Great Arch

Great Arch is a broad, shallow alcove cut into the cliff beside the Zion–Mount Carmel Highway, on the climb toward the tunnel. It’s a striking landmark from the road, but the opening is still attached to the wall; this is something to notice on the drive, not a walk-through arch or a short hike.

The recess is in Navajo Sandstone. It looks like an arch from across the canyon, but rock still connects its roof to the cliff. Erosion has carved the opening without breaking through the wall. That makes it a good example of the long process that can eventually leave a natural arch standing on its own.

Look for the arch on the highway climb near Pine Creek, before the tunnel. The map pin marks the rock formation, not a confirmed parking place: no dedicated safe, legal pullout at that exact spot was verified. Don’t stop on the road or inside the tunnel; use only a signed, designated turnout if one is open and safe. If you get a legal place to stop, keep some of the surrounding cliff in the frame so the shallow alcove doesn’t look like a freestanding bridge.

There’s no established walk-up route or Great Arch-specific facility. The view belongs to the Zion–Mount Carmel Highway drive, which can close for ice or rockfall, so check current park road conditions before setting out.