Located in the central portion of Arches National Park, Utah, the Broken Arch and Sand Dune Arch trails offer two short but rewarding hikes that can easily be combined into a single outing.
Both trails lead to impressive sandstone formations hidden within a landscape of desert vegetation, sandstone fins, and narrow sandy corridors. Because of their relatively short distance and easy terrain, these hikes are great for anyone looking to explore arches with a quick and easy, but rewarding hike.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about hiking the Broken Arch and Sand Dune Arch trails, including trail details, what to expect along the route, and practical tips for planning your visit.
Broken Arch & Sand Dune Arch Trails – At a Glance
Two easy hikes that can be combined – Broken Arch and Sand Dune Arch are located close together and can easily be visited during the same stop.
Two very different environments – Broken Arch sits in an open desert basin, while Sand Dune Arch is hidden within a narrow sandstone corridor filled with deep sand.
Great short hikes in Arches National Park – Both trails are relatively short and accessible, making them good options for visitors looking for an easy hike.
Close to Devils Garden and the campground area – The trailheads are located near Devils Garden Campground, along the northern section of the park road.
Trail Difficulty: Very Easy
Time Required: 30 minutes – 1 hour combined
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Broken Arch & Sand Dune Arch Trails: Location, Map, and How to Get There
The Broken Arch & Sand Dune Arch Trails are located in Arches National Park, in eastern Utah, just outside the town of Moab. The trailhead is a very short distance from the park entrance, along the main scenic road that runs north–south through the park.
Arches National Park itself lies about 5 miles (8 km) north of Moab and is easily accessed via U.S. Highway 191, making it one of the most convenient national parks in Utah to reach.
Driving Times to Arches National Park
- Moab: 10–15 minutes
- Canyonlands National Park: 45 minutes
- Capitol Reef National Park: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Salt Lake City: 3 hours 45 minutes
- Las Vegas: 6 hours 30 minutes
These times assume clear weather and normal traffic conditions.
If you need to book a rental vehicle for your hiking excursion, we highly recommend using Discover Cars to get the best rates on your rental in Utah, Nevada and Arizona.
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Broken Arch and Sand Dune Arch – Trailhead Access, Parking & Fees
Trailhead Location
The Broken Arch and Sand Dune Arch trails are located in the northern portion of Arches National Park, about 17 miles (27 km) from the park entrance (link to Google Maps).
To reach the trailheads, follow the Arches Scenic Drive through the park. Shortly before reaching the Devils Garden area, turn into the Sand Dune Arch / Broken Arch parking area.
The road is fully paved and suitable for all standard vehicles.
Trailhead parking lot
A moderate-sized paved parking lot serves both the Sand Dune Arch and Broken Arch trails.
Because Sand Dune Arch is located only a few minutes from the parking area, many visitors stop here briefly while driving through the park. As a result, parking turnover tends to be relatively quick compared to some of the park’s longer hikes.
During busy months, however, the lot can still fill periodically between late morning and early afternoon.
Most visitors walk only to Sand Dune Arch, meaning the trail to Broken Arch often feels noticeably quieter, even on busy days.
Facilities
Vault toilets are available near the parking area.
Trail Opening Hours
Both trails are accessible year-round and generally remain open 24 hours a day, weather permitting.
Entrance Fees for Arches National Park
Anyone visiting Arches National Park, whether to hike, drive the scenic road, or explore its iconic arches, must pay the applicable entrance fee to the National Park Service.
Entrance Fees (per vehicle, valid 7 days)
Private vehicle: $30
Motorcycle: $25
Individual (on foot, bicycle, etc.): $15
Annual Pass Options
Southeast Utah Parks Pass: $55 – valid for one year and covers Arches, Canyonlands National Park, and Hovenweep National Monument.
America the Beautiful Pass: $80 – valid for one year at all U.S. National Parks and more than 2,000 federal recreation sites nationwide. This is the best value if you plan to visit multiple national parks within a year.
Passes can be purchased at the park entrance station, at the Visitor Center, or online through the USGS website or via the REI store.
