The natural world is a complete package of unmatched beauty – certainly when it comes to comparing man-made buildings and, majestic natural structures are created over time.
However, natural structures keep changing their visibility over time. Whether it’s for better or worse, it is clear that they will not remain the same. But, seeing this constant change in nature-made formations is also a thrilling part of enjoying the natural beauty.
One such natural structure is Mesa Arch, in Utah.
A Wonderful Natural Formation
One of the amazing structures that nature is able to provide mankind is the Mesa Arch in Canyonlands National Park.
Mesa Arch trail is one of the most exciting hiking places in the world. The Mesa Arch trailhead is situated in the Island in the Sky district, about 6 miles north of Grand View Point and 7 miles south of Island in the Sky Visitor Center.
This arch in Canyonlands National Park faces the sun early in the morning during its rise. The reflection of the sun’s morning light on the edges of this porthole arch brings the orange rock alive and beautifies it even more.
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An Incredible Location for Photography
The unique formation of this landmark makes it one of the best locations to click some amazing pictures. The right time to capture the remarkable beauty of Mesa Arch is early in the morning when the sun hits it. The colorful rays of the sun highlight its features to the next level, leaving an extraordinary impact.
The Mesa Arch is one of the places around Canyonland National Park that photographers love to visit frequently.
Each year, thousands of people from different regions visit this special place to witness its raw beauty.
Most people suggest going there early, before the sunrise, to capture its unmatched beauty. This is to make sure that you get the right spot to click the best shots of the arch.
Moreover, the changing clouds and light over the arch make it a perfect photography spot throughout the day. You will see various lights and textures on this stone arch from different angles and perspectives.
Some people find it challenging to reach the arch before sunrise. After all, sleep is awesome. I would say that sacrificing your sleep to reach there on time would be really worth it.
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Views from the Mesa Arch
Perched right on a cliff edge, Mesa Arch Canyonlands offers some really great views from the arch. Some spectacular views that you can enjoy from this point are as follows:
Mesa Arch Sunrise
Catching a Mesa Arch sunrise view is a must if you’re visiting Canyonlands. The sun rises behind the arch and highlights its underside every morning. The trip to this unique destination is simply incomplete without capturing the beauty of Mesa Arch sunrise. To enjoy the unmatched view of the rising sun, make sure to get there before the sunrise.
Mesa Arch Sunset
At sunset, the sun is usually behind the view through the arch and lights up the gold & red sandstone in the valley. It also highlights the peaks of the La Sal Mountains in the distance. Overall, visiting Mesa Arch in the evening can be a great end to a day of exploring Canyonlands National Park.
Rock Formations
Mesa Arch is also known for its striking rock formations all around. You can see unique constructions, such as pinnacles, spires, natural bridges, canyons, and buttes. If you see closely, you can enjoy the view of Buck Canyon, Woman Arch, and the La Sal Mountains in the distance behind the arch.
Colorado and Green Rivers
Another breathtaking view that you will see from Mesa Arch is the Colorado River and Green River. Both of these rivers are known to carve out the canyons of Canyonlands National Park. Also, they divide the national park into two sections, both ensuring a picturesque view from the top of the arch.
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Right Time to Visit Mesa Arch
This spectacular stone arch is open year-round. However, the Fall and Spring are the most popular times to visit the place as the temperature is comfortable during these seasons.
Consider visiting Mesa Arch Canyonlands in the chillier times between November and March to avoid crowds.
April to June and September to October is the most crowded time. On the other hand, crowds are non-existent from December to February as the temperature is below freezing.
Although it’s significantly;y colder, consider visiting Mesa Arch Canyonlands in the chillier times between November and March to avoid crowds.
Planning a trip to Mesa Archduring the winter can help you get some incredible shots with snow on the arch.
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Places to Stay Near Mesa Arch
Most visitors to Mesa Arch Canyonlands prefer staying in the nearby town of Moab. The easy accessibility and small-town feel make it a top pick.
Since the place features multiple accommodation options, you may choose any hotel that meets your needs and budget.
Hotels near Mesa Arch
1. Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Moab
Situated at a distance of 9.2 km from the arch, this hotel is just a 5-minute drive from Arches National Park. It offers facilities like free parking, free WiFi, an outdoor pool, and air conditioning to ensure guests’ comfort.
2. Red Cliffs Lodge
Only 10.3 km from Mesa Arch, this beautiful property is set against the picturesque backdrop of towering red cliffs and the Colorado River. One of the best things about this lodge is that it offers a homey feel.
3. SpringHill Suites by Marriott Moab
This is another fantastic accommodation option in Moab. The 3-star hotel features free WiFi, express check-in & check-out, an outdoor swimming pool, and a fitness center. Also, each room of the property boasts mountain views.
4. Moab Springs Ranch
Only 11 km from Mesa Arch, this facility provides beautiful accommodation with free private parking, a garden, a restaurant, and a seasonal outdoor swimming pool.
