Deceptive scale until you stand beneath it.

The iconic symbol of Utah, Delicate Arch, is a must for any hiker, but it doesn’t come without its challenges. Due to the difficulty of the trail, I had to tackle this one solo. Thankfully, I got an early start and was dropped off—definitely the right call, as the parking lot fills up fast. By the time I returned, both the lot and the trails were packed.

The hike itself can be a bit tricky. There are some narrow parts of the trail with steep drops, where footing becomes essential, especially if the rock is wet—it would be easy to lose your balance on slick surfaces. As you get closer to the arch, the climb gets steeper, and you definitely feel the effort in your legs. The final approach is particularly exciting, with some parts hugging the edge of cliffs.

What struck me most was how deceptive the scale of Delicate Arch is. From a distance, it doesn’t appear all that large, but once you’re standing beneath it, you realize how massive and imposing it truly is. That moment when the arch first reveals itself is breathtaking—an awe-inspiring reward for the challenging trek.

If you plan on going, make sure to get there early and be prepared for some potentially tricky spots along the way!