Balanced Rock is a large sandstone boulder that sits precariously on a narrower pedestal, giving the appearance of being balanced. The total height of the formation is approximately 39 feet, with the boulder itself measuring about 55 feet in length. The pedestal is only about 3 feet in diameter and stands at a height of about 17 feet. Balanced Rock is a popular attraction in the park and can be seen from the road or from a nearby parking area. You can also take a short hike to get a closer look at the formation.

The formation is believed to have been created by natural erosion processes over millions of years. The harder sandstone rock at the top of the boulder is more resistant to erosion than the softer sandstone rock at the base. As the softer rock was gradually eroded away, the harder rock at the top was left balancing on the pedestal.

Balanced Rock

Dead Horse Point is a popular outdoor destination near Moab, featuring stunning views of the surrounding canyons and desert landscapes. We recommend stopping at the main overlook to take in the views, but if you have extra time there's plenty of short and long scenic hikes in the park.

The park gets its name from a local legend that states cowboys used the area to corral wild mustangs and then blocked off the only entrance, leaving them to die of thirst. Despite the morbid history, it is a great stop with incredible views.

Dead Horse Point

Delicate Arch is one of the most iconic natural arches in the world. The arch is made of Entrada Sandstone and stands 52 feet tall and 32 feet wide. The arch is free-standing and is the most famous feature of the park. Hiking to Delicate Arch is a popular activity, and the trail is 3 miles round trip with an elevation gain of about 480 feet. The trail starts at Wolfe Ranch and winds its way up a slickrock slope before arriving at the overlook for Delicate Arch. You can also hike down to the base of the arch for a closer look.

Delicate Arch is not only a natural wonder, but it is also a symbol of the American Southwest. It has been featured on Utah license plates and was even used as a backdrop for the opening ceremony of the 2002 Winter Olympics. At sunset, the arch glows a brilliant orange-red color and is a stunning sight to behold. 

We recommend visiting is in the early morning or late afternoon when the lighting is optimal and crowds are little.

Trail details on AllTrails

Delicate Arch

Devil's Garden is the best way to see most of the arches in one go. The trail is known for its unique rock formations, including sandstone arches, spires, and other geological wonders.

The trail can be hiked as an out-and-back, or as a loop that is roughly 7.2 miles in total length. The trail is rated as strenuous overall due to the uneven terrain, steep drops, and exposure to the elements. The first part of the trail is pretty easy and offers spectacular scenery, so you can turn back early if not feeling like it.

The Devil's Garden Trail takes you past several of the park's most famous arches, including Landscape Arch, Navajo Arch, Partition Arch, and Double O Arch. Along the way, hikers can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding canyonlands and red rock formations.

We recommend visiting outside of the hottest summer months, but if you ended up here in summer – bring plenty of water and good sun protection.

Devil’s Garden

Double Arch is another beautiful arch in the park. This impressive double arch is formed by two parallel arches that share a common end. The larger arch has a span of 144 feet and a height of 112 feet, making it one of the largest arches in the park.

Double Arch is accessible via a short, easy trail from the parking lot. The trail leads you to the base of the arches where you can admire their impressive size and take pictures. The arches were formed by erosion from water and ice, as well as from the stresses of gravity and weathering. 

You can also explore the area around the arches. Many people enjoy climbing on the sandstone formations. Double Arch is especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset when the colors of the sandstone formations are at their most vibrant.

Double Arch

Grand View Point is a popular hiking and sightseeing destination located in the Island in the Sky. The Grand View Point trail is a 2-mile round-trip hike that takes you along the canyon rim to a stunning panoramic overlook. The trail is considered easy to moderate, with some uneven terrain and steep drop-offs. Along the way, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the canyonlands, including the distant La Sal Mountains and the winding Colorado River far below. The Grand View Point trail is a must-visit for anyone exploring the Island in the Sky district of Canyonlands National Park.

Grand View Point

Mesa Arch is a stunning natural arch located in the Island in the Sky district of Canyonlands National Park. It's a must destination for photographers and hikers – to witness the breathtaking sunrise light up the arch and the surrounding landscape. The arch is perched on the edge of a cliff, and the view through the arch frames the dramatic canyon vistas, making it a must-see for anyone visiting Canyonlands National Park.

To reach Mesa Arch, you can take a short, easy hike that is less than a mile round trip. The trail winds through sandstone fins and offers stunning views of the surrounding canyons. At the end of the trail, you are rewarded with a spectacular view of the sun rising over the arch and the canyon below. The arch itself is only about 50 feet wide and 30 feet high, but it's the incredible view that makes it one of the most popular spots in Canyonlands National Park.

Mesa Arch

Newspaper Rock is a famous petroglyph site, featuring hundreds of ancient carvings, dating back over 2,000 years. It was likely used as a communal storytelling and recording location by the indigenous people who lived in the area. The petroglyphs depict a variety of animals, human figures, and abstract designs, and offer a glimpse into the rich cultural history of the region.

You can view the site from a nearby viewing platform, with interpretive signage helps explain the history and significance of the petroglyphs. The site is easily accessible from nearby state and national parks, and is a must-see destination for anyone interested in ancient rock art and Native American history.

Newspaper Rock

Sand Dune Arch is a unique and picturesque spot, tucked away in a hidden sandstone alcove, surrounded by towering red rocks and sandy trails. To reach the arch, you can take a short, easy hike through a narrow slot canyon and then scramble up a steep sand dune to reach the arch itself.

Once at the arch, you can walk underneath it and explore the sandy alcove. The arch provides some shade on hot days and is a great spot for photos. You can also continue past the arch to explore the nearby landscape, which includes more sand dunes, rock formations, and hiking trails.

Sand Dune Arch

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I’d go for Castle Valley Inn if you want a stay with a spa. The views are part of the appeal.

The Grand Circle hosts some of the most bizarre landscapes on Earth, all just a few hours apart. From tiny beautiful canyons like Antelope to the Grand Canyon itself, with tons of outworldly places in between — this road trip will blow your mind.

Castle Valley Inn is a charming bed and breakfast located in the picturesque town of Moab. Surrounded by towering red rock formations and stunning views of Castle Valley, this cozy inn provides the perfect base for exploring the beauty of the area.

The property offers a variety of cozy and well-appointed guest rooms, each with its own private entrance and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. You can relax on the outdoor patio or take a dip in the on-site hot tub while enjoying the peaceful serenity of the desert.

Castle Valley Inn is an ideal destination for those seeking a quiet and relaxing getaway, while still being close to all the adventures that Moab has to offer. Whether you're hiking in nearby Arches National Park, exploring the local canyons, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the area, Castle Valley Inn provides a comfortable and welcoming home away from home.

Castle Valley Inn

Embark on the ultimate road trip with all the parks and regions of the Grand Circle.

Full Grand Circle

Not as grand, but still a circle, with the most stunning parks of Utah and Arizona.

Small Circle

The adventure capital, where the red-rock landscapes of Arches and Canyonlands National Parks await. Whether you're mountain biking, river rafting, or hiking, Moab provides an adrenaline rush alongside stunning scenery.

Castle Valley Inn

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