Highlight • Natural Monument
Hiking
5.0
(2)
Grosvenor Arch is a magnificent sandstone double arch located within the vast Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument in southern Kane County, Utah. Standing at an elevation of approximately 1,550 meters (5,100 feet), this impressive natural monument is a striking feature of the Colorado Plateau. Its unique double-arch formation, carved from Henrieville Sandstone, makes it a truly remarkable sight, towering over 150 feet high with its largest arch spanning nearly 100 feet.
Visitors are consistently captivated by the sheer scale and unique…
Tips
November 10, 2020
Hiking
August 25, 2023
Hiking
In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!
Sign up for free
Routes here
Best routes to Grosvenor Arch
392m
00:06
0m
0m
Details
Informations
Elevation 1,900 m
Access to Grosvenor Arch is via Cottonwood Creek Drive (Road 400). The initial section is paved, but it transitions to about 10.5 miles of dirt road. While generally accessible by passenger vehicles in dry conditions, this dirt section can be washboarded and sandy. It's important to note that the road can become impassable when wet, so checking local conditions before your visit is highly recommended.
Yes, Grosvenor Arch is notably accessible. A paved concrete sidewalk, approximately 0.2 miles long, leads from the parking area almost directly to the base of the arch. This makes it very accommodating for visitors with mobility impairments, allowing them to experience the natural monument up close.
No, there are no specific permits required to visit Grosvenor Arch or to access the immediate area around it within the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. It is open to the public for day use.
While the immediate paved path to Grosvenor Arch is generally accessible, specific regulations regarding dogs within the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument can vary. It's always best to keep dogs on a leash and ensure you pack out any waste. For the most current and detailed information on pet policies, it's advisable to check the official Bureau of Land Management (BLM) website for the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.
While Grosvenor Arch generally sees fewer visitors than other popular Utah arches, you can further minimize crowds by visiting during the shoulder seasons of late fall or early spring. Weekdays are also typically less busy than weekends. Summer can be hot and attract more visitors, while winter offers a serene experience but requires checking road conditions due to potential snow or mud.
The site is well-maintained and offers several convenient amenities. You'll find an outhouse restroom, cement benches, and picnic tables, making it a comfortable spot for a break or a meal amidst the scenic landscape.
Grosvenor Arch is somewhat remote, but nearby towns offer services and accommodation. Cannonville, about 18 miles north, and Henrieville are good options. You can find restaurants and other amenities in these areas, as well as near Kodachrome Basin State Park, which is approximately 7 to 10 miles southeast of the arch.
The paved path leads directly to the base, offering excellent close-up shots of the double arch. For panoramic views and different perspectives, explore the additional dirt paths that lead to nearby ridges. The unique yellowish hue, often speckled with pink, of the Henrieville Sandstone provides a stunning backdrop, especially during sunrise or sunset when the light enhances its colors.
Yes, Grosvenor Arch is located within the vast Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, which is rich with natural wonders. Kodachrome Basin State Park is a short drive away and features unique sandstone spires. The scenic drive along Cottonwood Creek Drive itself offers views of diverse erosional landscapes. Many hikers also explore other trails and viewpoints within the monument.
Since the main path to Grosvenor Arch is short and paved, minimal gear is needed for that specific walk. However, if you plan to explore the surrounding dirt paths or other areas within Grand Staircase-Escalante, sturdy hiking shoes, plenty of water, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and layers of clothing are recommended due to the desert environment and varying temperatures.