MOAB HIKING FIELD GUIDE
Along Poison Spider: A Four‑Hour Hike to a Hidden Arch
A guided four-hour outing that follows the Poison Spider Trailhead past dinosaur tracks and petroglyphs, through petrified sand dunes, and finishes at a secluded arch.
Along Poison Spider: A Four‑Hour Hike to a Hidden Arch.
Adventure brief
Along Poison Spider: A Four‑Hour Hike to a Hidden Arch
The Longbow Arch Hike threads a four‑hour route out of the Poison Spider Trailhead, leading walkers past fossilized dinosaur tracks and ancient petroglyphs before folding through petrified sand dunes to a concealed arch — a compact desert traverse that rewards careful observation as much as steady legs.
Set against the dramatic landscape of Moab, Utah, the Longbow Arch Hike offers spirited adventurers a unique journey through one of the region's most fascinating natural and cultural landmarks. This roughly four-hour trek launches from the Poison Spider Trailhead, a gateway into a world where red rock formations stretch into the sky and the traces of prehistoric life remain etched in stone. Ideal for hikers of all experience levels, the Longbow Arch Hike combines geological wonder, history, and impressive natural architecture, making it an outstanding outdoor activity in southeastern Utah.
Throughout the adventure, hikers are treated to a remarkable array of terrain. The trail navigates alongside petrified sand dunes, sculpted over millions of years, their textures and colors shifting with the sun's movement. Early in the route, the opportunity to spot authentic dinosaur tracks adds a thrilling connection to the area's ancient past. These fossilized footprints offer a tangible glimpse of life that roamed these lands tens of millions of years ago.
Moving onward, hikers encounter stunning petroglyphs etched into rock faces, mysterious artworks created by the ancestors of the native peoples who once called this area home. These markings highlight Moab's deep cultural heritage and provide enriching moments of reflection amid the wilderness.
The trail culminates at Longbow Arch, an impressive but somewhat hidden natural sandstone arch that rewards the effort with a majestic view. The arch frames the deep blue Utah sky, providing a perfect spot for photography and quiet contemplation away from the more crowded Moab attractions.
Elevate Outdoors Guiding runs this standout local experience, known for friendly, knowledgeable guides who help visitors safely navigate and fully appreciate the area’s natural and historical richness. Their expertise brings the story of Moab's geology and culture alive, making the hike not just a workout but an immersive adventure.
Moab itself serves as the perfect base, offering ample lodging and amenities while maintaining an adventurous spirit. Whether you’re here for this hike or exploring nearby Canyonlands and Arches National Parks, the Longbow Arch Hike is a remarkable addition to your itinerary. The hike’s accessible difficulty and rich variety of sights make it ideal for families, solo travelers, and seasoned hikers seeking lesser-known trails.
Prepare to experience a combination of rugged wilderness, traces of deep time, and a breathtaking, secluded arch—the Longbow Arch Hike reveals the wild heart of Moab in a way few other trails can.
Route Schematic
Route Schematic
Key stops and features along the Poison Spider Trailhead route.
Poison Spider Trailhead (Start)
The hike begins at the Poison Spider Trailhead, the access point for the route.
Dinosaur Tracks & Petroglyphs
Early along the route you pass preserved dinosaur tracks and petroglyphs set into the sandstone.
Petrified Sand Dunes
The trail winds through hardened, wind‑sculpted sand dunes that create smooth, sloping rock surfaces.
Hidden Arch (Finish)
The route culminates at a hidden arch — the endpoint and visual highlight of the hike.
No prior hiking experience is required; participants should be prepared for four hours on exposed desert terrain and bring sun protection and water.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Dinosaur Tracks and Petroglyphs
Early moments on the route bring unmistakable traces of the past: preserved dinosaur tracks and human‑made petroglyphs that punctuate the sandstone and narrate the landscape’s layered history.
Petrified Sand Dunes
Midway the trail winds through slabs of hardened, wind-sculpted sand — petrified dunes that change the hike’s feel from loose desert scrub to smooth, sloping stone.
A Hidden Arch Finish
The hike culminates at a tucked‑away arch, the endpoint of the route and a visually arresting reward after several miles of layered geology and cultural markers.
What the day feels like
What the Hike Feels Like
Over four hours the itinerary moves steadily from a classic trailhead out into exposed sandstone: you’ll scan the route for fossil tracks and carved glyphs, traverse tilted, smooth dune facades, and arrive at a secluded arch — a compact outing that pairs geological variety with cultural features.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this hike suits — and who should plan differently.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The outing is scheduled as a four‑hour hike.
Participants should bring water and sunscreen.
The route follows the Poison Spider Trailhead as the access and starting point.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Longbow Arch Hike?
The hike is four hours in duration.
Do I need previous hiking experience?
No prior experience is necessary for this hike.
What notable features will we see?
The route passes dinosaur tracks and petroglyphs, winds through petrified sand dunes, and finishes at a hidden arch.
What should I bring on the hike?
Bring water and sunscreen.
Where does the hike begin?
The hike follows and begins at the Poison Spider Trailhead.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-11-03T22:50:59.612Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.