Take an easy hike through a gorgeous canyon in Moab, Utah to the stunning Morning Glory Arch.
This natural arch, located within Grandstaff Canyon, is reached by the Grandstaff Trail. This is one of our favorite trails in Moab.
The Morning Glory Arch
Morning Glory Arch is one of the largest natural arches in the Moab area, with a span that stretches over 243 feet. It is the sixth longest natural rock span in the United States. (The second longest arch is the Kolob Arch in Zion National Park. We also did the longer 14-15 mile hike along the La Verkin Creek Trail to see the Kolob Arch.)
This arch has a one-of-a-kind shape that looks beautiful against the desert sky.
This arch has been shaped by hundreds of years of erosion. The colors at sunrise and sunset change based on the lighting. The sunlight turns the sandstone bright orange, red, and adds cool shadows over the curved rock.
Hiking the Grandstaff Trail to the Morning Glory Arch
Grandstaff Trailhead
To reach Morning Glory Arch, take the Grandstaff Trail. It is a relatively easy hike that meanders through the very photogenic Grandstaff Canyon.
The Grandstaff Trail, overseen by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), is situated in an area distinct from Arches National Park. While it is close to the park, it lies on the opposite side of the Colorado River. (The map below provides the location of the trailhead.)
We camped about a mile and a half from here at the Goose Island Campground, which was an amazing place to wake up each day. This BLM campground is right on the Colorado River and backs up to Arches National Park. The photo below is of our Airstream when we camped there with the background of the cliffs of Arches National Park behind us.
Read more camping at the Goose Island Campground as well as a few other RV park and campground options.
What to Expect on the Grandstaff Trail
The Grandstaff Trail is about 4.5 miles round trip, and it goes along a stream in the canyon. It’s a nice change from the desert scene with green plants and huge sandstone canyon walls.
The hike starts off easy, winding up through a tight canyon. When you get closer to the Morning Glory Arch, about 2 1/4 miles in, you’ll cross a few wooden bridges, do a bit of climbing over rocks, and cross a few streams.
The trail is easy to follow and not difficult. Be sure to wear good shoes (no flip flops!) and bring lots of water, especially when it’s hot out. You can even fill up with natural spring water at the Matrimony Springs which is located just down the road on the way to Moab.
The History of the Grandstaff Trail
Originally known as Negro Bill Canyon, the trail was renamed in 2017 to honor William Grandstaff, a mixed-race cowboy and prospector who settled in the canyon in the late 19th century.
Grandstaff, of African American and Native American heritage, ran cattle in the canyon and lived in Moab until he left the area in 1881.
The renaming of the trail to Grandstaff Trail was part of a broader effort to recognize the contributions of individuals of all backgrounds to the history of the American West. It was also to move away from names that could be considered derogatory.
This change is to help show appreciation for the different people that have helped shape the Moab area.
Scenery along the Grandstaff Trail to Morning Glory Arch
This trail has beautiful Utah scenery as you go through a canyon to get to the Morning Glory arch at the end of the trail.
The out and back trail is about 5.7 miles long and has some gorgeous views along the way. Don’t forget your camera! We highly recommend this hike.
The cottonwood trees along the trail provide shade. This is a welcome cool break from the desert sun.
Best Time to Visit
The trail is accessible year-round. However, the best time to hike to Morning Glory Arch is during the spring and fall when the temperatures are cooler. Summer months can be extremely hot, so if you plan to hike in the summer, go early in the day.
We hiked the Grandstaff trail in October, and it was chilly. There was even snow on the ground covering cactuses. If you bring a dog, like we did, be careful to make sure your dog doesn’t step on the cactuses. Dogs not familiar with this terrain could get badly injured as the cactuses are no joke.
Morning Glory Arch Final Thoughts
Morning Glory Arch is a fabulous hiking destination in Moab. It is easy to drive to, an easy hike, and ends with a rewarding view of the beautiful Morning Glory Arch.
The last bit goes up a little before showing off the amazing view of Morning Glory Arch.