Delicate Arch Trail
A 3-mile round trip climbing about 630 feet across open slickrock to the most famous freestanding arch in the world. Short but exposed — there is almost no shade and the rock radiates heat, so timing matters more than distance.
By The US Hikers editorial team · Last verified July 5, 2026
- Distance
- 3.0 mi RT
- Elevation gain
- 629 ft
- Permit
- Not required
- Best season
- Spring and fall; sunset is popular but crowded
Trail overview
From the Wolfe Ranch trailhead the path crosses a footbridge, then climbs a long, open slab of slickrock with little shade before a short ledge traverse opens suddenly onto Delicate Arch. It is 1.5 miles each way with roughly 630 feet of gain.
There are no railings at the arch and the bowl below it is steep, so keep an eye on children and stay back from edges, especially at busy sunset.
Timed-entry reservations
During the busy season Arches requires a timed-entry reservation to drive into the park, booked in advance on recreation.gov. This is separate from any trail; it simply controls when you can enter. Dates and hours change year to year, so confirm on the official Arches page before your trip.
Heat and timing
This is a deceptively serious hike in summer: open slickrock, no water, and temperatures that can top 100°F. Go at first light or in the couple of hours before sunset, carry more water than feels necessary, and skip midday in the warm months.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a reservation to hike Delicate Arch?
Not for the trail itself, but Arches National Park requires a timed-entry reservation to enter the park during the busy season. Book it on recreation.gov.
How long is the Delicate Arch hike?
3 miles round trip with about 630 feet of elevation gain — usually 2 to 3 hours including time at the arch.
Is Delicate Arch a hard hike?
Moderate. The distance is short but the open slickrock climb and lack of shade make heat the real challenge.
Make it a trip
Where to stay, what else to do and how to build an itinerary around Arches National Park.
Plan a Moab & Arches trip on Roam StatesSources
Primary sources only for facts that change (fees, permits, closures): nps.gov, fs.usda.gov and official recreation.gov permit pages. We stamp every guide with a "last verified" date and re-check seasonal figures each year.