- 10.8 miles (typically 6-7 hours)
- Strenuous with over 1,000 feet of elevation gain.
- Trailhead: Elephant Hill Trail parking lot.
Overview
Reminiscent of the massive stone monoliths of Stonehenge, the Druid Arch is one of the most spectacular sights in all of Canyonlands National Park. You’ll begin your hike on the Chesler Park access trail, and then continue along enjoy scenic Elephant Canyon, which you’ll follow to its end. Hikers take note, there is some moderate scrambling at the route’s end, as well as one climb involving a ladder.
Trailhead
Access the trail from the Elephant Hill Trailhead. From the main entrance, drive 3.1 miles, where you’ll find a paved road going off to the left. Take the left, and continue .3 miles to another unnamed paved road, where you’ll turn right. Then take another right about half a mile later onto the unpaved, two wheel-drive Elephant Hill Access Road. From here its 3 miles to the trailhead.
Details
- Distance: 10.8 miles
- Average Time of Hike: 6 -7 hours
- Elevation Gain: 1,000 feet.
- Difficulty: Difficult.
- Trail Type: Out and back.
- Trailhead: Elephant Hill Trail parking lot.
Plan & Prepare
Temperatures in Moab can be highly variable, with summertime highs topping out above 100 degrees, and wintertime lows dipping below 30. Make sure you dress appropriately. During the summer, pack plenty of water, sunscreen. During the winter, dressing in layers is your best bet, as you’ll be able to peel clothes off, and put clothes on to suit your comfort level.