wear real shoes! No flip flops! Take water and a hat. Leave the small kids at home. It’s totally worth the effort, but it was alarming to see people try this no-shade hike over desert rocks as if it were nothing. Be sensible and enjoy!

Start this hike early in the morning to beat the heat and beat the crowds. We started around 8am and it was not early enough to beat the crowds. Moderate hike from a exertion perspective. It was an amazing view once we got there. The disappointing part was that there were so many people at the arch and it was difficult to get a picture without people in your arch picture. Also, you might not want to bring your small children on this hike. We saw a few kids that were having a complete meltdown going up and going down. Also, unbelievably saw several infants without protection and some elderly folks that clearly should not have been on the trail. Be smart people.....

Listen up travelers !!! We went in November and the crowds were small, but the temp's were perfect. Dont be deceived by the lateness in the year cause you trade cooler weather for less crowds. The arches are incredible and there are like three trails to get you there. These arches are stupendous and spectacular to say the least. They are overwhelming and must be seen in person.

This was the third time we had hiked to Delicate Arch. You do work to get there and it is so well worth it! After going up the slick rock the trail moves off to the left. Right before you get to the end, you hike on a wide rock ledge. When the rocks to your right end and you see Delicate Arch for the first time, it's just breathless! There really are no words to describe seeing this area. We have completed this hike in June, July and October once in the evening and the other two times in the morning. It is hands down one of our favorite hikes in all the national parks. This place always feels reverent and every time we visit, other hikers are talking in hushed tones or whispers. A must see!

Delicate Arch is a gorgeous natural arch that adorns many license plates in Utah. It's a walk to get to, and it can be windy or cold in early spring, but hundreds of little kids knock it out every day. Be prepared - wear sensible shoes (flip-flops are not recommended) and bring lots of water if it's hot. You'll be glad you made the trip when you get there, though! Be patient and find alternative angles for photos of the arch while you're waiting for a chance to get your own iconic photo!

When shooting in Moab, I find it's good to slightly under-expose, and fix foreground details in software. Most software can fix anything, but if you over-expose the clouds, they're lost forever.

Do not be afraid of the trail leading to delicate arch. I am a big guy and with some prep work before the trip I was able to summit in an hour. Entire trail up and back was two hours for me. The lower section is fairly easy with some short elevation gains but nothing too tough. There is a petroglyph viewing area that splits off the main trail which we did on the way down - it's easy and flat and worth the very short side trip. The middle section is seriously steep slick rock and I needed to stop several times. Do not skimp on the water. Bring double what you think you will need. I drank at least 2L throughout the trail plus a 28 ounce Body Armor sports drink when I was at the top. The last third can get dicey if you are with little kids. There are some cliff edges you have to navigate - one is pretty narrow 2-3 feet wide. The main ledge at the end of the trail is about 6 - 8 feet wide and is sloped to the inside - but you still need to watch your kids closely. At the top you will have to hop over a small rick ledge to actually access the slick rock that leads up to the arch - but if you don't you still get the full experience. I hiked this early in the morning - it was still predawn and I had headlamps. The temperature was comfortable at around 70 degrees but more importantly the trail is less crowded and the sun is not beating down on you. This trail offers no real shade. If you hike it after 7:15 am you are staring directly into the sun the whole way up, and in the afternoon the sun is directly on top of you. Bring a hat and good sunglasses. Even though we were on trail early I still had the sun in my eyes on the last section of ridge at the top. There are pit toilets in the parking area but little coverage if you have an issue on trail - go before you go. The trail is extremely popular and you will likely never be alone for long depending on what season you go - even in the predawn there were at least a dozen or more hikers plus my group. Markings were in place when we went but have a good map or app with you just in case. Don't necessarily follow the people in front of you - they don't always choose the correct path and in some cases were on a completely different mission to take photos from different vantage points. Know where you need to be - it will save you time and effort. All that being said - this trek is totally worth it. It is awe inspiring.

My husband and I hiked here twice. The second time was for the sunset and stargazing. AMAZING. Be sure to take your flashlight (red light) and a blanket if you can!

Check the forecast before planning the hike. Not worth doing in 106 degree heat. Great view once you make it

Hiking to Delicate Arch was a top 10 experience! My husband and I went with another couple and we are all 65. We all exercise regularly. We live at sea level so I did some extra workouts on the stairclimber and uphill treadmill walking. I was a little nervous about the end of the trail where it narrows and there is a drop off. I read tons of reviews and looked at pictures. It turns out that by the time I got to that point I was so excited and couldn't wait to see it and the trail was wide enough to feel safe. I kept my eyes forward not looking over the edge. I was greatly rewarded when I turned the corner and saw that arch. It took my breath away. We stayed up there for about an hour taking some pictures and eating our snacks. You have to be in moderately good shape to do it. It is a 3 mile round trip trail. Getting to the arch is all uphill walking and steps with 538 ft elevation gain. The weather in September was perfect. We brought 2 liters of water each and didn't drink it all. We used trekking poles which helped a lot especially on the downhill. I would not recommend this hike if you have bad knees , if its too hot or if its wet. Most of it is on slick rock including at the arch. Definitely wear hiking shoes. You have to be careful if you want to get close to the arch. Under the arch is a huge dangerous hole in the ground which they call the bowl. I was very careful in this area. Be prepared, take your time and enjoy this beautiful spot on earth. I am still high on life after doing this.

