Fun to go down, not so much coming back up. Shortly before the arch, the trail drops down a steep slope with very deep sand. Other portions of the trail are composed of soft sand Portions of the trail have a hard pan surface There’s nothing complicated about the hike, and it’s a gradual 12 grade on rock most of the way. Numerous sandstone formations along the trail provide a wonderful experience for hikers and equestrians alike The Delicate Arch trail is rated as moderate, but I think it is a pretty easy trail to explore. ![]() This sand slope is a fun play area for families hiking the trail Immediately after the step-over visitors can enjoy a small slot canyon along with other interesting trail segments The trail begins at this step-over at the southeast corner of the Sand Cove camp area Visitors with high clearance 4WD may drive directly to the Sand Cove camp parking area Many visitors park at the Sand Cove trailhead right off the Babylon Roadįrom the Sand Cove trailhead area, visitors hike the Flicker trail to reach the Sand Cove campįrom the Flicker trail, visitors hike the Sand Cove access road to the Sand Cove camp and start of the Arch trail The Sandstone Area map shows the Sand Cove access trail and all linkages to adjoining trails in the Sandstone Mountain complex. The trail lies across lands administered by the BLM in the Red Cliffs NCA. Total up and down elevation change from end to end is about 420 feet. Otherwise, the Arch trail is only moderately difficult in places and is suitable for most families. An unsigned, alternate return route exists about 20 yards east of the arch that allows a more gradual climb through partly sandy soils to get back up to the main trail back to the start. A short, steep slope with deep sand immediately north of the arch can be challenging to some hikers returning to the parking area, especially in hot, dry summer months. ![]() Another half mile will take visitors down to the Virgin River where the trail ends. About 1 mile down the trail, visitors will find a small but beautiful stand-alone arch that is a popular photo site. A trail sign marks the beginning of the Arch trail which winds through a rocky drainage with delightful red rock formations and a few sandy sections. High clearance vehicles with 4WD capability can be driven right to the camp area on the jeep road coming out of the trailhead and parked at an appropriate location in the Cove. From the stepover at the parking area, hike the Flicker trail for 0.2 miles and follow the jeep road to the right another 0.4 miles to the primitive Sand Cove camp area. This popular 1.5 mile trail can be accessed from the Sand Cove trailhead parking area just off the Babylon Road, 3 miles south of its intersection with Main Street in Leeds and 1½ miles from the Reserve’s north boundary.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
Details
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |