Easy hikes and walks in Behind The Rocks Wilderness Study Area
4.8
(153)
2,452
hikers
60
hikes
Easy hiking trails in Behind The Rocks Wilderness Study Area traverse a landscape characterized by rugged and diverse geological formations. The region features massive Navajo sandstone domes, fins, and towering cliffs, creating a dramatic backdrop for exploration. Hikers will find slickrock, deeply cut canyons, and lofty rimlands, with unique erosional forms such as natural arches and hidden gardens scattered throughout the sandstone environment. While much of the area is barren, sections feature juniper and desert shrubs.
Best easy hiking trails in Behind The Rocks Wilderness Study Area
- The most popular easy hiking route is Moab Rim overlook – Views loop from Scott Matheson Wetlands Preserve, a 2.6 miles (4.1 km) trail that takes 1 hour 34 minutes to complete. This route offers varied desert terrain and views of the surrounding sandstone formations.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Moab Rim overlook – Views loop from Site 1 - Group Site, an easy 2.4 miles (3.9 km) path. This trail provides similar panoramic views of the Moab Rim landscape.
- Local hikers also love the Longbow Arch Trail, a 2.3 miles (3.7 km) trail leading through sandstone formations, often completed in about 1 hour 11 minutes.
- Hiking in Behind The Rocks Wilderness Study Area is defined by sandstone domes, natural arches, and deeply cut canyons. The network offers options for different ability levels, with a focus on easy hiking trails in this guide.
- The routes in Behind The Rocks Wilderness Study Area are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 100 reviews. More than 1,800 hikers have used komoot to explore Behind The Rocks Wilderness Study Area's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
10
hikers
3.92km
01:31
270m
280m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
6.49km
01:52
160m
160m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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8
hikers
2.97km
01:16
270m
270m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.29km
01:20
260m
10m
Embark on the Tukuhnikivatz Arch Trail, an easy hike that guides you through the striking landscape of the Behind the Rocks Wilderness Study Area. This route offers expansive views as you follow the canyon rim, culminating in the impressive Tukuhnikivatz Arch. The trail covers 2.7 miles (4.3 km) with an elevation gain of 851 feet (259 metres), typically taking about 1 hour and 20 minutes to complete.
To make the most of your visit, plan your hike between March and November when conditions are generally favorable. While the overall trail is easy, be prepared for a short, roughly quarter-mile scramble near the arch. This final section involves a steep gully with a faint path and loose, rocky spots, so wear appropriate footwear and watch your step.
The highlight of this trail is undoubtedly the Tukuhnikivatz Arch, which provides a natural frame for Mount Tuk and the distant La Sal Mountains. This unique geological feature creates a memorable vista, especially when the La Sal Mountains are capped with snow in the spring. The trail's location within the wilderness area ensures a true desert experience with vast sandstone domes surrounding you.
5.0
(5)
50
hikers
3.74km
01:11
150m
150m
Hike the Longbow Arch Trail near Moab, Utah, an easy 2.3-mile route featuring dinosaur tracks, petroglyphs, and desert views.
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Tips from the Community
Enjoy sweeping views of the Moab Valley, with the distinctive formations of Arches National Park visible to the left and the La Sal Mountains towering over 3,800 meters on the horizon.
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A really nice place for a break under the Arch Rock. The view is also great. We hiked there in the afternoon at the beginning of January and were the only ones there. But it is probably quite crowded in the season or in the middle of the day.
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The "Stairmaster" trail (a section of the Moab Rim Trail) gets its name from the fact that you gain over 900 feet in the first mile of hiking! As you climb up the trail you get fantastic views of the Colorado River and the towering sandstone cliffs that loom over Potash Road. This is a great challenging trail that is best done either in the cooler months or with an early start to beat the heat!
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Great views on the Moab valley, the Arches National Park at the left (you can even see an arche !) and the La Sal mountain range with its summits above 3800 meters of elevation.
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Longbow Arch is an attractive arch that in comparison to the nearby Corona Arch is quite peaceful. This spot is a great place to look down at the cliffside that the arch is a part of and snap some photos. Although you can go down to the base of the arch, some scrambling is required and it can be loose and rocky so be sure to wear proper footwear and feel confident in your abilities!
