Great Arch of Zion

A massive blind arch you admire from a quick roadside pullout

InsideZion National Park

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.

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

Tips

Drive SR‑9; the park shuttle does not serve this highway.
If the pullout is full, continue driving and loop back later—don’t block traffic.
Aim for late afternoon for warm light; go early if you want easier parking.
Pair it with the Canyon Overlook Trail for a striking overhead perspective.
Bring water and a hat—there’s no shade or services at the pullout.