Kolob Arch Trail

Dogs No Dogs

Features Birding · Cave · Fall Colors · River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Located deep in the backcountry of Zion National Parks Kolob Canyons District, and hidden in a small side canyon, sits Kolob Arch, perched high on the canyon wall with a majestic curve like a giant condors wing. Because of its remote location and virtual inaccessibility, Kolob Arch for years has challenged cowboys, rangers, runners, climbers, and photographers alike. For most of the twentieth century many believed that Kolob was in fact the worlds largest freestanding arch, leading to years of debate and the motivation for various parties of adventurous thrill seekers to climb on and around the massive span in hopes of securing a defensible measurement.

Despite its isolated location, Kolob Arch has become a favorite backcountry destination for thousands of visitors to Zion. They discover what most arch seekers will tell you: while beauty awaits every seeker at the end of the path, the reward begins unfolding at the trailhead. Along the trail to Kolob Arch lies some of the most beautiful scenery in Zion. Geology becomes art as the La Verkin Creek, with its soothing sounds of life-giving water, sculpts some of the most colorful canyon walls in Southwestern Utah. Awe inspiring views of the Kolob Terrace along the trail give a tired runner many places to stop and recharge while gazing upon the high plateau country of Zion.

Wildlife abounds in these protected canyons and runners will encounter reptiles, birds, and mammals. Seven miles along the trail, one is rewarded with a sight not seen by most of Zions two and a half million annual visitors, the impressive expanse of Kolob Arch. With a span of 287 feet and a thickness of 75 feet, most experts now agree that Kolob Arch is not the worlds largest span in terms of measurement, but visitors concur with the claim that it is certainly one of the most beautiful and massive arches surrounded and protected by the majestic scenery of Zion.