Courthouse Wash Panel Trail

The trailhead for the Courthouse Wash Panel Trail is located near the junction of Highway 191 and Highway 128, just north of Moab, Utah. You can park in a small pull-off area directly off Highway 191, close to the Colorado River bridge. This allows for direct access to the trail without needing to enter the main Arches National Park fee station.

No, you do not need a permit or to pay the Arches National Park entrance fee to access the Courthouse Wash Panel Trail. While it is located within the park's boundaries, its trailhead is outside the main entrance station, making it freely accessible.

National Park Service regulations generally prohibit pets on unpaved trails in Arches National Park. Therefore, dogs are not permitted on the Courthouse Wash Panel Trail itself. They are typically allowed only on paved roads, parking areas, and in campgrounds.

The best time to hike this trail is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when temperatures are milder. Summers can be very hot, and winters can bring cold temperatures, though the trail is generally accessible year-round. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal to avoid the midday heat and for optimal lighting to view the rock art.

The trail leads to a significant panel featuring both pictographs (painted images) and petroglyphs (carved images). You'll see ancient Barrier Canyon style human-like figures, believed to be 1,500 to 4,000 years old, as well as later additions like bright white circular forms resembling shields. The panel is approximately 19 feet high by 52 feet long, showcasing thousands of years of indigenous history.

The Courthouse Wash pictograph panel is considered one of the most unique rock art sites in Arches National Park due to its blend of styles and its age, spanning thousands of years. It also holds historical significance as a crucial crossing point for the Colorado River. The panel underwent restoration after vandalism, which revealed even older pictographs, adding to its archaeological value.

The initial section of the trail is paved and level, offering some accessibility. Beyond this, it becomes a dirt path with a brief, uneven rock surface climb. While generally easy, some sections may have loose rocks and require minor scrambling to get closer to the rock art. For those unable to scramble, binoculars are recommended for viewing from a distance.

Yes, the Courthouse Wash Panel Trail is generally considered easy and suitable for families and beginners. The roundtrip to the rock art panel is short, about 0.8 miles (1.4 km), with minimal elevation gain, making it a 'low effort, big reward' experience. However, be aware of the brief uneven rock section.

Yes, beyond the short panel trail, there is a longer, approximately 5.5-mile route that follows Courthouse Wash itself. This route involves hiking along a sandy wash and may include wading through ankle to knee-deep water, with very little elevation change. It's rated as easy for moderately experienced hikers.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Moab Canyon Pathway and the Courthouse Wash Trail.

Even for this short trail, it's advisable to bring water, especially during warmer months. Sun protection like a hat and sunscreen is also recommended. If you want a closer look at the rock art without scrambling, binoculars can be very useful. Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for dirt paths and uneven surfaces.

To preserve these ancient cultural resources, it is crucial not to touch the rock art. The oils from your skin can damage the delicate pigments and carvings. Binoculars can enhance your viewing experience, allowing you to see details from a respectful distance. Remember to take only pictures and leave only footprints.