Overview: The Corona and Bowtie Arch via Corona Arch Trail in the Bureau of Land Management’s Bureau of Land Management Moab Field Office offers a spectacular desert hiking experience just outside Moab, Utah. Set within a dramatic landscape of red rock cliffs, slickrock domes, and open canyon views, this trail leads to two impressive natural sandstone arches—Corona Arch and the nearby Bowtie Arch. Known for its striking scenery and relatively short distance, the hike is popular with visitors seeking iconic desert views and a memorable geological landmark without committing to a long backcountry trek.

Trail Details:

Trail Length: Approximately 3 miles round trip
Duration: 1.5–3 hours
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Elevation Gain: Around 450 feet
Trail Type: Out-and-back

Key Features:

Desert Slickrock Terrain: The trail crosses open slickrock slabs and sandy washes, offering expansive views of surrounding cliffs and canyon walls. Painted trail markers guide hikers across the rock surfaces.

Short Scramble Sections: A few steeper sections include metal cables anchored into the rock to assist hikers. These features add a bit of adventure but are manageable for most visitors with steady footing.

Corona Arch: The highlight of the hike, Corona Arch is a massive freestanding sandstone arch with an impressive span and height. Visitors can walk beneath the arch and appreciate its scale from multiple angles.

Bowtie Arch: Located nearby, Bowtie Arch is a large pothole-style arch (technically a natural window) set high in the rock face. Though not directly accessible like Corona Arch, it is easily viewed from below and makes a striking companion landmark.

Colorado River Views: Portions of the trail provide scenic overlooks of the Colorado River corridor and the surrounding canyon landscape, enhancing the sense of openness and grandeur.

Seasonal Beauty: Spring and fall offer the most comfortable hiking conditions, while summer can be extremely hot. The red rock formations glow beautifully in early morning and late afternoon light.

Trailhead Information:

Starting Point: Corona Arch Trailhead along Potash Road (State Route 279), west of Moab
Parking: Designated parking area near the trailhead
Access Fees: No entrance fee is typically required, as the area is managed by the Bureau of Land Management

Best Season to Visit:

Spring: Mild temperatures and blooming desert plants create ideal hiking conditions.
Fall: Cooler weather and fewer crowds make for a pleasant experience.
Summer: Very hot temperatures; early morning hikes are strongly recommended.
Winter: Cooler and quieter, though occasional snow or ice may make slickrock sections slippery.

Trail Tips:

Footwear: Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip for slickrock and sandy sections.
Water: Bring plenty of water, especially in warm weather, as there is little shade along the trail.
Sun Protection: Use sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect against strong desert sun.
Safety: Be cautious on cable-assisted sections and avoid hiking during extreme heat.
Leave No Trace: Stay on marked routes and pack out all trash to protect the fragile desert environment.

Trail Highlights:

Iconic Red Rock Arch: A massive and photogenic natural arch accessible without technical climbing.
Accessible Adventure: Short distance with light scrambling adds excitement without being overly difficult.
Open Desert Views: Sweeping canyon scenery and expansive skies typical of southeastern Utah.
Geological Wonder: An up-close look at the erosional forces that shape sandstone into dramatic formations.

Additional Information:

Weather: Desert conditions can change quickly, with intense sun, occasional wind, and limited shade.
Trail Condition: Generally well-marked and maintained, though sandy and slickrock surfaces can be uneven.
Accessibility: Due to uneven slickrock, cables, and elevation changes, the trail is not suitable for strollers or those with mobility limitations.

The Corona and Bowtie Arch via Corona Arch Trail provides a rewarding desert hike that combines manageable distance with awe-inspiring scenery. It’s an excellent choice for visitors to the Moab area seeking dramatic red rock landscapes, light adventure, and one of Utah’s most impressive natural arches.

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