Trail Run Project Logo

An easy trail boasting views of one of the world's largest arches.


Your Rating: Rating Rating Rating Rating Rating      Clear Rating
Your Difficulty:
Your Favorites: Add To-Do · Your List
Zoom in to see details
Map Key

0.5

Miles

0.9

KM

98%

Runnable

5,346' 1,630 m

High

5,225' 1,592 m

Low

122' 37 m

Up

0' 0 m

Down

4%

Avg Grade (2°)

6%

Max Grade (3°)

Dogs No Dogs

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

Description

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.

Contacts

Shared By:

Tom Robson

Trail Ratings

  4.3 from 4 votes

#10990

Overall
  4.3 from 4 votes
5 Star
75%
4 Star
0%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
25%
1 Star
0%
Trail Rankings

#366

in Utah

#10,990

Overall
4 Views Last Month
1,616 Since Feb 5, 2015
Intermediate Intermediate

0%
0%
100%
0%
0%
0%

Photos

Kolob Arch
Oct 26, 2015 near Toquerv…, UT
The mystifying Kolob Arch.
Feb 5, 2015 near Toquerv…, UT
One of the most enjoyable parts of walking through Kolob canyon is the beautiful contrast between the orange cliffs and the green trees. Ponderosa Pines and other evergreens decorate the canyons, joined on occasion by the odd deciduous tree as well.
Nov 1, 2020 near Toquerv…, UT
Kolob Canyon as seen when looking South from the Kolob Arch viewpoint.
Nov 1, 2020 near Toquerv…, UT
Kolob Arch, Zion National Park
Dec 5, 2017 near Toquerv…, UT
A little peak of blue
Apr 5, 2021 near Toquerv…, UT

0 Comments

Weather


Current Trail Conditions

Unknown
Add Your Check-In

Check-Ins

none
Welcome

Join the Community! It's FREE

Already have an account? Login to close this notice.