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This remarkable spot just yards off of Potash Road is where you can see not only Dinosaur Tracks, but also ancient Native American Petroglyphs. The dinosaur tracks were made by Therapods about 190 million years when this spot was actually a sandy shore of a lake. The route from the tracks to the petroglyphs is not well marked but if you continue up the hill a little higher, there is a well-traveled social trail that will take you to the base of the cliff. The oldest petroglyphs at this site were most likely made by the Fremont people, who lived in this area between 600 A.D. and 1300 A.D. The Fremont figures are of animals, lines of triangular figures with horns, spears and shields. The newer petroglyphs, were most likely completed by the Ute people after the 16th century. Ute rock art often depicts people on horseback and hunting scenes. Horses were not introduced to the area until after 1500 by the Spanish, which is how archeologists are able estimate the age of the petroglyphs and who did them. As will all archeological sites, please do not touch the dinosaur tracks or the petroglyphs, both are quite fragile.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available in Behind The Rocks Wilderness Study Area?
There are over 30 easy hiking trails in Behind The Rocks Wilderness Study Area, offering a variety of experiences through its unique desert landscape. In total, the area features 56 hiking routes across various difficulty levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on easy hikes in Behind The Rocks Wilderness Study Area?
Easy hikes in Behind The Rocks Wilderness Study Area primarily feature slickrock, sandstone domes, fins, and towering cliffs. You'll traverse varied desert terrain, with some routes leading through deeply cut canyons and offering views of natural arches and hidden gardens. While 60% of the area is barren, you'll also find juniper and desert shrubs.
Are there any family-friendly easy hikes in the area?
Yes, several easy trails are suitable for families. For instance, the Funnel Arch Trail is a shorter option, and the Longbow Arch Trail is also a great choice for a family outing, leading through impressive sandstone formations.
Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails?
Behind The Rocks Wilderness Study Area is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and generally, dogs are permitted on trails as long as they are on a leash and you practice Leave No Trace principles. Always check specific trailhead signage for any local restrictions. Remember to bring plenty of water for both yourself and your pet, especially in the desert environment.
What are some interesting natural features or landmarks to see on easy hikes?
The area is rich with unique geological formations. On easy hikes, you can discover natural arches like Longbow Arch, Funnel Arch, and Tukuhnikivatz Arch. You might also encounter hidden gardens, petroglyphs, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the Colorado River from certain overlooks.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Behind The Rocks Wilderness Study Area?
The best time to visit for easy hikes is typically during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when temperatures are milder. Summer can be extremely hot, making hiking challenging, while winter can bring cold temperatures, though snow is less common at lower elevations.
Are there any circular easy hiking routes?
Yes, several easy routes are designed as loops. For example, the Moab Rim overlook – Views loop from Scott Matheson Wetlands Preserve and the Moab Rim overlook – Views loop from Site 1 - Group Site both offer circular paths with varied desert terrain and scenic views.
Where can I park for easy trail access?
Trailheads for easy routes often have designated parking areas. For routes like the Moab Rim overlook loops, you can typically find parking near the starting points mentioned in the route descriptions, such as near the Scott Matheson Wetlands Preserve or Site 1 - Group Site.
What wildlife might I see on an easy hike?
The diverse landscape supports various wildlife. Keep an eye out for mule deer, coyote, bobcat, cottontail, and desert bighorn sheep. The cliffs also provide nesting habitats for raptors like red-tailed hawks, great horned owls, and prairie falcons.
Do I need a permit to hike in Behind The Rocks Wilderness Study Area?
As a Wilderness Study Area managed by the BLM, day hiking in Behind The Rocks generally does not require a permit. However, it's always a good idea to check the official BLM website for any current regulations or advisories before your visit.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the easy trails here?
The easy trails in Behind The Rocks Wilderness Study Area are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning geological formations, the sense of solitude, and the panoramic views of the Moab Rim and surrounding desert landscape.
Are there any beginner-friendly hiking routes?
Absolutely. This guide focuses specifically on easy trails, many of which are perfect for beginners. Routes like the Funnel Arch Trail offer a gentle introduction to the area's unique scenery without significant elevation gain or technical challenges.
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