One of the coolest things to do near Moab, Utah, is hiking up to Corona Arch. It’s a pretty easy hike that doesn’t need a lot of planning, and you can even bring your dog! At the end, you’ll see a massive sandstone arch that’s just as impressive as anything in Arches National Park.
If you want to avoid big crowds, bring your dog along, or just enjoy the amazing red rock scenery in Southern Utah, the Corona Arch trail is perfect. In this guide, I’ll tell you everything you need to know to have an awesome hike!
Corona Arch Trail Overview
- Length: 3 miles round trip
- Trail Type: Out and back
- Elevation Gain: 440 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Dogs: Allowed
- Permits/Fees: None
Best Time to Hike
The best times to hike to Corona Arch are in fall, winter, or spring because summer gets extremely hot, with temperatures over 100°F. Since there’s no shade, it’s smart to hike early in the morning or evening during the summer. Plus, sunrise and sunset are great times to take pictures of the arch!
Getting to the Trailhead
The Corona Arch trailhead is less than 20 minutes from Moab, making it easy to get to.
Here’s how to find it from Moab:
- 4 miles north on HWY 191 to Potash Road (State Road 279).
- Turn left on Potash Road and drive 10 miles west.
- Look for the “Corona Arch Trailhead” sign on the right and turn into the parking lot.
What to Bring?
There’s no water or restrooms at the trailhead, so come prepared. Bring a backpack with water, snacks, and anything you need for a hike. Since there’s no shade, make sure to wear sunscreen and dress for a desert hike!
About The Hike
Start hiking uphill from the trailhead until you reach the railroad tracks. Cross the tracks to stay on the trail. The trail is mostly easy to follow, with markers and rock cairns to guide you.
After about 10-15 minutes, you’ll pass a side trail to Pinto Arch, which adds about a mile if you want to see another arch.
A little further, you’ll come to a steep section with safety cables to help you climb. It’s not as tough as it looks, with steps in the rock and cables for support. After that, there’s a small 4-foot ladder to climb.
Soon, you’ll see Corona Arch in the distance! Walk under Bowtie Arch first, and then you’ll reach Corona Arch. Make sure to walk underneath it to see the amazing view through the arch.
Where to Camp?
Gold Bar Campground is across the road from the trailhead and offers campsites along the Colorado River. It’s first come, first serve, and only $10 per night. For more camping spots, check out guides to camping around Moab and finding free campsites.
