Park Avenue Trail

The Park Avenue Trail is located in Arches National Park. You can access it from the Park Avenue Viewpoint Trailhead. Parking is available at the trailhead. If you plan to hike one-way, you can arrange a shuttle to pick you up at the Courthouse Towers Viewpoint.

Yes, Arches National Park requires an entrance fee. You can find detailed information about current fees and any necessary permits on the official nps.gov website.

No, pets are generally not allowed on unpaved trails in Arches National Park, including the Park Avenue Trail. They are permitted in developed areas, along roads, and in campgrounds, but must be on a leash no longer than six feet.

The late afternoon is particularly recommended for photography, as the sunlight illuminates the rock walls in vibrant reds and oranges, creating dramatic shadows. However, to avoid the heat, especially during warmer months, early mornings are also ideal. The trail can be challenging in hot weather due to its exposure.

The terrain varies significantly. It begins with a paved path to a viewpoint, followed by a steep descent via stairs into the canyon. Once on the canyon floor, the path is primarily a boot-beaten dirt trail that transitions to slickrock and sand. Expect sandy and rocky stretches, and in some areas, the path may be less defined, requiring reliance on rock cairns for navigation. Good grip shoes are highly recommended.

You'll be immersed in a 'grand boulevard of rock' with massive sandstone monoliths. Notable formations include View of the Three Gossips, Sheep Rock and the Tower of Babel, Courthouse Tower and Three Gossips Viewpoint, Queen Nefertiti, Queen Victoria Rock, and The Organ. The trail itself is named after the impressive Park Avenue canyon.

The Park Avenue Trail is primarily an out-and-back route if you start from the Park Avenue Viewpoint Trailhead. However, it can also be hiked as a one-way trail, ending at the Courthouse Towers Viewpoint, if you arrange a shuttle.

It's generally rated as easy to moderate. The main challenge for joggers is the initial steep descent (and subsequent ascent if doing an out-and-back) involving a long flight of stairs. The canyon floor is mostly flat with a gentle downhill gradient, but the uneven surfaces, sand, and occasional rocky sections require careful footing. The total distance is about 1.8 to 2 miles roundtrip.

Yes, if you wish to avoid the steep stairs on an out-and-back journey, you can start your jog from the north end of the trail, which is the Courthouse Towers Viewpoint. This allows you to descend the stairs at the beginning and then ascend them at the end, or simply do a one-way hike if you arrange a shuttle.

Yes, the route primarily follows the official Park Avenue Trail. However, it also passes through sections of the Park Avenue Canyoneering Approach Trail.

Given the varied terrain, good grip shoes are essential. Dress in layers, as temperatures can change, and bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as the trail is exposed. Sun protection like a hat and sunscreen is also highly recommended.