Druid Arch Loop
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Druid Arch Loop
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The Druid Arch Loop is a fantastic adventure for experienced hikers. This trail leads you to the Druid Arch: a 150-foot formation of cedar mesa sandstone, named for its resemblance to Stonehenge. This trail continues from the arch with a tour of the Needles District, featuring varied terrain and stunning desert views.
The name of this trailhead is offensive, efforts to rename sections of Canyonlands National Park are ongoing.
Getting there
From the Needles Visitors Center, follow Needles Main Park Road for 3.0mi then turn off towards Squaw Flat Campground. Take a left at the fork and follow the road for one mile to the Squaw Flat Trailhead.
About
| Backcountry Campground | Camping at trailhead, Big Springs Canyon Campsite #1, Elephant Canyon Campsites 1, 2, and 3 |
| When to do | April to November |
| Pets allowed | No |
| Family friendly | No |
| Route Signage | Average |
| Crowd Levels | Low |
| Route Type | Lollipop |
Druid Arch Loop
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Druid Arch Loop Description
The Druid Arch Loop is a beautiful, long hike in the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park. This route can either be done as an ambitious day hike or broken up over a couple of days by camping at one of the many campsites along the trail. Camping at these campsites requires a backcountry overnight permit that you can purchase either in person at the Parks office or online. If you plan on hiking this route in one day, be sure to start early and arrive prepared with sturdy shoes, salty snacks to replenish your electrolytes, and more water than you think you need. No matter how you do this trail, the otherworldly beauty of this hike will surely leave you with a renewed passion for the Utah desert.
From the trailhead, follow the path southwest. Stay right at the first fork and left at the next two forks. At the Elephant Canyon Campsite # 2, take the path on the right to follow Elephant Canyon down and back to Druid Arch. Once back at Campsite #2, take the left-hand trail to follow the loop back up to the trailhead. There are three divisions along this last section: keep right at the first and left at the following two.
Once back at the trailhead, you can either spend the night camping under the stars at the campground or head on home for some well-deserved rest.
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