THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Discover ancient dinosaur tracks, petroglyphs, and a hidden sandstone arch on Moab’s Longbow Arch Hike—a four-hour trek blending outdoor adventure and cultural history.
Discover ancient dinosaur tracks, petroglyphs, and a hidden sandstone arch on Moab’s Longbow Arch Hike—a four-hour trek blending outdoor adventure and cultural history.
Book with Elevate Outdoors
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Elevate Outdoors · Moab, Utah
Set against the dramatic landscape of Moab, Utah, the Longbow Arch Hike offers spirited adventurers a unique journey through one of the region's most fascinating natural and cultural landmarks. This roughly four-hour trek launches from the Poison Spider Trailhead, a gateway into a world where red rock formations stretch into the sky and the traces of prehistoric life remain etched in stone. Ideal for hikers of all experience levels, the Longbow Arch Hike combines geological wonder, history, and impressive natural architecture, making it an outstanding outdoor activity in southeastern Utah.
Throughout the adventure, hikers are treated to a remarkable array of terrain. The trail navigates alongside petrified sand dunes, sculpted over millions of years, their textures and colors shifting with the sun's movement. Early in the route, the opportunity to spot authentic dinosaur tracks adds a thrilling connection to the area's ancient past. These fossilized footprints offer a tangible glimpse of life that roamed these lands tens of millions of years ago.
Moving onward, hikers encounter stunning petroglyphs etched into rock faces, mysterious artworks created by the ancestors of the native peoples who once called this area home. These markings highlight Moab's deep cultural heritage and provide enriching moments of reflection amid the wilderness.
The trail culminates at Longbow Arch, an impressive but somewhat hidden natural sandstone arch that rewards the effort with a majestic view. The arch frames the deep blue Utah sky, providing a perfect spot for photography and quiet contemplation away from the more crowded Moab attractions.
Elevate Outdoors Guiding runs this standout local experience, known for friendly, knowledgeable guides who help visitors safely navigate and fully appreciate the area’s natural and historical richness. Their expertise brings the story of Moab's geology and culture alive, making the hike not just a workout but an immersive adventure.
Moab itself serves as the perfect base, offering ample lodging and amenities while maintaining an adventurous spirit. Whether you’re here for this hike or exploring nearby Canyonlands and Arches National Parks, the Longbow Arch Hike is a remarkable addition to your itinerary. The hike’s accessible difficulty and rich variety of sights make it ideal for families, solo travelers, and seasoned hikers seeking lesser-known trails.
Prepare to experience a combination of rugged wilderness, traces of deep time, and a breathtaking, secluded arch—the Longbow Arch Hike reveals the wild heart of Moab in a way few other trails can.
moderate.
3–4 hours.
Moderate fitness required; comfortable walking on uneven desert trail and some elevation change.
It’s rated moderate due to uneven terrain and distance but is suitable for anyone with basic hiking experience.
Pets are generally allowed, but it’s best to check with Elevate Outdoors Guiding for any restrictions and bring enough water for your pet.
No, but guided hikes are recommended to enhance your understanding of local geology and history.
Spring and fall offer mild temperatures, while summer can be very hot; winter is cooler but sometimes windy.
Yes, basic restroom facilities are located at Poison Spider Trailhead parking area.
Yes, keep an eye out for mule deer and desert lizards along the trail.
Moab's rock art dates back over 1,000 years and reflects the ancestral Puebloan culture.
The area is actively preserved to protect fragile desert ecosystems and cultural sites; visitors are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles.
Elevate Outdoors is a Moab-based guiding company specializing in guided climbing, canyoneering, rappelling, highlining and scenic desert hikes. The business offers a wide range of experiences—from full-day beginner climbing courses and half-day skills clinics to multi-pitch climbs, long rappels and immersive canyoneering journeys. Trips include Full Day Beginner Climbing Course, Half Day Climbing Course, Half Day Entrajo or Funnel Arch Canyoneering (private), Half Day Rappelling Course, Longbow Arch Hike, 3/4 Day Bow and Arrow Canyoneering, Ancient Art/Terma Multi-Pitch Climb, Looking Glass Arch Multi-Pitch Climb, The Sky Walk beginner top-rope highline course, and Full Day Highline Course (beginner or intermediate). All technical equipment is provided for guided outings; participants should bring personal essentials and weather-appropriate clothing. Experienced guides lead every trip and emphasize modern safety and technique while tailoring instruction to each participant’s skill level. Several trips highlight local landmarks and geology—Poison Spider Trailhead, dinosaur tracks, petroglyphs, petrified sand dunes, Bow-Tie Arch, Pool Arch, Looking Glass Rock and Castleton Tower viewpoints. Many offerings require no prior experience, while advanced routes (including classic crack-climbing lines) challenge experienced climbers. As a provider of one-of-a-kind highline and canyoneering programs in the region, Elevate Outdoors builds trust through thorough briefings, hands-on instruction, and providing all technical gear. Guests leave with stronger skills, memorable desert views, and the confidence to return for greater adventures.
Book with Elevate Outdoors