Grosvenor Arch is a unique, natural double arch that towers 150 feet above the ground. The arch is located near Cottonwood Canyon Road in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument in Utah, USA. Cottonwood Canyon Road is a scenic drive that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, including stunning rock formations and impressive canyons.
Exploring Grosvenor Arch, along with other sites on Cottonwood Canyon Road, offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the Utah desert landscape. If you plan to visit, check road conditions, be prepared for the environment, and consider the best time of year for your trip.
Directions to Grosvenor Arch
Grosvenor Arch is located on Cottonwood Canyon Road, which starts or ends (depending on the direction you are traveling) just off Highway 89 west of Big Water, Utah, or State Route 12 South of Cannonville, Utah.
The arch is closest to Cannonville, Utah. Take state route 12 south of Cannonville for approximately 9 miles. This is a paved road to the Kodachrome State Park turnoff. Continue on Cottonwood Canyon Road, a graded dirt road, for another 10 miles to the Grosvenor Arch parking lot.
If you travel from Big Water, Grosvenor Arch will be at the end of Cottonwood Canyon Road. There are signs to direct you to the arch.
Hiking to Grosvenor Arch
Reaching Grosvenor Arch doesn’t require much hiking; it’s a short walk on a paved sidewalk from the parking lot. One cool thing about Grosvenor Arch is walking right up under the arches and seeing the sky above.
If you’re looking for a longer or more challenging hike, there are many in the area. Check out hikes along Cottonwood Canyon Road.
Fun Facts
- Grosvenor Arch was named after Dr. Gilbert Grosvenor, a president of the National Geographic Society, after an expedition to the area.
- Grosvenor Arch is two arches standing 150 feet above the ground. The largest arch is nearly 100 feet in diameter.
Best Time to Visit Grosvenor Arch
The best time to visit Grosvenor’s Arch and the surrounding Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is typically spring and fall. During these seasons, the weather is more moderate, with milder temperatures and less extreme heat compared to the summer months.
Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) offer comfortable outdoor activities and hiking temperatures.
It’s advisable to check the specific weather conditions for your visit and be prepared for varying temperatures. Additionally, keep in mind that summer can be pretty hot in this region, so if you prefer milder weather, it’s recommended to plan your visit during the shoulder seasons. In addition, winter can be cold, and Cottonwood Canyon Road is often impassable after rain or snow.
Always check the weather conditions and road accessibility before planning your visit. Cottonwood Canyon Road is a dirt road, and its state can vary, especially after weather events.
There’s More to Explore
If you want to go hiking, Grosvenor Arch is not the best place to go. However, there are many nearby areas with great hiking opportunities that you can add to your trip.
Cottonwood Canyon Road
Cottonwood Canyon Road offers several different hikes. As you drive along the road, you will see pull-offs for the Cottonwood Canyon Narrows, Yellow Rock, and more.
Hackberry Canyon
Hackberry Canyon is a popular canyon hike in Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument. The upper canyon has sandstone cliffs and a wide, sandy wash. A short detour up the canyon leads to a spring, pool, and small arch. Further up, the canyon is a tight and scenic slot canyon.
Buckskin Gulch
Buckskin Gulch is one of the world’s longest and deepest slot canyons, offering stunning views and hiking opportunities.
Round Valley Draw
Round Valley Draw is another scenic area with interesting rock formations and an amazing slot canyon.
Leave It Better Than You Found It
Remember to do your part to make Grosvenor Arch beautiful by packing out everything you pack in and not changing the landscape. Respect nature and follow ethical practices when engaging in outdoor activities. Always leave a place better than you found it and practice the principles of Leave No Trace. Enjoy your time exploring the trails and discovering the area’s hidden treasures!