The Eye of the Whale Arch is a captivating natural feature located near Moab, Utah, that draws both adventure seekers and photographers alike. This unique geological formation showcases the stunning red sandstone typical of the region and features a striking opening resembling an eye, making it a memorable sight. Its accessibility and photogenic quality contribute to its importance, merging the beauty of nature with an appealing hiking experience.
Adventure Guide To View the Eye of the Whale Arch
Trailhead Location: The trail starts at the Devil's Garden within the Arches National Park. The hike covers approximately 4 miles round trip.
Unique Characteristics: The arch offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including towering cliffs and picturesque vistas. The trail itself is well-marked, providing an easy-to-follow path with moderate elevation gain, making it appropriate for most skill levels.
Key Features: Along the trail, hikers will encounter striking rock formations and historical petroglyphs that add to the area's cultural richness. The arch appears particularly vibrant during sunrise and sunset when the light creates breathtaking contrasts against the red rock.
Local Insights
The Eye of the Whale Arch is often less crowded than other landmarks within Arches National Park, offering a more intimate experience in nature. This formation's unique shape has led to various legends among local Native American tribes, highlighting its cultural significance. Understanding these narratives can enhance the visit, providing depth to the natural spectacle.
Visitor Tips
Best Times to Visit: Plan your trip during the early morning or late afternoon for the most spectacular lighting and cooler temperatures.
What to Bring: Ensure you have sturdy hiking shoes, plenty of water, and sun protection. A camera is essential for capturing the mesmerizing views.
Driving Directions: From Moab, drive approximately 30 minutes to the Arches National Park entrance. Arrive early to secure a parking spot, especially during peak season.
Make the Eye of the Whale Arch a must-see on your Moab itinerary for a memorable hike and stunning natural beauty.
Adventure Map
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Reviews
John Palaka4 years ago
You have to travel off road to get to this Arch. The road is a dirt rocky road not conducive to a regular vehicle that doesn't have high clearance. My son and I were determined to see this Arch so I was able to drive to it with my truck. It still amazes me how many different Arches there are in the Moab area and not just on the NP. This arch is on Arches NP, but not visited by very many people because of the location. The shape of the Arch is that of an eye.
Chase Parker4 months ago
The road to get here isnt all that bad if you have high clearance and it is a very easy hike if you can handle a little sand for part of the way. You also probably have this whole time to yourself so it makes it an easy decision if you like to get off the beaten path.
Kevin6 years ago
Very cool Arch, out of the way with no crowds, had the entire area to ourselves. Need 4x4 with high clearance or hike on foot to get there. We drove in a stock 2018 tacoma TRD OR with no issues. Highly recommend.
Jason Kamerath3 years ago
Easily one of the most under appreciated arches in the park, but one of the more difficult arches to get to due to location and lack of paved roads to easily access the area.
If you have a four wheel drive vehicle with high clearance there is a clearly marked road, otherwise park at the parking lot just below balance rock and prepare for a 5-6 mile walk down the road.
Once the long walk is done though- just wow! The overall wall size and arch opening is impressive for the location it’s in. Easy to walk up to and through on both sides, the south end is an immense bowl with sweeping sandstone walls opening back into the desert; while the north end opens right up to the trail marked at the roadside. If you have the time or the equipment I highly recommend a visit!
John Van Wagenen3 years ago
While the arch itself isn't one of my favorites, the area is. It's always so peaceful here and we rarely see anyone else side from a Jeep or two passing on the road. The rest of Arches could be so busy they stop letting vehicles in but no one will be here at the arch. It's amazing to be so close to the busy parts of the park but be surrounded by peace.
The road in is an easy 4x4 road. We have seen a Subaru Outback make it but definitely don't recommend it. Most any SUV should be able to make it if it has 4x4. You shouldn't even need 4x4 for most of the road, to be honest, unless you're coming from the North. The road from the North has some sections that require 4x4, but the route from the South is much easier.
