Lexington Arch

Lexington Arch is a large natural opening in a limestone outcrop above Lexington Canyon, in the park's remote southern corner. It's worth the commitment if you want an unusual landform: most natural arches in the West are sandstone. This is a hike, not a roadside stop. From the official trailhead, plan for about 5½ miles round trip and 2–4 hours on the trail.

Getting to the trailhead is part of the effort. Lexington Creek Road is mostly gravel and dirt, rough and rutted; high clearance is necessary and four-wheel drive is recommended. Wet conditions can make it impassable, so check current road conditions before setting out. Dogs are allowed on this hike, the only trail in the park where they are. Carry food and water for the outing.

A fire in the early 2010s burned much of the former road and trail. The approach still crosses open shrubland with little shade, and the last quarter mile climbs several short switchbacks to the arch. The southern setting is part of the draw, but it also makes for a hot, exposed walk in summer.

Western arches are usually sandstone; Lexington's limestone makes it unusual. Smooth, glossy flowstone at the base of the opening has led to the idea that the arch may once have been a passage through a cave system. That's a theory, not a settled origin story, but it gives you something specific to look for in the rock.

A bench gives you a place to pause near the arch. The viewpoint before the final descent shows it in the wider canyon; closer in, the full opening and surrounding limestone make the scale easier to read. This is a good place to stop and look around before turning back.