Delicate Arch

This 65-foot tall natural arch stands alone on a sandstone bowl overlooking the La Sal Mountains, carved from Entrada sandstone over millions of years. The 3-mile roundtrip hike crosses slickrock with no shade and minimal trail markers—follow the rock cairns carefully. The arch appears on Utah’s license plate and draws photographers from around the world, especially for sunset shots when the sandstone glows orange-red.

Access starts from Wolfe Ranch parking area off the main Arches National Park road. The trail gains 480 feet elevation and can be brutal in summer heat—start early and carry water. No water or facilities exist along the trail. The final approach requires walking along a narrow ledge with significant exposure. Winter ice can make the slickrock treacherous.

Utah's iconic 65-foot freestanding sandstone arch