Destination Delicate Arch. That’s the rallying cry of many park visitors during the late afternoon and early evening, as throngs of people begin hiking up to this incredible rock formation that’s pictured on Utah license plates. Hundreds of gazers, lots with camera tripods, gather in a confined space at dusk to watch the sun paint new colors on Delicate Arch. Some evenings, the park service stations a ranger near the arch because tempers flare when people linger underneath the arch and ruin photo opps for other shutterbugs. When my daughter and I hiked there, tourists had formed a long line and took turns snapping photos of their fellow travelers under the famous rock formation. How long? Twenty to 25 people long. Not exactly a pristine moment in nature’s solitude. Despite the feeling of being caught in a turnstile, we still enjoyed the moment. That’s the superpower of this park; its beauty blocks out the noise.

The 3.0 mi/4.8 km (round trip) trail to reach the iconic Delicate Arch is an extremely popular route to what is perhaps the world’s most famous arch, which is pictured on the Utah state license plate. Depending on the resource material you review, the trail is usually rated either moderate or strenuous. If you’re a very fit, experienced hiker this trail shouldn’t pose much of a problem, but all others should be prepared for a surprisingly challenging hike.

To get to the trailhead from the Arches National Park Visitors Center, drive 11.7 mi/18.8 km north into the park on the main road until you see the right-hand turn to Delicate Arch and Wolfe Ranch. Turn right and drive another 1.2 mi/1.9 km to the parking area on your left (north) unless you’re driving an oversize vehicle, in which case you should enter the parking are to your right.

NOTE that the best time by far to photograph Delicate Arch is around sunset, when the light of the setting sun causes the arch to turn a beautiful reddish-orange hue. If you’re not intent of getting the perfect photo, then consider going early in the morning to better avoid the crowds and the midday heat. Also NOTE that the trail is almost fully exposed and much of the trail is on slickrock, so bring water and wear a hat, sunscreen and good hiking shoes. If you plan to visit Delicate Arch at sunset, be sure to pack a headlamp and (depending on the time of year) a extra layer of clothes, and plan to arrive at the arch at least 30-45 minutes before sunset so you can claim a seat around the bowl and scope out a spot to set up your camera.

Some of the reviews and descriptions I’ve read of the hike break the trail into three distinct thirds. I prefer to think of it in four segments. The first part of the trail is an easy walk on a graded gravel path. The second segment begins with a couple of switchbacks, after which there are some additional short climbs but nothing too strenuous. The hardest park of the hike is easily the third segment; this is where you will walk up a steep section of slickrock, eventually ascending 500 ft/152 m. Once past the slickrock, the fourth and final segment of the trail levels out more, although there is still a gradual ascent. This part of the trail isn’t always clearly marked, so when in doubt look for cairns that will direct your path.

As you get closer to Delicate Arch, you will see Frame Arch to the right. True to its name, this arch can form an excellent “frame” for a photograph of Delicate Arch; however, it does require a good deal of scrambling to reach it, so take care and be safe if you decide to climb up to it. The last leg of the trail follows a narrow ledge for about 200 yd/183 m—keep an eye on your kids here as there is a significant drop-off from the ledge. When you get to the end of the ledge and look to your right, you get your reward for all your effort -- your first look at Delicate Arch, and what a grand sight it is! Until you see in person, it’s hard to imagine how big and impressive it actually is. If you sit down along the bowl that surrounds the arch, take a moment and watch the faces of people as they arrive and see the arch for the first time ... you probably had that same expression. The challenge of the hike combined with the reward of a close up view of an iconic sight add up to a truly memorable experience.

This was the first hike we did because of all the ones we planned to do we thought this would be the hardest one which it was but it was also the most worthwhile! Getting there and being under the arch and seeing it in person is so much better than seeing any picture some random person takes and puts online. Do not go if it’s rainy because the slick rock will be that much more dangerous and there is no shade till the last quarter mile of the hike so be prepared for that as well.

Seeing Delicate Arch up close was amazing. We started our hike (3.4 miles round trip) around 8AM and finished around 10:30AM… that includes 30 minutes waiting in line at the arch to grab a picture. It was hot - took lots of water and took breaks on the hike. Going in is all uphill and no shade. Coming back was much quicker being downhill. There is a side trail that’s short to view petroglyphs. We added that on the way back. Views along the way are all beautiful. Glad we did it early but it was still busy and the parking lot at 8AM was already 2/3 full. When we came back at 10:30AM cars were waiting for spots.

We went to the Lower trailhead and walked to the overlook - great view of arch without walking to it.

Hiked the 3 mile round trip in late afternoon and experienced some of our favorite time at the Park. Just hanging; people-watching; breathing and snapping photos of this iconic arch while the sun was going down. Despite the number of people, everyone was relatively quiet and seemed to enjoy their time in the shadows of the beautiful Delicate Arch. Again, our favorite experience at Arches NP.

Definitely the most distinctive arch we visited at Arches National. It took us about an hour to trek up, nothing really dangerous but some parts where you need to walk along a narrow ridge without handholds which might be problematic for those afraid of heights. The inclines are generally moderately steep but it's easy to find small nooks and crannies to shelter and rest on the way up. The arch itself is a wonder of nature and justifies the climb. If you plan to stay for sunset, be sure to bring a torchlight for the descent and good shoes is necessary as well.