—> Most visitors exploring Utah’s “Mighty 5” parks (Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion) should strongly consider the America the Beautiful Pass: it saves money and avoids the hassle of buying separate entry fees at each park.
Broken Arch & Sand Dune Arch Trails – Trail Stats, Difficulty and Map
Distance: 1.5 miles (2.4 km)
Route Type: Out & Back
Elevation gain: 165 ft / 50 m (cumulative elevation gain)
AllTrails rating (2026): 4.7, 1800 ratings
Duration: Most people complete the full trail in 30-40 minutes
Trail difficulty level assessment:
Very Easy | Easy | Moderate | Moderately Challenging | Challenging
Overall, the Broken Arch & Sand Dune Arch Trails are best described as Very Easy. Although there is occasional sandy terrain, the trails are very short with little to no elevation gain.
Not an AllTrails member yet? We highly recommend signing up for either their free or paid membership plans. The free plan allows you to find new trails and plan routes but it can only be used while hiking if you have access to mobile data. The paid membership plan (AllTrails+) allows you to download trail maps for offline use and provides live progress updates and off-route notifications.
If you are still uncertain – you should know that the All Trails mobile application was voted the 2023 iPhone App of the Year by Apple.
We find that AllTrails is a great tool to have when hiking, particularly for assisting with navigation when the trail is hard to locate and to help monitor your progress along the trail, which helps estimate how much time you’ll need to complete the trail.
Broken Arch & Sand Dune Arch Trails – Trail Description and What to Expect
Sand Dune Arch
From the parking area, a short sandy trail leads toward Sand Dune Arch, weaving between tall sandstone fins that gradually narrow into a shaded corridor.
Within just a few minutes, the landscape changes dramatically as the path enters a deep sandy canyon surrounded by towering sandstone walls. The ground here is covered in soft sand, which gives the area its name and creates a completely different hiking environment compared to the slickrock terrain found elsewhere in the park.
The arch itself sits tucked between the fins, partially hidden within the narrow canyon. Because the walls block much of the direct sunlight, this area often feels cooler and more shaded than other parts of Arches National Park.
Many visitors stop here briefly for photos before returning to the parking lot, but the soft sand and enclosed space also make this a fun area to explore and linger, especially for families with children.
Broken Arch
To reach Broken Arch, return towards the parking area and follow the connecting trail that heads across a wide desert basin toward the sandstone formations visible in the distance.
Unlike Sand Dune Arch, which is hidden between rock fins, the Broken Arch trail crosses open desert terrain dotted with juniper trees, desert shrubs, and scattered sandstone formations.
Eventually, you’ll reach thicker and denser vegetation, and, after roughly 1 km (0.6 mi), the trail reaches Broken Arch, a large freestanding arch that rises above the surrounding landscape.
Despite its name, Broken Arch is not actually broken. The arch simply contains a large crack along the top of the formation, giving it the appearance of being split. Visitors can walk directly beneath the arch and explore the surrounding area, which offers wide views of the surrounding desert and nearby sandstone fins.
Because most visitors stop only at Sand Dune Arch, the Broken Arch trail often feels noticeably quieter, even during busy periods in the park.
Optional: Extend the Hike to Tapestry Arch
Most visitors turn around after reaching Broken Arch, but those looking to extend their hike can continue along the trail toward Tapestry Arch. The path continues across the same open desert terrain, gradually approaching the sandstone fins that form the Devil’s Garden area. After a short additional walk, the trail reaches Tapestry Arch, a smaller formation tucked into a rock wall.
Unlike Broken Arch, which stands as a large freestanding arch in the open desert, Tapestry Arch is more subtle and enclosed, forming a shallow alcove in the sandstone wall. While it lacks the dramatic scale of Broken Arch, it offers a quieter setting and a different perspective on the surrounding landscape.
Park Avenue Trail – Additional Details and Hiking Tips
Canine companions: Dogs are not permitted on the Broken Arch or Sand Dune Arch trails. Pets are only allowed in designated areas of Arches National Park, primarily on paved roads, parking areas, and campgrounds. They are prohibited on all hiking trails within the park.