5. Aarchway Inn
Located off Highway 191 and just 10.1 km from the arch, Aarchway Inn is known for spacious rooms, free WiFi, and free shuttle services for guests. The property also has a basketball court.
6. Element Moab
Situated within 11 km of the arch, this hotel offers comfortable accommodation to guests with free parking. The property boasts an outdoor swimming pool with a stunning view in the backdrop.
Camp Sites near Mesa Arch
If you love to camp, you will find multiple camping sites at the destination. Some of the top camping spots include:
- Sand Flats Recreation Area: 0.9 miles away from the arch
- Moab Rim RV Campark: 2.2 miles away from the arch
- Sun Outdoors North Moab: 2.3 miles away from the arch
- Slick Rock Campground: 2.4 miles away from the arch
- Grandstaff Campground: 1.8 miles away from the arch
What to Pack for Mesa Arch Trail
Every visitor needs to have proper essentials to make their hike memorable, comfortable, and safe. When it comes to Mesa Arch hiking essentials, you may pack as many items as possible. But, here’s a list of things that no one should forget to take with them.
- High-quality hiking sandals or shoes
- Hiking shorts
- Long or short-sleeved t-shirts
- Drying Towels
- Hiking poles for support
- A flashlight
- Sunglasses
- A sunhat
- Sunscreen
- A camera
- Enough drinkable water
- Snacks
- A reusable water bottle
- Bug spray
- First-aid kit
So, while packing for the Mesa Arch trail, keep these essentials in your backpack.
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Things You Must Know When Planning a Visit to Mesa Arch
Before you plan to visit Mesa Arch, there are a few things that you need to know to ensure a smooth experience. Some of these critical points include:
- Mesa Arch is not wheelchair accessible.
- Visitors are not allowed to take their pets with them on the trail.
- As the Mesa Arch parking area is limited, it can fill up in no time, and you may not get a parking spot.
How to Get to Mesa Arch Trail
Located in an area called Island in the Sky, getting to Mesa Arch is no challenge. If your hotel is in Moab, it will take less than an hour to reach the Canyonlands Park Entrance.
Once you get there, keep driving for around 10 more minutes to get to the Mesa Arch Parking area.
This small Mesa Arch parking lot has space for up to 40 vehicles. If you arrive early, i.e., around 45 minutes before sunrise, you will get a parking spot easily.
Once you’re ready, start hiking on the Mesa Arch trail. It will take around 15 minutes to reach the arch from the parking lot.
Mesa Arch Reviews
If you go through the reviews of people who have been to the Mesa Arch, you will come across many positive reviews. You will be able to read mostly positive things about this particular section of Canyonland National Park.
It seems almost every visitor agrees that this place is truly magical.
Even people with an impressive travel history to various national parks across the globe have ranked Mesa Arch as one of the top arches they have witnessed with their own eyes.
For the skeptics, a trip to the arch can definitely change their perspective. The picturesque view that Mesa Arch offers its visitors is enough to change anyone’s mind.
Moreover, seeing it yourself is the only thing one can do to witness the magnificence of this unique place.
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Visit Mesa Arch for the Unmatched Beauty
Mesa Arch is an easy and quick hike with breathtaking views of canyons, Washer Woman Arch, and the La Sal Mountains. The place is a little bit crowded due to the ease of hiking.
That means you might have to wait a while to snap incredible shots of the arch from different angles. Moreover, the picturesque view at the end is worth the wait.
If you want to validate the information available in this article, consider taking a trip to Canyonland National Park! Get there for your next vacation and plan a hike to Mesa Arch to make the most of your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to hike to Mesa Arch?
Mesa Arch is an easy hike that you can cover in about 20 to 30 minutes. It is just 0.8 kilometers or 0.5 miles long (the total distance for the entire hike). That means it can take you up to half an hour to hike to this spectacular arch and back.
Can I walk across Mesa Arch?
Walking across Mesa Arch is on the top of most tourists’ to-do lists. Though visitors are allowed to walk on the top of this beautiful formation of nature, you need to keep in mind that it can be very windy. One misstep can put your life in danger!
Therefore, it is suggested to be attentive and careful if you want to walk on the top of Mesa Arch.
Are there any nearby attractions to Mesa Arch?
If you’re visiting Mesa Arch, there are several other must-see attractions nearby this spectacular destination. Though the list is expansive, some of the closest ones are as follows:
– Aztec Butte Trail – a unique hike in the Island in the Sky region of Canyonlands National Park.
– Island in the Sky Visitor Center – the most famous section of Canyonlands.
– Green River Overlook – a short hike in Canyonlands National Park.
– Arches National Park – a national park in north Moab in Utah.
– The Needles – a division of Canyonlands National Park that features domes, white & red eroded sandstone pillars, narrow canyons, and arches.
– Whale Rock – is a beautiful trail near Moab, Utah.
So, if you’re in Canyonlands National Park, consider exploring all of these attractions to make the most of your visit to this place.
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