Broken Arch Trail

Starting from the Sand Dune Arch parking area, this trail immediately sets itself apart from the crowded roadside stops in Arches. You'll cross a surprisingly open grassland — a rarity in a park defined by slickrock — with sweeping views of sandstone fins rising on either side. The path is flat and sandy, making it feel more like a desert meadow stroll than a typical red rock scramble. As you approach Broken Arch, the formation reveals itself gradually: a massive freestanding span with a dramatic crack running across its top, as if the desert is slowly reclaiming its own architecture. You can walk right up to and even through the arch, which most visitors never realize. This is the trail for anyone who wants a quiet moment with a landmark arch while everyone else is gridlocked at Delicate Arch trailhead.