October 28, 2022

By Tim Briese

3.3 miles, 600’ elevation gain, 1:30 roundtrip time

On my fall hiking trip to Utah I arrived in the Moab area early in the afternoon, about 130 pm, and thought that a short scenic hike was in order. I had not hiked to iconic Delicate Arch, which is colorfully featured on Utah license plates, in many years and decided a visit was due. I entered Arches National Park on this beautiful clear day and drove to the trailhead.

nice fall colors in arches national park

This hike has become so popular over the years that parking is often a problem in spite of the fact that the parking lot was expanded a while back to accommodate nearly 200 vehicles, but on this late October day it was only about two thirds full. I embarked on the trail and soon headed up a long slickrock slope to the east.

the trail goes across this bridge at the beginning of the hike

the trail goes up this slickrock slope

Most hikers were heading back at this time of day. I briskly walked up the slope, followed the trail northeast, and hiked along a comfortable ledge just before reaching the arch.

the route goes along this ledge

The moment is quite dramatic when one comes around a corner and the spectacular arch abruptly pops into view. I meandered around for a while taking photos of it on this gorgeous bluebird day.

delicate arch

Then I hiked back down to my truck and headed to Monticello for the night.