Worth every mile and every step. The payoff of the view as the sun came up was a very big deal. We had no idea what we were getting ourselves into but needless to say we loved it!

Taking this hike you can literally stand under the arch. It is so worth the hike to see it up close. It's not an easy hike but the trail is well marked with lots of people using it, even at 8am. There are some steep drop offs but nothing too bad. Plan for it, i.e., water & snacks and take your time and you will be rewarded.

Let me start by saying that I am absolutely not athletic, I don't work out and I am not an experienced hiker so I was a bit worried about taking the hike to Delicate Arch... and it is a long and painful walk but we managed and it was definitely worth the pain.

For those that are like me, make sure that you have proper walking/hiking shoes, bring water, wear layers (we were there in the fall) as you will be sometimes cold, sometimes hot depending on what the sun and the wind decide to do. A walking stick would be good (I didn't have one) and most importantly take your time. There are plenty of people who will pass you but does that really matter.. in the end you'll get there.. like me. Took me almost 45 min but I made it.
We also brought trail mix, nuts and dried fruit to have enough energy to get back. The walk back in fact wasn't as hard as I thought but again we took our time, especially on the hardest stretch (both ways) which is the rock face that you have to go up or down.

The views along the way and at Delicate Arch are absolutely fantastic. We enjoyed every minute of our adventure.

With all this being said, I do not think I could have done this in the summer. We had cloudy weather on a 60F fall day which was perfect.

Honestly we saw every national park in Utah and this trail to Delicate Arch was the most spectacular for picturesque views. The trail is also short enough to be manageable in an afternoon.

Hiked in February and had the arch to ourselves for about 20 minutes. Traction is very helpful. Lots of unprepared people on the way dow.

This is the icon of the SW and breathtaking in person. Hike is always more difficult than I think; it is steep. One of my favorite hikes of all time.

Another must see event in the Arches park. Sunset hike was a very popular time but not overly crowded. 6 treat old got tired and I had top pot her on my shoulders for a good portion. But our 9 year old was a trooper. The payoff was so worth it.

This was unlike anything you can imagine. Awesome hike and views that will take your breath away. We started early (7:30 am) and we are so glad we did. But, if you go this time of year there was and likely will be ice on some of the sections, so bring your crampons and appropriate hiking boots and make sure you bring a water bladder in your backpack, because you need your hands free to get over some of the rocks. This hike was not difficult but was challenging in some parts due to the ice and some of the terrain you have to traverse but it was beyond worth every single bit of effort we put in. I cannot believe how believe this is even real. There were hardly any people up there when we finally made it and our pictures are outstanding. It took us exactly three hours from start to finish (round-trip) with lots of time at the top taking photos and enjoying the view. After our hike to Delicate Arch we spent the rest of the day in Arches NP and went on every hike and saw every single thing there is to see. We spent the entire day there and would go back again because it was so incredible. You must do this!! But please be sure you have on proper footwear, proper clothing, and bring your water; even on cold days you have to stay hydrated. We are in good shape so it was challenging due to the ice but not difficult. But we saw many people struggling due to not having on proper footwear, etc. I imagine in the summer it is easier due to no ice but you will definitely need lots of water. Have fun!!
This was our first stop on a 9-day Utah National Parks, Monument Valley, and Salt Lake City Trip and it was a fantastic start to an epic trip.

We spent the day at Arches National Park. We were fortunate enough to get a CD from the gift shop that offered a narration of our drive through the park. It was very informative. We have been to many national parks and this one ranks in our top five! Love it!!!

It is the symbol of Arch National Park. Delicate Arch does look out of this world ... almost resembles moonscape. Definitely worth the short walk ... could be more challenging for the elderly.

Even in the morning this hike was hot and tiring. It's all uphill. Really uphill. Yet, it was fabulous! The trail is easy to follow...mostly because you will be in a long string of people also going up this trail. The arch at the end is marvelous.

Tips:
Get there early to get a parking spot.
Take lots of water with you.
Stop and see the petroglyphs near the wolfe ranch on your way.
For the love of God, please don't bring little babies on this trail. There was more than one baby screaming in misery. It's hot. It's sunny. It's tough on their little bodies.
If you don't feel up to the hike to the top, you can view the arch from the scenic viepoint which offers two viewing spots where you view the arch from a distance.

Our 6 am timed ticket was an excellent way to start the Delicate Arch hike. It was cooler and mostly shaded as the sun was rising. We entered the park at 5:45 and were parked at the Delicate Arch parking lot and ready to hike at 6:20.
I came here with my family of 3 children and husband 25 years ago and even though the Arch hasn’t changed the crowds have grown. The early morning crowd was understandably a good size but still plenty of room to enjoy the Arch.
The Delicate Arch is a must do.

Visited Arches National Park; each arch has its own beauty & such a breathtaking... Have fun & enjoyed every moments of it.

