Spirit Arch Trail

Spirit Arch Canyon is located in the northern section of San Rafael Swell (north of U.S. 70). The trailhead is at the mouth of a dry wash in the shade, which is rare for this area. From the parking area there are two trails. The one straight into a vegetated area is a dead end. Follow the trail to the left that parallels the cliffs of San Rafael Swell (this is the same trail to reach Petroglyph Canyon). The trail will gradually round a corner and enter a dry wash. Cross the wash and ascend a steep hill with the wash on the right. The trail traverses above the wash until it makes a right turn back toward the wash. Keep right and follow into a box canyon. High on the left side of the canyon wall is a small arch that looks more like a sliver and another larger oval arch just below it. They are small and can easily be missed. The canyon is also referred to as Double Arch Canyon. Return the way you came. You can also add a side trip to another shallow box canyon to see some petroglyphs.