Trail environment: The Broken Arch and Sand Dune Arch trails pass through two very different desert environments. Sand Dune Arch is hidden within a narrow corridor between tall sandstone fins, where deep sand and shaded walls create a cooler and more enclosed atmosphere. In contrast, the trail to Broken Arch crosses an open desert basin dotted with juniper trees and desert shrubs, with wide views toward surrounding sandstone formations.
Route signage: The trails are well-defined and easy to follow. Clear paths lead from the parking area to Sand Dune Arch and Broken Arch, and occasional signs mark the junctions between the trails. Navigation is straightforward, and most hikers will have no difficulty staying on route.
Trail surface / Technical aspects: The trail to Sand Dune Arch follows a sandy path between sandstone fins and includes sections of deep, soft sand. The Broken Arch trail crosses packed dirt and sandy desert terrain with occasional rock sections. No scrambling or technical hiking is required.
Slope and effort: Elevation gain along these trails is minimal. The terrain is mostly flat with gentle undulations across the desert landscape, making the hike comfortable for most visitors.
Previous Hiking Experience: These trails are suitable for almost all visitors, including families with children. The distances are short, and the terrain is manageable for hikers with basic fitness levels.
Cell Service: Cell reception in this part of the park is inconsistent. Some visitors may receive a weak signal near the parking area, but coverage can disappear farther along the trails.
Leave No Trace: Stay on the designated trail to protect fragile desert soils and vegetation. Avoid climbing on sandstone formations and pack out all trash to help preserve the landscape.
Bugs: Insects are usually minimal. Occasional flies may appear during warmer months, but mosquitoes are uncommon in this dry desert environment.
Equipment: No special gear is required. Comfortable walking shoes or light hiking shoes are recommended. Bring water and sun protection, especially during warmer months.
Weather and Exposure: The Broken Arch trail is mostly exposed to the sun, while Sand Dune Arch offers some shade within the sandstone fins. After rain, sandy sections may become muddy, and slickrock surfaces can be slippery.
Current Trail Conditions: Check the National Park Service alerts page for Arches National Park before your visit for updates on weather conditions, trail advisories, or temporary closures.
Hiking Packing List
All Trails subscription – This comes in really handy for areas with little or no cell reception, as the annual subscription allows you to download trail maps for offline use.
External Battery – If you are using your phone to track your progress along the trail or to help with navigation, you certainly don’t want your phone to die on you. That’s especially true in the unlikely event that you might get hurt or need assistance.
Hiking poles – These can be particularly useful in steep trails or muddy/boggy trail conditions.
Water Filter Bottle – The Life Straw bottle is an advanced water bottle with a filter that not only improves water taste but more importantly filters out bacteria and parasites, chemicals and microplastics.
Headlamp – very practical and a smart choice if you plan to start your hike before sunrise or finish it after sunset.
Best Time to Hike the Broken Arch & Sand Dune Arch Trails
Early Morning (Best for Broken Arch)
Early morning is one of the best times to hike to Broken Arch, particularly during warmer months. The open desert terrain along the trail receives direct sunlight later in the day, so starting early allows you to enjoy cooler temperatures and softer lighting across the surrounding sandstone formations.
Morning light can also be especially beautiful in this area, highlighting the desert landscape’s red and orange tones.
Midday (Good for Sand Dune Arch)
Unlike many trails in Arches National Park, Sand Dune Arch can actually be pleasant to visit during the middle of the day. The arch sits tucked between tall sandstone fins that block much of the direct sunlight, creating a cooler and more shaded environment compared to the open desert elsewhere in the park.
Because of this natural shade, Sand Dune Arch often feels more comfortable than many other trails during the hottest part of the day.
Late Afternoon (Quieter Conditions)
Late afternoon can also be a good time to visit these trails. Many visitors begin leaving the park later in the day, which can make parking easier and the trails slightly quieter.
Seasonal Considerations
Spring and fall generally offer the best overall hiking conditions, with moderate temperatures and comfortable weather for exploring the park.
Summer temperatures can become extremely hot, especially on exposed trails such as the route to Broken Arch. During these months, early-morning or late-afternoon hikes are recommended.
