Quick Facts:

Location: Arches National Park, Moab, Utah

Coordinates: 38.70342776320231, -109.5715756805636

Length: 5 Miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Elevation Gain: 400’

Dog Friendly: No

Introduction:

If you’ve ever dreamed of blending off-road thrills with jaw-dropping scenery, Eye of the Whale in Arches National Park is the trail for you. Tucked away in the wild desert near Moab, Utah, this hidden gem offers a fun and scenic way to experience the park’s rugged beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned off-roader or just feeling adventurous, you’ll fall in love with this unique slice of the American Southwest.

How to Get There:

Reaching Eye of the Whale is like diving into the heart of Arches’ wild side. Start at the park’s main entrance, just five miles north of Moab on US-191. As you wind past the iconic Balanced Rock, keep an eye out for Willow Springs Road, an unpaved path that leads you to the trailhead. Here’s the deal, you need a high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle to tackle this terrain. If that sounds a bit intimidating, no worries! Local Moab guides are pros at getting you there (and making it a blast along the way).

Description of the Landscape:

The Eye of the Whale trail takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes in Arches. Picture giant red rock formations towering against an endless blue sky, smooth sandstone surfaces glowing orange in the sun, and vast desert expanses that stretch forever. The star of the show is Eye of the Whale Arch, a graceful sandstone feature shaped like, well, a whale’s eye. Add in the golden light of sunrise or sunset, and it feels like nature’s best-kept secret.

Trail Difficulty and Length:

This trail offers a mix of excitement and ease. It’s about 5  miles long, which is perfect for a quick yet rewarding adventure. The terrain has a little bit of everything, sandy patches, rocky sections, and a few fun challenges for your off-roading skills. While not overly difficult, it’s best suited for drivers with some experience or beginners who don’t mind taking it slow.

Is Eye of the Whale Dog-Friendly?

Unfortunately, Eye of the Whale is not dog-friendly. Like most trails in Arches National Park, pets are not allowed on hiking trails, in the backcountry, or on unpaved roads. Pets are permitted in parking areas, campgrounds, and along paved roads, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. If you’re traveling with a pet, consider planning other activities outside the park that accommodate dogs.

Local Regulations:

Since Arches is a national park, there are a few rules to keep in mind. Stick to the designated trails and roads to protect the delicate desert ecosystem. Always pack out your trash. And one more thing: check the weather before heading out. The desert can throw curveballs like flash floods or scorching heat.

Other Trails Nearby:

Once you’ve tackled Eye of the Whale, there’s plenty more to explore. Tower Arch is just around the corner and offers a similar mix of off-road fun and spectacular views. For hikers, the Delicate Arch and Devil’s Garden trails are iconic for a reason, though they can be a bit busier. Prefer fewer crowds? Check out Klondike Bluffs for a quieter slice of beauty.

Non-Hiking Fun in the Area

If hiking or off road driving isn’t your vibe, don’t worry, there’s still plenty to do. Cruise along Arches’ Scenic Drive for sweeping vistas without breaking a sweat. Nearby Moab is also packed with fun, from rafting down the Colorado River to exploring quirky shops and delicious local eats. Whether you’re into adrenaline or relaxation, you’ll find something to love here.

When to Go: Timing is Everything

The best time to visit Eye of the Whale is in spring or fall, when the weather is just right. Think cool mornings, warm afternoons, and stunning sunsets. Summer can be brutally hot, and winter might bring snow or icy patches, so plan accordingly. For a magical experience, hit the trail early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and catch that golden desert glow.