Eye of the Whale Arch

We were in an 06 Explorer and had some trouble with some of the steeper sections. Probably due to my over-caution since we have to drive 1,500 miles home! There wasn’t much sand on the first half of the trail and I didn’t want to bottom out for fear of damaging something. We turned back after about 2 miles. We were able to clear everything we attempted, but I’d say this is more moderate than easy due to the deep ruts. A couple more inches of clearance would have eased my mind a bit. For reference, a stock Jeep might hit the rear bumper to clear some of the deeper stuff. A spotter helps!

Trail conditions were good. Be careful of jagged edge rocks that stick out in places. Smooth rock faces were present. Smooth rocky dome in a semi-sharp turn. Spotter would be good! Steep loose gravely section with larger rock. Sand present in some places with a 10-11° roll. Please be careful not to widen the trail due to cryptobiotic soil. (don’t bust the crust) Bronco sport badlands sasquatch handled everything PERFECTLY!

Fun trail to a nice arch (0.25 mile hike out to it) away from the crowds!

The Eye of the Whale Arch trail had great views and got us away from people in the park. A few obstacles, mostly due to ruts, made the trail a 3/10, but very accessible to new drivers. Stock GX460 w/KO2s, aired down.

Mostly easy with some rocky sections. No obstacles larger than 12 inches. Several places to pass.

Mostly easy to Eye of the Whale with some steep sections and areas requiring a stock 4x4 ground clearance. Wouldn’t advise for stock Subaru type vehicle.