Winter visits tend to be quieter and can offer beautiful scenery when snow dusts the surrounding sandstone formations, though temperatures may be cold, and occasional icy patches can appear along the trail.
Are the Broken Arch & Sand Dune Arch Trails Worth It?
We definitely think so! The Broken Arch and Sand Dune Arch trails offer two very different hiking experiences within a short distance of each other, making them an excellent stop while exploring Arches National Park.
These trails are also a good option in the middle of the day, even in summer. While the Broken Arch trail is mostly exposed, the overall distance is short, and Sand Dune Arch provides a cooler shaded environment between the sandstone fins.
Why You Might Enjoy It:
– Two easy hikes that can be combined into a single outing
– Very different landscapes within a short distance
– A great midday stop when temperatures are high elsewhere in the park
– Broken Arch often feels quieter than some of the park’s more famous hikes
Why It Might Not Be for You:
– The arches are smaller and less iconic than Delicate Arch or Landscape Arch
– Sand Dune Arch can feel crowded due to its proximity to the parking area (though it wasn’t when we visited midday)
– The Broken Arch trail is exposed to the sun during warmer months
Want to Explore More Hikes in Arches National Park?
We’ve also created a complete guide to the Best Hikes in Arches National Park, covering everything from short walks to longer arch-hunting adventures. It includes practical tips for planning your visit, navigating the scenic drive, and choosing the right trails based on time and difficulty.
Below are a few other hikes in the park that we highly recommend:
The Windows & Double Arch
The Windows Section is one of the easiest and most rewarding places to explore arches up close. A short trail leads to North Window, South Window, and Turret Arch, while a nearby path reaches the impressive Double Arch, where two massive stone spans rise dramatically from the desert floor. The trails here are short and mostly easy, making this area ideal for visitors looking for big scenery without a long hike.
For more details and hiking tips, see our Windows Section & Double Arch Hiking Guide.
Devils Garden (Landscape Arch & Beyond)
The Devils Garden Trail is the longest and most varied hike in Arches. Even the easy first section leads to Landscape Arch, one of the longest natural arches in the world. Beyond that, the trail continues toward several additional arches and increasingly rugged terrain. Many visitors hike only the first portion, which provides an excellent introduction to the area’s dramatic sandstone formations.
For route options and trail details, see our Devil’s Garden Hiking Guide.
Delicate Arch Trail
If there’s one hike most visitors associate with Arches National Park, it’s the trail to Delicate Arch. This moderately challenging hike climbs steadily across open slickrock before reaching the park’s most iconic sandstone formation. Unlike arches that can be viewed from roadside pullouts, Delicate Arch requires a bit of effort to reach, but the reward is standing face-to-face with one of the most recognizable natural landmarks in the American Southwest. The final reveal of the arch, framed by the distant La Sal Mountains, is one of the most memorable moments in the park.
For trail details and visiting tips, see our Delicate Arch Trail Hiking Guide.
Where to Stay Near Arches National Park
Unlike some national parks with limited lodging near the entrance, Arches National Park sits just five minutes from the town of Moab, which serves as the region’s main base.
Moab offers a wide range of accommodations: from national hotel chains to boutique adventure lodges. Staying in town makes it easy to:
- Enter Arches early for sunrise hikes
- Return midday to escape the heat
- Explore Canyonlands or Dead Horse Point without relocating
- Enjoy restaurants and services in the evening
Below are three well-located, reliable options at different mid-range price points and styles.
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Moab
Best for: Comfortable, reliable mid-range stay with strong value
La Quinta offers a familiar, dependable experience with spacious rooms, a large outdoor pool, and complimentary breakfast. It’s located along the main highway entering Moab, about 10 minutes from the Arches entrance.
Why it works well:
- Good value relative to other Moab hotels
- Large parking area (useful for larger vehicles or road trips)
- Easy access in and out of town
This is a solid choice for families, road trippers, or anyone prioritizing comfort and practicality.
Best for: Modern amenities close to Arches
Wingate is one of the newer properties in Moab and sits slightly north of town, closer to the entrance of Arches. Rooms are modern and well-appointed, and amenities include a pool, fitness center, and free breakfast.
