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This is a family-friendly, easy loop trail around the base of picturesque rock formation


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Map Key

0.3

Miles

0.5

KM

96%

Runnable

5,067' 1,544 m

High

5,040' 1,536 m

Low

27' 8 m

Up

27' 8 m

Down

3%

Avg Grade (2°)

10%

Max Grade (6°)

Dogs No Dogs

Features Views

Overview

This easy loop delivers 5-star views of the magnificent balanced rock.

Runner Notes

Likely to be too crowded for comfortable running - try visiting early or late in the day for clear trails.

Description

The Balanced Rock Trail is nearly flat loop around a precariously balanced rock on a large pedestal. Marvel at the rock's improbable position! Partly paved, part on dirt, this popular trail circumnavigates the spire so you can see it from all sides. Supposedly, the top rock is as large as 3 school buses! Leaving directly from the parking lot and clocking in at less than a half mile in total, this is a trail almost anyone can do. Late afternoon is thought to be the best time to photograph Balanced Rock for the best color.

This rock formation was formed through a natural wind and water weathering process. Another interesting factoid is that Edward Abbey once lived near this rock when he served as an Arches Nat. Park ranger here in the 1950's. From this path you can also get good views of the Windows, the La Sal mountains and the Garden of Eden area. Note: no bikes are allowed on this trail.

Contacts

Shared By:

Megan W

Trail Ratings

  4.0 from 73 votes

#160

Overall
  4.0 from 73 votes
5 Star
36%
4 Star
37%
3 Star
21%
2 Star
5%
1 Star
1%
Recommended Route Rankings

#20

in Utah

#160

Overall
3 Views Last Month
1,406 Since Mar 5, 2015
Easy Easy

78%
14%
8%
0%
0%
0%

Photos

Balanced Rock doing its thing - balancing.
Jul 24, 2019 near Moab, UT
Balance Rock
Oct 18, 2017 near Moab, UT
Balanced Rock, Arches National Park
Mar 7, 2015 near Moab, UT
Pic just after sunset.
Mar 4, 2023 near Moab, UT
Pic just after sunset.
Mar 4, 2023 near Moab, UT
Balanced Rock
Feb 2, 2020 near Moab, UT

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