I found this hike to be dangerous and not worth the effort. If you have any fear of heights, this is not the trail for you. It is all uphill, and then when you get almost to the end you must walk around the side of a wall of rock on a 5-6 foot wide ledge. If you fall off the side of the ledge, it is a straight down drop of I don't know how many feet, and you are dead. Once you make it around on the ledge, the top of the trail is still all rock and there is not much room. On your right is a rock wall you need to climb over to access the arch. On your left is a few feet of rock and then the deadly cliff edge. Why no rope or barrier to keep people from dying? Even after you get to the top and over the wall, there is a huge rock "hole" next to the arch. Not sure you could climb out if you fell in. I made it to the wall, took 3 pictures, and left. My husband got all the way up there and had to turn around because there was no way he was walking the ledge. I felt terrible. I had read there was a ledge, but people said they had a fear of heights and were able to do it. I have no idea how. I do not have a fear of heights but even I was extremely nervous walking it and the whole time I was at the top. I can't believe people take their children up there. Insane. My recommendation is to view the arch from one of the viewpoints and not worry about losing your life.

This hike is very steep (especially in the middle) but well worth the effort for the views of this arch. Do this hike early in the day before the heat (and the crowds!). Most of the hike is over exposed rock with very little shade. It took us a little over two hours roundtrip. When we made it back to the parking lot in the early afternoon, park rangers were there to warn people about the heat and provide guidance on how much water to carry.

I have no idea how people do this hike in 80+ degree weather. I arrived on a Thursday morning at 6:45am and the weather was perfect. Also, I'm not sure why people describe this hike as 'easy', as a moderately fit person, I was definitely struggling to make it to the top.

The view is beautiful but this seems like something you see once and then never again.

Nice hike uphill with some rock scrambles on the way to the arch. The arch is much larger than you think. People look like specs when they stand near it.

We stayed for sunset & it was just a beautiful sight.

Visited the Delicate Arch twice. The first time was in 2017 during the 105 weather end of August, a solo trip. This time it was with my wife on April 14th, and it was 75 with nice gentle breeze.

Delicate Arch is something to behold. The hike definitely seems longer than 1.5 miles (one way)...but apparently it is. The elevation gain was a little difficult for me, but that is normal for me, and others didn't seem to have much difficulty. The views are great...and I'm sure sunset it great...but remember, if you go at sunset, you will be hiking back in the dark and that is not something I would want to do. But it certainly is something to see and the hike was definitely worth it.

Buy the $12 gift shop hiking spikes! Best hike in the park. The last bit is a narrow, icy trail with shear drop off. The spikes made all the difference.You don’t see the arch until the last bend. It will take your breath away, beautiful

No pictures give Delicate arch justice, you have to see it in person!! It is beautiful!! Please don't be like me however, and not read the map. I thought it would be right off a path and it turned out to be a 3 mile (Mostly uphill) hike! It is worth it and the views during the hike are breath taking, just prepare yourself!!

Needless to see, Delicate Arch is the landmark of Arches national park and of state of Utah and you have to see it up close. Fortunately, the trail to it is relatively short and not strenuous at all. Every time when we visit Arches, we will go to see it around sunset time.

Believe me or not, this is what I travelled for. I took a long flight from Europe, I drove days and days through California, Nevada, Arizona. I hiked more than 1 hour under the sun. And finally, around the corner......wow! Back at home, and you on the licence plate on my door, remind me the day I met you some place near Moab.

I'm going to be brutally honest - I am not in shape. At all. I was concerned to do this hike, because I didn't want to hold up my family members who were excited to get up close to the most famous arch in the world. I almost sat it out, but my 9-year-old convinced me it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so I sucked it up, and grabbed my hiking poles and water, and joined my husband and two kids for this hike. We started EARLY in the morning (necessary, especially if you are going in the summer, which we were), and left on the trail by about 7 a.m. We were able to get parking, and use the bathrooms before heading up. I will not lie - this trail (for me, especially) was HARD. Initially, it's a pretty standard trail, well marked and maintained, but it morphs into a hike where you just try to pick the easiest way up the assortment of slick rocks that are in front of you and seem to go on forever. I was thankful for all the water we had with, and my hiking poles. We took many breaks for my benefit, though it made me feel better that others on the trail also needed breaks. I was initially worried about the ledge we would need to walk on in the final part of the trail as I'm afraid of heights, but it wasn't that bad, and I was easily able to navigate it as long as I stayed toward the inside.
The pay-off/turning the corner and seeing the Delicate Arch right there was totally worth all the effort!
A note: There were many people at the arch, but people were great about taking turns.

Jut did this hike again 25 years after the first time. The first time was in April, when the weather is great no matter what time of day. This time around we hiked in August and wow does it get hot! Had breakfast at 6:15 am and got to trailhead by 7:15 am. Not a moment too soon. The hike was fantastic, took about 2 hours round trip, brought us to the incredible Delicate Arch which is totally amazing and worth the trip, and hiked back by 9:30 am, glad to be leaving the hot sun while others were just starting out. Yikes.

We walked to the lower and did the short hike to the upper viewpoint instead of taking the long arduous hike to actually be right at the arch. Both views were great, with the upper one having a better angle and superior view of delicate arch. I recommend this option if you don't want to do the long hike that goes to the delicate arch.

Our recent trip to Arches was amazing and made even more special by the 4X4 excursion we took. Our guide Mike did an excellent job and enhanced the trip tremendously.

I planned this trip last minute, and when I get here, I find out the Delicate Arch is inside a National Park and you must make a reservation before 4 p.m. to go in. I wish I would’ve seen this, but I was able to make a reservation and went in right at 2 p.m. You can still go in after 4pm for free.
 
