Double Arch is one of the most awe-inspiring formations in Arches National Park, showcasing not one but two colossal arches joined at the top. Its grandeur and accessibility make it a favorite among visitors, whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just stopping by for a quick adventure. Here’s your complete guide to visiting Double Arch, including trail details, tips, and why it’s a must-see.
Difficulty – Easy
Distance – 0.6 mi miles round trip (1 km)
Elevation gain – About 30 ft (9 m)
Duration – Less than 1 hour
Dogs – Not allowed
Reservations are required in Arches National Park during the busy season. See status and grab reservations here.
What to Expect on the Trail
Starting at the Windows Section
The hike begins at the Windows Section parking area, a hub for several nearby formations. The trail is wide, well-marked, and mostly flat, making it suitable for all ages and abilities. We highly recommend taking the 1 mile out and back to see the three arches
Approaching Double Arch
As you walk, the towering sandstone formations begin to loom larger, and Double Arch quickly becomes visible in the distance. The sheer scale of the structure is breathtaking, even from afar.
Beneath the Arches
Once you reach the base, you can scramble up the rocks for a closer look. Standing directly under Double Arch is an unforgettable experience, as the massive spans of sandstone curve gracefully above you. You’ll see many people scrambling up to get unique viewpoints above the trail.
My Experience
The double arches are incredibly impressive to sit under. In addition, I absolutely love to climb around the rocks under the arches. It is a bit like an adult playground.
Weather
Here is a detailed weather forecast for the area:
Castle Valley, UT
Overnight
Isolated showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 67. South wind 5 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%.
Saturday
Isolated rain showers before 7am. Mostly sunny, with a high near 92. South southeast wind 5 to 15 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%.
Saturday Night
Mostly clear, with a low around 70. South wind 10 to 15 mph.
Sunday
A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms after 3pm. Sunny, with a high near 91. South wind 10 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 35 mph.
Sunday Night
A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms before midnight, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 68. South wind 15 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 35 mph. Chance of precipitation is 50%.
Monday
A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms after 9am. Mostly sunny, with a high near 85. Chance of precipitation is 20%.
Monday Night
A chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 63.
Directions
Windows Trail Trailhead:
Max DesMarais is the founder of myoutdoorbasecamp.com. He has a passion for the outdoors and making outdoor education and adventure more accessible. Max is a published author for various outdoor adventure, travel, and marketing websites. He is an experienced hiker, backpacker, fly fisherman, backcountry skier, trail runner, and spends his free time in the outdoors. These adventures allow him to test gear, learn new skills, and experience new places so that he can educate others. Max grew up hiking all around New Hampshire and New England. He became obsessed with the New Hampshire mountains, and the NH 48, where he guided hikes and trail runs in the White Mountains. Since moving out west, Max has continued climbed all of the Colorado 14ers, completed multiple ultra marathons, including the 100 mile Run Rabbit Run, is always testing gear, learning skills, gaining experience, and building his endurance for outdoor sports. You can read more about his experience here: hikingandfishing/about
