DIXIE NATIONAL FOREST • 0.7 MILES • HIDDEN GEM

THE "OTHER" ARCHES: A SECRET HIKE NEAR BRYCE CANYON

Escape the crowds of Bryce for this red rock wonderland just 30 minutes away.

Photo: ShaunasAdventures

⚡ The Quick Scoop

The Verdict: A miniature Arches National Park without the crowds. Perfect for families.

Difficulty: Easy / Moderate (Short loop but some loose footing)

Distance: 0.7 Mile Loop

Location: Losee Canyon, Dixie National Forest (Red Canyon Area)

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Wait, Arches National Park is near Bryce? No. But the Arches Trail is.

Located just 30 minutes west of the Bryce Canyon entrance, tucked away in the Dixie National Forest, lies a hidden loop that feels like a "greatest hits" album of Utah's geology. It has hoodoos, windows, tunnels, and yes—stand-alone arches—all packed into a hike less than a mile long.

If you need a break from the bumper-to-bumper traffic at Sunset Point, this is your escape hatch.

🌲 Pine Scented 🤫 Zero Crowds 🐕 Dog Friendly

Part I: Logistics

Finding The Trailhead

The trail is located in Losee Canyon, part of the Red Canyon section of Dixie National Forest. To get here, turn onto Losee Road just before you hit the main Red Canyon tourist center.

You'll travel down a dirt road for a few miles. While it does have washboards (the "Utah Massage"), there are no crazy rocks, so a standard sedan can usually make it if you take it slow.

🤫 The Local Whisper

Don't Blink: The turn-off is surprisingly easy to miss if you are cruising fast. Keep your eyes peeled for the small sign. Also, because this is BLM land, there are some great hidden camping spots tucked back here if you want to save money on a hotel.

Explore the trailhead in Google Maps 360 view.

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Part II: Virtual Reality

Step Inside The Hike

Want to see what it's really like before you lace up your boots? I filmed this trail in 360° VR. Throw on your headset (or just drag around on your phone screen) to transport yourself to the red rocks.

Insta360 Experience

Interactive 360 Player - Drag to look around!

YouTube VR Tour

Part III: Interactive Trail View

Walk Under The Arch

I took this 360° sphere right underneath one of the main arches. Spin it around to see the unique red rock ceiling!

Virtual Walk: Standing right under the arch.

Open in Google Earth 🌍

Part IV: On The Trail

Hoodoos, Arches, and Wizard Wands

Unlike National Park trails that keep you behind railings, this trail says "come play." It encourages you to explore spur trails and get right up close to the formations. You aren't just looking at the scenery; you are walking through it.

Choose Your Own Adventure

One of the best things about this hike is the social trails. I've hiked it four times, and I swear I end up on a slightly different path every time. There are so many spur trails that are safe to explore, making it feel like a "choose your own adventure" book.

The "Harry Potter" Trees

Keep your eyes peeled for the scorched trees along the path. I found two of them that were absolutely unique—the trunks spiral upward and look like they were struck by lightning. They look like massive Harry Potter wands waiting for a giant to pluck them from the earth.

The "Cages"

One of the quirks of this trail is the infrastructure. There are sections with wooden stairs made of railroad ties. While they look old and rustic, they felt very safe to me—I wasn't nervous at all. The only "sketchy" part? Trying to scramble up into the big arch. It's tricky, but fun if you like a puzzle!

Better than Fairyland? 🌟

I love the famous Fairyland Loop in Bryce, but you view the arch there from a distance. Here? You can walk right up to the window and touch the stone. If you want intimacy with the rock, this wins.

🤔 Frequently Asked Questions

Is there cell service?

No. I have never had a signal back here. Definitely download your maps while you are still on the highway.

When is the best time for photos?

Sunrise is popular, but the canyon walls here can create tricky shadows. Don't expect perfect golden light the moment the sun comes up; you might be in the shade for a bit!

Do I need a National Park Pass?

Nope. This trail is in the National Forest, which is generally free to access.

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