The hike is good, but once you get to rocks to start hiking up, that could be tough, but even if you’re not in shape, you can still do it. If it’s summer, bring a lot of electrolytes to drink, snacks, and good hiking shoes. Once you get to the arch, it is mind-blowing and worth the hike. Getting closer to the arch, just be careful as you walk, and if it’s too windy, just be careful as it can stumble your balance.

This is the iconic symbol of Arches NP and pictured on Utah’s license plates. The hike to get there starts at Wolf’s Ranch trailhead — about 3 miles round rip and is difficult, especially nearer the top with its flat and slippery rocks. The trail is steep (about a 500 ft elevation change ) but scenic along the way. Also note the multi- colored rock formations of red, green, cream and brown stone. A great photo op once you get on top!

Arrive early! We arrived to the park at 6:30 and to the trailhead around 6:45. The hike up was pleasant but cold. It is doable in the dark if you have flashlights or headlamps. There weren't many people hiking at this time of day. There are multiple paths to get to the arch and the pathways are lined with cairns set up by the park rangers. However, it is still easy to get lost on the way up. We reached the arch before sunrise and it was beautiful to watch. We even got to see a bride and groom take their wedding pictures at the arch! If you are afraid of heights, there is an area where you have to walk along a cliff's edge to get to the arch viewing point. This trail is moderate to difficult and there are steep inclines in some areas. I recommend bringing breakfast to eat the the top of the viewpoint area while watching the sun rise. The sun does not go through the arch itself when viewing from the hiking viewpoint, but rather rises to the left of the arch. The colors of the rock formations change every second while the sun is rising. I have heard that this hike can be difficult in the mid-day sun because of the heat and lack of shade, so I would recommend an early-morning hike. In total, we spent 3-4 hours - hiking up, sitting for an hour watching the sun rise, then hiking down.

Fairly strenuous hike, was surprised coming down to see older folks and folks with toddlers and young kids. This hike is not for the faint of heart and must be strong and stable if you have a windy day like we did. The top of the cliff was so windy I saw people nearly getting blown off the edge and a few were taking unnecessary risks to get under the arch for a picture. This is not necessary and will photograph better from further back any way. There is a steep slope the arch sits on and one wrong step, you can easily roll down into a deep pit and the result would not be good. Dramatic arch, gorgeous panoramic views around it. Probably the most impressive in the park. For people in fairly good shape, took us hour and half round trip.

Surprisingly steep climb to get up to the top made this more challenging than expected. Make sure to bring a LOT of water. The arch at the end was magnificent! Saw older people and kids on the trail. I was glad to not have my 4 & 6 year olds though as I heard a lot of complaining. :)

Not having much time, we admired the "Delicate arch" from the most panoramic points from the opposite hill, also climbing very high. Amazing show!

It’s a blessing to see this piece of art from Mother Nature. The hiking part is strenuous but the reward is sweet:)

This trail is not short. Set aside 2-3 hours to do it justice and not kill yourself. Go early to avoid crowds if they bother you. The trail up the flat rock is kind of miserable, but the arch is worth it.

Everyone knows delicate Arch, right? It is practically the symbol for Arches NP, so you have to hike to see it. It is a hike for sure….in no way easy and at points not for the faint of heart. My daughter had knee surgery so did not want to do the hike,, so afterwards went to the viewpoint , but even the viewpoint was a half a mile very steep hike. Glad I saw it, but was not more impressed with it than any of the other arches in the park.

Do not do this hike if you have balance issues. My husband convinced me that this hike was largely flat and doable. My 75 year old mother came along on this hike with our teen daughter. I have a middle ear injury that permanently affects my balance. We did go all the way to Delicate Arch but it nearly killed us. We got started at 8 am on August 10, thinking that the whole trip would take 3 hours. Wrong. My mother and husband had to take frequent breaks. The slick rock is largely uneven. I was afraid of placing my foot in crevice and twisting my ankle. My husband slipped and fell three times. You have a very steep and large boulder to hike to get to the arch. On the way down, I asked two park rangers how often that they have to help a hiker get back down. They replied at least once a day. By the time my husband fell a third time, a park ranger came and walked us to car to determine if any of us needed to be hospitalized. We didn’t have to go under the condition that we all go back to our hotel and rest and rehydrate. Yep, we sure did. When we got back my mother noticed that multiple blood vessels broke in her calves. We had booked private tours of the White Rim Trail and Chicken Corners that she missed. Thankfully, we were staying at the Red Cliffs Lodge which had beautiful views.

We hiked to Delicate Arch in November, starting early-ish in the morning of a sunny (but cool) day. The walk has a bit of everything - colonial history (a historic shack), pre-history (petroglyphs), slick-rock, clambering, ledges and - when you get around the final corner, the amazing Delicate Arch! It stands off to the side of a natural amphitheatre, and we couldn't imagine how it came to be formed. Amazing and beautiful.

We got to the parking lot about 8:45 AM and the parking lot was already full. People were just starting to leave when we got there because many people go at dawn or during predawn hours to see the sunrise.

