Quick Facts:

Location: Arches National Park near Moab, Utah

Coordinates: 38.62475638422662, -109.59969006399405

Length: 1 mile one-way, 2 miles roundtrip 

Difficulty: Easy

Elevation Gain: 300 Feet

Dog Friendly: No

Introduction:

Park Avenue Trail, one of the most iconic hikes in Arches National Park, offers visitors a chance to walk through a majestic canyon flanked by towering red rock formations. Located near Moab, Utah, this trail is perfect for both beginners and seasoned hikers looking to experience the grandeur of the park’s unique landscape. Whether you’re drawn to the awe-inspiring views or the serene desert environment, Park Avenue Trail is a must-visit.

How to Get There:

Arches National Park is located just 5 miles north of Moab, Utah. From Moab, take US-191 north to the entrance of the park. There is a $30 per vehicle fee or the America the Beautiful Pass gets you in for free. Once inside, follow the main park road for about 2.5 miles to reach the Park Avenue Viewpoint and trailhead. The drive is quick and straightforward, offering stunning views along the way.

Parking Information:

Parking is available at the Park Avenue Viewpoint, which serves as the starting point for the trail. The parking lot is moderately sized but can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons such as spring and fall. Arriving early in the day is recommended to ensure you get a spot. If the lot is full, there are other parking areas within the park that you can use, though they may require a short walk back to the trailhead.

Description of the Landscape:

As you start your hike on Park Avenue Trail, you’ll immediately be surrounded by towering red sandstone walls that create a canyon-like environment. The trail gets its name from these sheer cliffs, which resemble the skyscrapers lining New York’s Park Avenue. Notable formations along the trail include the Courthouse Towers, the Three Gossips, and The Organ. The flat, sandy trail makes it easy to enjoy the stunning views, with the landscape changing colors throughout the day as the sun moves across the sky.

Trail Difficulty and Length:

Park Avenue Trail is a relatively easy hike, making it suitable for hikers of all ages and skill levels. The trail is about 1 mile one way, with a gradual descent into the canyon. Most hikers choose to do the trail as an out-and-back hike, making the total distance about 2 miles. The trail is well-marked and maintained, with only a few areas where you might encounter uneven terrain.

Is Park Avenue Trail Dog-Friendly?

Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed on the Park Avenue Trail or any other trails within Arches National Park. Pets are only permitted in parking areas, campgrounds, and along paved roads, and they must be on a leash at all times. If you’re traveling with a pet, consider planning alternative activities outside the park.

Local Regulations:

To help preserve the fragile desert ecosystem, it’s important to stay on designated trails while hiking in Arches National Park. The park’s biological soil crust is a vital part of the environment, and stepping off the trail can cause lasting damage. Additionally, visitors should adhere to Leave No Trace principles, packing out all trash and minimizing their impact on the natural surroundings.

Other Trails Nearby:

Balanced Rock Trail: An easy 0.3-mile loop around one of the park’s most iconic features.

Windows Loop and Turret Arch Trail: A 1-mile round trip hike to multiple impressive arches.

Delicate Arch Trail: A moderately strenuous 3-mile round trip hike to the park’s most famous arch.

Non-Hiking Attractions Nearby:

While hiking is the main draw of Arches National Park, there are plenty of other attractions to enjoy in the Moab area. The scenic drive through the park offers numerous pull-offs with breathtaking views and photo opportunities. In Moab, you can explore a variety of local shops, restaurants, and art galleries. For history enthusiasts, the Moab Museum of Film and Western Heritage provides a fascinating look at the area’s role in classic Western films.

Accommodations: 

Hotels and Motels: I highly, highly recommend Hoodoo Moab by Hilton. I’ve stayed here multiple times and I’m never let down. 

Campgrounds: For a more immersive experience, camp at Devils Garden Campground within Arches National Park or at one of the many BLM campgrounds in the area.

Vacation Rentals: Airbnb and VRBO offer a variety of rental options, from cozy cabins to spacious homes.

Best Time to Visit:

The best times to hike Park Avenue Trail are during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when temperatures are mild and the park is less crowded. Summer can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F, which can make hiking uncomfortable. Winter offers cooler temperatures and fewer visitors, but be prepared for the possibility of snow or ice on the trails.