Morning Glory Arch

Jordan W., CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons; Image Size Adjusted

Massive sandstone arch tucked in a lush desert alcove, accessible via a scenic canyon trail with stream crossings and towering red rock walls.

General Information

Hours:
Open year-round; daylight hiking recommended
Fees:
Free access; no permits required for hiking
Canyoneering tours: Adults $138, Youth (10–12) $114
Pet Policy:
Dogs allowed; leash recommended due to crowds and poison ivy
Seasons:
Spring and Fall offer the best hiking conditions and stream flow
Location:
Negro Bill Canyon Trailhead, Moab, UT 84532
Website:
moabadventurecenter.com

How to Get There

From Moab, drive north on US-191, turn right onto UT-128, and continue 3 miles to the Grandstaff Canyon Trailhead on the right.

Overview

The Morning Glory Arch is one of the largest natural arches in the world, boasting a span of 243 feet and nestled in a secluded alcove at the end of Grandstaff Canyon. This geological marvel is reached via a 2.4-mile trail that winds through a vibrant desert canyon, complete with perennial stream crossings, towering sandstone cliffs, and lush riparian vegetation. The arch itself is suspended just 15 feet from the canyon wall, creating a dramatic and intimate setting that feels hidden from the world. Visitors often find the area beneath the arch cool and shaded, with water seeping from the rock and nourishing a pocket of greenery.

Accessible year-round, the hike to Morning Glory Arch is popular among families, hikers, and canyoneers alike. While the trail is relatively easy, it can become crowded during peak seasons, and hikers should be cautious of poison ivy along the route. For the more adventurous, guided canyoneering tours offer the chance to rappel from the arch itself, adding a thrilling perspective to this natural wonder. Whether approached on foot or by rope, Morning Glory Arch offers a breathtaking reward at the end of a scenic desert journey.

This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official tourism pages for the Morning Glory Arch, which are released under the https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/.

Diliff, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons; Image Size Adjusted