This trail is rated as a difficult hike however I don’t think it is particularly difficult unless you go mid day. As the maps and information state, there is no shade except early in the morning hours when you might be able to stand next to a bush or small tree. If you do this hike in the middle of the day or when it was very hot it would be much more difficult however I think everyone would suggest that you do this hike first thing in the morning.

We spent about three hours going up to the arch, hanging out for a while and then hiking down. I took several pictures and posted them here of the trail. There are some places as you can see in the photos where the trail is very specific and narrow and other places where you could walk pretty much anywhere going up the hill or back down to the parking lot.

I would say that you need to be in fairly good shape because you’re starting off at a good altitude of over 6000 feet and walking for a good hour all uphill over rocks.

When we got there, as I said, the parking lot was full, so the attendant to the lot was motioning people to just keep moving. I talked to her about it and asked her if I could wait till somebody came out of the parking lot and she told me that I could go across the street and she would wave me in once somebody left. I did this and was able to get a space almost immediately after I got there.

I would definitely recommend this hike and definitely recommend going as early in the day as possible. It should go without saying but you should wear hiking boots and definitely take water.

we were fortunate that we hiked this in the morning and had overcast skies. so did not have to deal with the heat. it is a beautiful hike of about 1.5 miles each way. the way up is some uphill and in the open with no shade. a very interesting section is going up a huge section of slickrock, but not to worry because the traction is excellent. just before the top there is a ledge of about 3 ft across that does have some exposure for those afraid of heights. then once getting to the arch, it is awe inspiring. not many people there when we arrived so we had plenty of time for photos under the arch. you need to be careful to make sure you have good shoes with good soles for traction. the arch is huge. this hike is one to make sure you do when in the Arches National Park. highly recommended.

Pace yourself on this scramble - there's a good 15-20 minutes when you are on an unrelenting, fully exposed walk up sheer rock. Take at least 2 pints of water and wear a hat! There are one or two places where you may need to wait for people returning to pass, as it is a bit narrow. The view is fabulous, and you can walk all the way up to the arch if you like!

You can get a pretty good view of the arch from the viewpoint. But, to actually see the arch close up, you need to hike the 1-1.2 miles up. It is well work the hike. You can walk under the arch and look at the canyon below it.

The hike was so far and it honestly was not worth it. I would not recommend it. We were highly disappointed.

We headed straight for this arch after a 07.30 arrival at the park but it was still surprisingly busy. The trek is quite strenuous and does have some narrow paths at height. It is obviously, very busy when you get to the top and, even at that early hour, you had to jostle a bit for photos. We would recommend you put aside 3 hours or so to allow for plenty of photo stops along the way. Personally, would not have wanted to do this in the heat of the day and peak times for crowds would make it uncomfortable. Wear good shows for walking, take water and sunscreen and use the toilets before you start the trek. It can be very windy and cold at the summit. Overall, an unmissable site and experience. There is an alternative, less strenuous viewing site along the road.

I left the parking lot in the dark. The trail isn't too bad, but it is easy to lose your way a bit that early, though the correct direction seemed logical. I was glad to have my GPS to confirm exactly where the trail was supposed to be, 15 yards or so over. At the top, just before delicate arch, you have to go to the left of what's best described as a short butte. A couple of ladies crab walked to Delicate by going to the right of it, risking falling down a steep hill. The National Park service does not build trails that risky. Anyway, I wouldn't recommend going that early. It takes forever for the sun to hit the arch. Everything else is lit up behind the arch for at least an hour after sunrise (April), except Delicate Arch. The plus side is getting a picture of yourself under the arch without a problem.

Everyone knows it don't they, but it's so incredibly special to round the final corner and see the Arch in all its glory. And of course you've just had a tough one hour plus uphill hike to get there so you're entitled to be pleased with yourself and what you've come to see. Absolutely!

The hike up on a hot day is quite demanding with few shady areas. Go prepared - water, hat, sunscreen etc. We saw people going up their in flip flops...! Have a positive mindset and determination to get there. But go at your own speed. We're average fit and it took us over an hour with breathers along the way.

I certainly don't think it's dangerous, and the fear of heights thing, for me, is absolute nonsense. At no point are any of the trails so narrow that you worry for your life.

Be aware when you do get to the magnificent viewpoint there might be a semi-orderly queue for the ultimate photo shot. Be also aware that some families abuse this privilege massively by having every combination of their entire family up for endless photo opportunities which does test the patience somewhat of those quietly waiting for their turn.

Step by step I took this hike. It was intense, but so worth it. We went at the end of the day - got to the trail at 545 PM and finished by 730 PM. I was too afraid to go right under the arch, but wow I was so happy with the pics I got.

In the National Park Service Visitor Guide, the hike to Delicate Arch from Wolfe Ranch is identified as a “difficult trail.” However, with some planning and good pacing, my husband (age 73) and I (just turned 68 yesterday) found it a very manageable and memorable hike. As advised, we took plenty of water and each carried along a single hiking pole, which we found helpful at some points (though not on the slip rock section). We started in the morning (about 9:30 am) when it was cooler, and, more importantly, when there were some shady spots along the way. Instead of waiting until we were feeling fatigued, we stopped often when shady spots appeared along the route and drank some water. We watched plenty of people go past us, but we had no schedule to keep—we simply enjoyed the changing surfaces of the trail and engaging views. We were glad we’d been told ahead of time that the “ledge” section (described in Park literature as a “narrow ledge,” thus very likely frightening some folks away) is really plenty wide (about 6 feet) and slants slightly inward towards the rock wall, so no need to fear.

