Near Turret Arch Trail
Standing in the Eye
Near Turret Arch Trail
Turret Arch
Near Turret Arch Trail
Turret Arch with star trails
Near Turret Arch Trail
Sunset on the Windows Loop Trail in Arches National Park
Near Turret Arch Trail
Arches National Park.

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Hike Trail

Turret Arch Trail

4.3 (36 Ratings)
Visiting Turret Arch is a worthwhile detour off the Windows Loop Trail.
0.2
mi
Distance
54
ft
Gain
easy
Difficulty
Views

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
0.21mi
Distance
54ft
Elevation Gain
6ft
Elevation Loss
25%
Max Grade
5,258ft
High Point
5,200ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
Turret Arch is the smallest of the three arches you'll see on the Windows Loop Trail, but it is part of a more intricate, castle-like rock formation that includes a spire (hence the name). There are two holes in this formation, one you can walk through and one high up on the rock face. The views of the north and south Window Arches from inside the Turret Arch are neat. The trail to Turret Arch is a very gentle incline with only a few stairs. To reach Turret Arch from the Windows/Turret parking area, take the Windows Loop in either direction and look for the Turret Arch turn off. The most direct route would be the leg leaving to the south/southeast (rightmost trail facing the rock formations), the longer route would be the leg leaving north/northeast (leftmost trail facing the rock formations). But truly, the Windows Loop is delightful and short, so completing the entire loop and all of its spurs is highly recommended. Early morning is thought to be the best time to photograph Turret Arch for the best color.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Megan W