When in Arches National Park visit Sand Dune Arch, an impressive natural monument. Made of glowing red rock, the structure is named for the pile of sand at its foot that was carried here by strong winds within the park. Embark on a trek along the Broken Arch Trail, admiring the array of impressive rock structures around you.
Break off from the trail and amble down a small spur path to reach the arch. Snap photos of the massive curved rock, which is flanked by a pair of large sandstone fins. Capture shots of your friends or family members directly beneath the arch to get a sense of the sheer size of the structure. Enjoy views of the mountains capped by snow in the distance. The arch makes an ideal frame for the vista. Set up a picnic beside the shrubbery and arid vegetation as you enjoy the complete stillness of Arches National Park.
Pass beneath the arch and continue along the trail, which soon reaches its natural end. Walk through this slot canyon at a narrow point in the gorge and listen to your voice echoing between the red rock walls.
Because of its position relative to adjacent rock formations, the arch stands in the shade for much of the day. Join in the tradition of removing your shoes and feeling the sand between your toes. The sand gets a bit hot in the summer sun, but offers cool and refreshing relief the rest of the year.
Sand Dune Arch is in the northern part of Arches National Park, on the eastern side of Utah. Travel north from the city of Moab for 20 miles (30 kilometers) to arrive here by car in about 40 minutes. The arch is just a short walk from the parking area. Continue on the trail to Broken Arch and Tapestry Arch.
Explore the surroundings for some of the other highlights of the Devil’s Garden district, such as Double O Arch, Skyline Arch and Dark Angel. You’ll need to pay the national park fee to access any of these sites.