Why it stands out:
- Shorter drive to Arches (ideal for early starts)
- Newer build with a contemporary feel
- Reliable comfort without boutique pricing
If your priority is minimizing drive time into the park, this is one of the most convenient options.
Best for: Outdoor-focused travelers and an adventure vibe
Field Station blends hotel comfort with a gear-friendly, adventure-oriented design. The property includes communal gathering spaces, bike storage, and a laid-back atmosphere that caters to hikers, climbers, and mountain bikers.
Why people love it:
- Clean, minimalist rooms
- Social outdoor areas
- Feels aligned with the Moab adventure culture
It’s ideal if you want something more distinctive than a traditional chain hotel without sacrificing comfort.
A Quick Planning Tip
Moab fills quickly during spring and fall, especially March through May and October, so booking in advance is strongly recommended. Summer availability is often easier, but rates can still be high during peak travel periods.
Park Avenue Trail – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take to hike Broken Arch and Sand Dune Arch?
Most visitors can explore both arches in 30-40 minutes. The trails are short and easy to follow, though you may want to allow extra time for photos and exploring around the formations.
Are the Broken Arch and Sand Dune Arch trails difficult?
No. Both hikes are considered very easy to easy, with minimal elevation gain and well-defined trails. They are suitable for most visitors, including families with children.
Which arch is better: Broken Arch or Sand Dune Arch?
Both arches offer very different experiences. Sand Dune Arch is tucked between sandstone fins and surrounded by deep sand, creating a shaded and enclosed environment. Broken Arch sits in a wide open desert basin and is a larger freestanding formation that can be walked beneath.
Can you visit Broken Arch and Sand Dune Arch in one stop?
Yes. The trails share the same parking area, and many visitors combine both hikes during a single stop while driving through the park..
Is Broken Arch actually broken?
Despite its name, Broken Arch is not broken. The arch simply contains a large crack along the top of the formation, which gives it the appearance of being split.
Are drones allowed?
No. Drones are strictly prohibited anywhere within Arches National Park.
Explore More Utah National & State Park Guides
Continue exploring Utah with these detailed guides:
Zion National Park Guide
Bryce Canyon National Park
Goblin Valley State Park Guide
Monument Valley Guide
Canyonlands National Park
Dead Horse Point State Park
Photography Gear
If you like our photography, you might be interested in some of the gear we use to shoot our travel and hiking destinations.
Camera Body – Nikon Z 6ii Fx-series Mirrorless Body
Main Lens – NIKON 24-120mm F/4G ED VR AF-S
Zoom Lens – Sigma 745-306 150-600mm f/5-6.3
Polarizing filters – Urth Circular Polarizing (CPL)
Camera Tripod – K&F Concept 64-inch Camera Tripod
Mini-tripod – Lammcou Flexible Camera Tripod
Camera/hiking backpack – Vanguard Alta Rise 48 Backpack
Universal Travel Adapter – VYLEE Universal International Power Travel Plug
Other Travel Essentials
Travel Insurance
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e-Sim cards
Airalo is the world’s first and largest eSIM store with eSIM plans for 200+ countries and regions worldwide. With Airalo eSIMs, travellers can get connected the moment they land at their destination and avoid nasty data roaming charges
eSIMS are a sustainable alternative to single-use SIM cards – they are 100% digital, require less energy to produce and be re-used rather than disposed of.
Car Rentals
Discover Cars is our go-to website for car rentals. We almost always find our preferred rate there.
Transfer from Airport
Welcome Pickups is our favourite private transfer service, which you can pre-book at a fixed price. Currently available in 220 cities all over the world (mostly in Europe, but with several major cities in Asia, the Middle East and the US).
Kiwitaxi is another private transfer service – we haven’t tried it yet, but it’s currently available in a few more countries (102 as of 2024).
Hotels and Accommodations (coming soon)
Photography Prints
If you found this blog useful, you can help support our blog by purchasing low-cost digital prints. Printed physical prints are also available for purchase.
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Well, that wraps it up! We hope you enjoyed our Arches National Park Hiking Guide for the Broken Arch & Sand Dune Arch Trails and that it will prove useful for planning your trip.
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