Delicate Arch Trail

"Iconic Utah Arch"

Delicate Arch is iconic in Utah; this is where the Olympic torch first burned in Utah and it’s on many of our license plates; oh yeah, and the Incredible Hulk had an action scene at this site.  Standing under Delicate Arch is amazing and I would suggest that every family try to experience this.  

A few things to consider before you attempt this hike (1) there are some steep sections on the trail, you do have to be fairly fit – especially if you’re the one carrying the 3 year old.  (2) If you are afraid of heights, note that there are some steep drop-offs.  This is especially evident if you choose to stand directly underneath Delicate Arch. (3) this hike gets crowded.  You may not get the opportunity to snap a picture of the arch without a handful of strangers standing around it.  Off-season hikes to Delicate Arch are ideal to avoid the crowds, and the summer heat.

The 3 mile round trip trail begins at the Wolf Ranch parking area where you can see the cabin of John Wesley Wolfe, an early settler.  The trail leads across a bridge where you will see a sign pointing to “Rock Art” where you can view Ute Indian pictographs.  If you have the time, this short detour is definitely worth it.  

The first part of the trail is fairly easy along dry desert landscapes with only a couple of switchbacks and hills to climb.  My 3 year old handled this part of the hike herself, only distracted by all of the pretty quartz rocks along the trail.  

The next section of the hike climbs up a moderately steep slickrock face.  This part of the trail is marked with rock cairns (those piles of rocks that lead the way).  This is the hard part of the trail if you happen to be carrying a 3 year old while your 7 year old starts to drag.  So take your time, rest, turn around and enjoy the view, sit down and drink some water and have a snack.  It will be worth it.   Of course as I climbed along the rock with my 3 year old hanging to my back, I did hear several downhill hikers exclaim that I was crazy. However, it was January 1 and a great way to start a new exercise routine.  

Once you reach the top of the slickrock climb, the trail meanders along washes, around trees, more slick rock, and some powdery sand. This section is fairly flat and safe making it a great time to put the 3 year old down to explore on her own.  Delicate Arch is still not visible at this point, but the trail starts meandering to the north face of the arch’s bowl.  Here the trail is icy in the off-season with a steep drop-off so take your time.  After a short distance you round the bend to look down on to Delicate Arch, free standing and awe-inspiring. You should be standing on a fairly safe ledge outside of the arch’s bowl.  This is a good place to stay if you are particularly afraid of heights.  However, if you feel comfortable you can step onto the “bowl” and make your way under the arch.  Yes, I’m crazy and took my 3 kids along the bowl.  We just did it slow and steady, always making sure of our footing and carrying the 3 year old along.  

I highly recommend this hike to families who understand the inherent dangers who are prepared for a relatively steep climb, and can handle the steep heights.  My 7 year old was so proud of herself as she made her way down to sit at the base of the arch.  I’m glad she experienced this firsthand because pictures just can’t do this arch justice – you have to stand at the base in order to feel its beauty.