Cobra Arch is one of my all-time favorite arches! The hike is beautiful, and the arch itself is really cool. The arch rises up 30 feet from the ground and spans 35 feet from end to end, and it actually looks like a huge, venomous, hooded stone cobra from the right angle!
Directions to the Cobra Arch/ Middle Route Trailhead
Cobra Arch is located in southern Utah, west of Page, Arizona, and east of Kanab, Utah, near a small town called Paria. You will know you’re in Paria when you see the Paria River. You will also see a sign and building on the side of the road that says “Outpost.” Turn toward the Outpost sign onto Long Canyon Road (Kane County Road 6020/BLM 750). As soon as you turn toward the Outpost, pull over and set your trip meter to zero. Cobra Arch can be very difficult to find, and knowing exactly when and where to turn is helpful.
Drive up Long Canyon Road until you come to a gate. You will pen and close the gate after the second cattle guard and cross Long Canyon at 1.1 miles. The canyon soon slots up, the road on its left. Pass the third cattle guard at 2.7 miles and cross the wash for the last time at 3.3 miles. The road then climbs the center of a narrow “spine” (Do not attempt when wet!) to West Clark Bench at 4.2 miles.
Avoid all roads branching off to the right. At 5.1 miles, stay straight on BLM 750, avoiding a turn to the right and then the left. The road is subject to sandy patches, and there is one short stony cluster that requires good clearance. Park at 7.8 miles, where there is a green gate and a Middle Route Trailhead sign and register box.
Be Cautious of Road Conditions
Please note that the road conditions in Long Canyon change frequently. There are years when the road has been washed out and completely impassable and years when it has been smooth and easy. If rain is expected or the road is muddy, I would not take it. It’s best to take a 4X4 high-clearance vehicle to get to the Cobra Arch Trailhead. In addition to ruts, there are areas of deep sand and occasional boulders.
The Hike to Cobra Arch
The hike to Cobra Arch is 7.4 miles round trip. From the trail register, begin walking south along the fence line until you soon reach a cliff band with views south of Buckskin Gulch. Climb the fence to the right and look for a break in the cliff band, which will allow you to get to the bench. From there, you should be able to pick up a moderately traveled path. You will walk in a southeasterly direction, and the cliff band on your left will fade back into a drainage and then extend back out again. Where it extends out, you’ll see an upper cliff band and a lower one. The arch is located in the lower set; you’ll want to continue along a route that roughly parallels Buckskin Gulch.
After the route begins to bend to the northeast and you have a full view of a large mounded plateau off in the distance to the east, look for the Cobra Arch to the north among a group of red rocks. The arch sneaks up on you, and you can’t see it until it’s right in front of you. Return the way you came.
If you use Alltrails or Gia, I highly recommend downloading and following a trail map, as the path is not always easy to follow.
What to Bring
When preparing for a hike to Cobra Arch or any hiking adventure, it’s important to be well-prepared to ensure your safety and enjoyment. Here’s a list of items you should consider bringing:
- Water: Stay hydrated by bringing an ample supply of water. The amount depends on the length and difficulty of the hike.
- Snacks: Pack energy-boosting snacks like granola bars, nuts, or trail mix to keep your energy levels up.
- Comfortable Footwear: Wear sturdy and comfortable hiking shoes or boots with good traction to navigate the terrain.
- Weather-Appropriate Clothing: Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly. Bring layers, a hat, and sunglasses for sun protection.
- Navigation Tools: Carry a map, compass, or GPS device to help you navigate the trail.
- Backpack: Use a backpack to carry your essentials comfortably.
- First Aid Kit: Have a basic first aid kit with bandages, pain relievers, and any necessary personal medications.
- Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun by applying sunscreen before starting your hike.
- Camera: Capture the scenic views along the way with a camera or smartphone.
- Emergency Whistle: Carry an emergency whistle for signaling in case of emergencies.
- Personal ID and Contact Information: Carry identification and a note with emergency contact information.
- Trash Bags: Practice Leave No Trace principles by bringing trash bags to pack out your waste.
Always check local regulations and trail conditions specific to Cobra Arch, and let someone know your plans before heading out. Safety should be a priority on any hike.
Leave It Better Than You Found It
Please do your part to keep Cobra Arch beautiful by packing out everything you pack in and not changing the landscape. Remember to 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!