Once at the arch, allow plenty of time to sit back and admire the view. The hike back down is easy—still, keep staying hydrated.

Out of curiosity, we went afterwards to the Delicate Arch viewpoints just to see what we’d have take. away as a memory had we not hiked the trail from Wolfe Ranch. There’s just no comparison. So, take your time, plenty of water, and every opportunity to get out of the beating sun—and you’ll have a terrific experience.

This is the iconic arch of Arches National Park (and Utah). It's a steep climb over slick rock to get there, but totally worth it. We were racing against the sunset so we made it up in less than 45 minutes, but it is challenging. Definitely not for the mobility impaired (there is apparently a viewing area closer to the arch that is accessible by car and maybe a short walk). When we arrived at the arch there were a handful of other people waiting to see the sunset over the arch. Beautiful.

There is a viewing area only about 0.1 mile walk to take photos or there’s a trail about 0.6 miles one way with a little climbing for a better view. We did not walk all the way to the arch as it was getting late.

You have three choices for viewing Delicate Arch: Delicate Arch Trail, Upper Delicate Arch Viewpoint and Lower Delicate Arch Viewpoint.

Delicate Arch Trail is the most popular, and most difficult, by far.

This trail, three miles roundtrip, has a 480-foot gain in elevation, crosses slick areas and exposes you to heights. Also, there is no shade on this hike; make sure to bring plenty of water. The payoff, of course, is an up-close view of Arches National Park's most famous arch, the one pictured on Utah license plates.

You can also see the arch from Lower Delicate Arch Viewpoint (see my review, "Way off in the distance") and from Upper Delicate Arch Viewpoint (see my review, "Very little blue sky visible"). My reviews include representative photos of the views from each.

TIPS:

* The deciding factor on which trail to do may be parking. There was a major traffic jam at the Delicate Arch Trail trailhead when we got there but, since we weren't planning to take the three-mile hike, we just drove through the pullout at the right, avoiding the tie-up, and continued down to the viewpoints, where there was plenty of parking.

* Oddly, the most delicate arch I saw in Arches National Park was Landscape Arch (see my review, "See it before it collapses"). By comparison, Delicate Arch looks pretty sturdy!

Very nice walk to and from. Bring some water as it`s a fair distance, but all worth it. One must go see it.

Not a bad hike to see such a site. Well worth it! Be patient with the photography hoggers. They eventually go away.

Worth every second of the hike! Its just over 3 miles round trip to get from parking lot to Delicate Arch. We did it in late June (its HOT) with 3 adults and 5 kids (ages 11 - 4). It is strenuous in parts and there is safety issues for small kids so just be alert (no guardrails or safety railings). We did the short viewpoint trail at night for sunset, then did the trail that takes you all the way to the top the next morning. Both were fantastic!

we loved the hike to delicate arch. this was a highlight for me when i visited arches as a teenager, so i was excited to return with my family. it’s a tough hike—i wouldn’t take tiny ones—not sure it would be worth it—but my youngest (eight year old) was perfectly fine. try to time it when it is cloudy or not super hot—this would be a tough one in august 100+degrees heat.

So go early when it's cooler out. The hike to get there is fairly long and quite strenuous most of the way. It is beautiful when you get there. Wear shoes with good tread. To get a picture up close you have to walk around a sloped area and you don't want to slip. Overall a great experience!

We hiked this the beginning of April with 4 adults and 6 kids under the age of 10. We lugged the chunky 3 year old around but the rest did the hike just fine, maybe a little slower. We started hiking at 8 am and it took us 2 - 2 1/2 hours. Plenty of parking at 8 but it got really busy soon after. I'm glad there were so many people because I could see how one could lose the trail easily if there weren't a lot of people around. I downloaded the trail in my GPS in Moab like somebody suggested and then I had it when I went into the park. There is a wide ledge the last 200 ft and we just kept our kids by the wall but it wasn't nerve racking or anything. After you get to the arch, you still have to walk across this bowl shaped rock to stand underneath it. Some kids required we held their hands while making our way to it but it wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. Some kids were running full speed across the bowl so it's not terrible. Amazing arch and I hope it's around for a long time!

We LOVED our visit to Arches National Park. Wow the rock formations and landscape is something to behold! Was such a great surprise. Definitely recommend doing the ‘windows’ or ‘Delicate Arch’ on sunset/sunrise. We did windows on sunset and abosolutekh loved it. We had move of a ‘wow moment’ here than at the Grand Canyon.

We also did Delicate Arch on sunrise. Was spectacular & totally worth it! If you plan to do the same, just make sure you bring good torches and know the route. Signage is few and far between once the gravel track ends and you continue on the rock.The second last sign just before you get to the arch actually points in the wrong direction (more towards the right) and so we took a more dangerous route and lost the path in the dark. Walk is much safer and not too strenuous if you take the right trail. Was incredible on sunrise though, so don’t let our experience deter you.

We also did the Double O trail. In our opinion the walk itself is better than the Double O Arch. An incredible walk past Lanscape Arch and along a rocky ridge overlooking devils garden. So stunning!

