Sand Dune Arch
Location : Arches National Park, Utah
Total distance : 0.5 mile round-trip (out and back)
Net elevation gain : 14 ft
Peak elevation : 5,208 ft
Tree Cover : No tree cover. Sunscreen highly recommended.
Parking : Parking area near the trailhead.
Trailhead : Click here(https://shorturl.at/akxBE)
Landmark : Hike starts near the parking at the trailhead
Satellite map :
Click on the image for an interactive map
Terrain map :
Click on the image for an interactive map
Sand dune arch is probably the easiest hike with with most rewards in this area. The hike starts at the end of the parking lot with the trailhead marked by a sign. This is the paring location (https://shorturl.at/akxBE). Depending on when you go it might be hard to get a spot to park just like most other parking lots here so plan ahead and be patient.
The total hike one way is less than 0.5 miles with negligible elevation change and some shade making it very easy compared to most other hikes here. Make sure to wear boots with some ankle support if needed. It gets sandy as you get close to the arch but there is also good amount of shade near the arch most of the day.
At this fork keep right to continue to Sand dune arch. Left fork takes you to Broken arch. Since you succeeded in getting a parking spot might as well check out both if the situation allows and add one more memory to your list.
As you may have realized this hike has many things in common with most other hikes in Arches national park(https://shorturl.at/rANT3) and Canyonlands national park(https://shorturl.at/cmE29). Along with gorgeous views of nature's art the dangers and fragile living soil are part of that common theme.
Heat strokes and heat exhaustion are not unheard of here, I witnessed someone being carried back on a stretcher when I was hiking in summer. With modern technology and choppers we get help faster than ever before but it is our responsibility to ensure we are at a good fitness level and we are well prepared to hike in the hot or cold or icy conditions so never take safety lightly. Carry plenty of water.
I see two dogs kissing in this photo, I cannot unsee that now! This is the sand dune arch, it is sandy around there and nice and cool in summers. This is a good spot to take a break and some some time with company before you move on to your next adventure. Hike for fun and fitness... Stay safe and happy hiking!
Gallery
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