Lexington Arch Trail

From the relocated access, the first portion follows the old road before turning onto a narrower hiking path. A long sequence of switchbacks does most of the climbing; the grade then eases as the route crosses shrubland and fire-scarred hillside. An early-2010s fire burned much of the surrounding slope and damaged the original road access. Live trees become more frequent higher up, but shade is still patchy. The arch stays hidden until near the park boundary; an overlook gives you the first glimpse, then the path drops toward the drainage below the span.

Lexington Arch is unusual among western natural arches because it is carved from limestone rather than sandstone. Some geologists think water once flowed through a cave in the canyon wall, leaving a bridge-like opening; that explanation is a possibility, not a settled fact. In the drainage below, look for flowstone, stalactites and popcorn-shaped cave deposits on the pale limestone. The route reaches the far side of the arch, where the opening frames Snake Valley and the ranges to the east. It is worth pausing here: from close up, the scale and the cave-like stone around it make more sense than they do in a distant photo.

Reach the trail from Lexington Creek Road by following the signed Lexington Arch access road. The approach is an unimproved dirt road managed by the Bureau of Land Management; the old road-end start is no longer used, and the relocated trailhead is about a mile short of it. High-clearance four-wheel drive is recommended. Spring and fall runoff can wash out the road, and snow or mud can make it impassable in winter, so check conditions before the long drive. Park only in designated spaces and follow the signed route at the final fork.

There is no potable water or toilet at the trailhead or along the route. Carry sufficient water for a half-day hike; the park advises about a gallon per person per day. The exposed climb makes shade scarce, so plan for sun and heat. Dogs are allowed here on a leash no longer than six feet, a rare exception among the park's trails. Food or other services at the trailhead were not identified.