It can be quite hot on the trails in Summer so start early & then go and enjoy air conditioning in the middle of the day. :)

Arches NP is next to Zion the park in the USA that impressed me the most. When there you just have to hike to world famous delicate arch! The arch you see on so many travel agency's ads, in movies or instagram posts.

At first I advice everyone to do the hike to the arch, when I was there in August in was as expected in a desert pretty hot. Bring a backpack with some water, and a camera ;) The trail goes some uphill so if you're not used to it your legs might hurt. But since you'll encounter lots of people doing the hike it might encourage you to continue haha.
Arriving at the arch you can sit on the rock and enjoy the scenic view and take pics. When I was there I had to wait a bit to get a pic of the arch without having a tourist walk in the image for a close selfie with the arch. But definitely worth a visit.

I will for sure come back and spend the night there on the camping, the special rock formations have a special charme with the milky way behind it. And is perfect for night photography
I was there in 2014

Beautiful area . Hike can be a bit strenuous, ensure you have water and proper hiking shoes. Dress accordingly the weather can really take the fun out of this hike.

1.6 miles and 500' vertical from the parking lot, the hike to Delicate Arch takes about 45-60 minutes for a fit, enthusiatic adult. If you have a backpack with Gatorade and a snack, you'll thank yourself, especially with how hot this area can get. What makes the destination cool is a couple of factors, including the arch itself, the surrounding rockscape and the social experience of the desintation being populated by like-minded hiking tourists armed with cameras.

If you can, plan to arrive 30 minutes before sunset (have a headlamp!) and you can enjoy the sun setting behind the arch.

Delicate Arch is the most amazing rock feature in the park. How it could protrude/remain be sculpted from the massive slick rock defies imagination. We didn’t hike to it - we hiked to the lower viewpoint and looked across. Amazing!

This place itself is what defines Arches on a lot of pictures or promotion material. The arch itself is much bigger in reality than what it might look like on those pictures. To see it in person, you need to go on about 1 hour long hike.
Delicate Arch trail is the hike path that leads to the Delicate Arch and it's my favorite activity in Arches. Without it, my visit of this national park would be a bit boring. Besides that, you won't get to Delicate Arch any other way, so it's almost a must-do trail.
The trail is not that difficult regarding terrain, but it's surely difficult regarding heat outside. Prepare for few hours of walking under direct sun. Bring liters of water with you, as there is no place to get it on the way, maybe also some snacks. There is also no toilet stop on the way. But there are few dry toilets at the parking lot at the trailhead.

Crowds at sunset. Bring water, be prepared for slippery flatrock trail. Get back to parking before dark!

I really recommend taking the hike to Delicate Arch. It is much further than it looks so you should be prepared. Bring a lot of water and wear good shoes. But the hike is absolutely worth it, ‘cause the scenery is stunning. You won’t regret going, the hike up there is an experience itself.

We were glad we made a hike to this place early in the morning. Its quite a hike for people of our age, but worth the effort. Literally we saw no one on entire route. The weather was great and the best part of it was the silence all around us. We managed to sit for a while relax and then get some great shots with not even one person in the background. A beautiful Arch and a great view from the top. Fro those who like a little adventure you can walk all the way up to the Arch, but with a bit of caution.A travel journalist clicked a nice photograph of ours. Viewing a heard of deer in the wild on our way back was a bonus. A memorable hike indeed.

The only reason somebody will want to come to Arches and miss it is because either they are injured or there is some medical condition which stops them from hiking, otherwise, no matter who you are, there is no reason for you not to visit Delicate Arch. The other 2 view points are not the substitutes for visiting the place itself.

The place is famous and parking is limited. The best time to visit it is the sunset but we visited in the morning. Novice hikers may get scared looking at the mountain before them, but trust me, once you are on top, everything is very easy.

Carry plenty of water, despite cooler temperature, we exhausted all the water we carried (1.5L/person) by the time we came back. The scenes behind the arch are also beautiful.

Go visit it.

Its a more than 4 hours drive from Lehi (probably 5 hours from Salt Lake City) to Moab City. Access thru entrance road of Arches National Park. And the park have several sites to look at and the Delicate Arch is the best experience. The trail and the hike was wonderful and surprisingly the view and red color rock is a first time experience for us. Now we know why it is the most popular attraction in the park.

Delicate Arch is one of Moab's most iconic arches. There are great views from viewing areas afar, or you can take the hike right up to the arch which is even more incredible.

Tried the short version of the hike to see Delicate Arch and got most of the way there. The view wouldn't have been much and pictures were off to the distance. So if you want up close and personal and can handle the hike, stop at the first pullout and take the 1 mile or so each way so you can get to the actual arch. Probably not for seniors.

I am 74 years old and while I walk regularly, I'm not especially fit. I'm also afraid of heights. But I made it to the top!

It was November, so it was not hot. The ranger explained that it is rated strenuous because the slick rock reflects heat and so it is dangerously hot in warm weather. but in cool weather it is very doable.

The last bit is narrow with a steep drop-off on the side. But the other side is a wall and the trail slopes toward the wall, so I kept VERY close to that wall and only looked up.

Once I got to the top I enjoyed the view of the arch, took a couple photos, and returned. I did not try to walk around at the top because that did look very scary.

It was a beautiful hike, not too difficult though a steady uphill, with that gorgeous surprise view at the end. I'm really glad I did it.