Pros & cons
PROS
- Quick, high-impact roadside stop on Zion–Mount Carmel Highway
- Warm, dramatic light in late afternoon for photos
- Occasional bighorn sheep sightings along SR‑9
CONS
- Very limited pullout parking that fills quickly
- No facilities—no restrooms, water, or shade
Overview
The Great Arch is a gigantic alcove—often called a “blind arch”—carved into Navajo Sandstone along the Zion–Mount Carmel Highway (SR‑9). You don’t hike to a freestanding span here; you admire a colossal recess in the cliff that frames the switchbacks above Zion Canyon. It’s a classic stop that’s almost impossible to miss if you’re driving this road.
What You’ll See
From the small roadside pullouts, you’ll look up at a sweeping red‑orange wall scalloped into an immense arch-like recess. The rock glows at day’s edges, and the setting makes for easy, satisfying photography. If you want a different angle from above, the separate Canyon Overlook viewpoint peers back across the switchbacks with the Great Arch below.
How It Formed (Short Version)
Zion’s Navajo Sandstone started as towering Jurassic sand dunes. Over time, fractures, runoff, freeze–thaw cycles, and exfoliation enlarged a weakness in the cliff, carving a vast alcove rather than a freestanding opening—hence a “blind arch.”
Access and Amenities
This is a roadside viewpoint on SR‑9. Expect a tiny pullout with space for just a few vehicles. There are no restrooms, no water, no picnic tables, and little to no shade. Cell service can be spotty. Do not stop in tunnel no‑stopping zones or block traffic. Note: the park shuttle does not serve the Zion–Mount Carmel Highway; you drive this road yourself even during shuttle season in Zion Canyon.
Best Time to Visit
- Early morning: coolest temps and the best chance at a parking spot.
- Late afternoon to early evening: the rock glows beautifully once day crowds thin and the light softens.
- Midday: harsh light and hotter temps; in summer, afternoons can be scorching—plan an early/late split day and carry plenty of water.
Wildlife
Keep an eye on the slopes along SR‑9—bighorn sheep are occasionally spotted right by the road, especially nearer the east side of the park.
Pair It With
The Canyon Overlook Trail is a popular short hike that delivers sweeping views and an overhead perspective of the Great Arch area. Parking is extremely limited roadside, and the path is uneven with exposure in spots, so start early and bring water.
Where it is
37.2128, -112.9457Tips for Great Arch of Zion
- 01Drive SR‑9; the park shuttle does not serve this highway.
- 02If the pullout is full, continue driving and loop back later—don’t block traffic.
- 03Aim for late afternoon for warm light; go early if you want easier parking.
- 04Pair it with the Canyon Overlook Trail for a striking overhead perspective.
- 05Bring water and a hat—there’s no shade or services at the pullout.
Amenities
Near Great Arch of Zion
All places →All trails →
0 mi awayPine Creek Canyon OverlookShort walk to huge views over the Great Arch and switchbacksParking · Restroom
0.1 mi awayCanyon Overlook TrailOne mile to big views above the Great Arch and towering wallsEasy · 1 mi · 1 hr
0.6 mi awayEast TempleIconic Navajo sandstone monolith soaring above the canyon switchbacksPullout · Scenic Viewpoint
0.7 mi awayZion-Mount Carmel TunnelHistoric 1.1-mile tunnel with cliffside windows and big-view exits
0.8 mi awayLower Pine Creek WaterfallShort scramble to a hidden waterfall and swim-friendly poolPullout · Parking
2.4 mi awayWatchman TrailQuick, view-packed climb to a classic canyon overlookModerate · 3.2 mi · 1.8 hr
2.4 mi awayPa'rus TrailEasy riverside stroll with canyon views, bikes, and leashed dogs.Easy · 3.3 mi · 1.1 hr
2.4 mi awayArchaeology TrailA sun-exposed mini-hill with quick views near the Visitor CenterEasy · 0.3 mi · 15 min
