Park Avenue and Courthouse Towers

Massive monoliths and towering walls and views of the nearby La Sal Mountains

General Information
Length:
1.8 miles round trip
Elevation Gain:
298 feet
Pet Policy:
Pets NOT allowed on trails
Seasons:
All year, though very hot in summer
Trailhead:
Two points along the scenic drive, 1.3 miles apart: north, south
Location:
Website:
Rating:
5.0

After passing the visitor center and climbing steeply along switchback roads, the first major area of the park you'll see is Park Avenue and the Courthouse Towers area. You can walk among massive monoliths and towering walls and see views of the nearby La Sal Mountains.

The sheer walls of this canyon reminded early visitors of buildings lining a big city street. The trail to the viewpoint is flat and paved. Beyond the viewpoint, the trail descends steeply into the spectacular canyon and continues one mile (1.6 km) to Courthouse Towers. For a roundtrip hike, retrace your steps along the trail rather than walking along the road.

Enjoy a 360-degree view from a relatively flat sandstone bench. See the La Sal Mountains to the east and distinctive formations like Three Gossips, Sheep Rock, and The Organ in the Courthouse Towers area. Look to the horizon for a view of Balanced Rock and The Windows Section.

This article uses material from nps.gov "Arches National Park"