This 1/3 of a mile loop circles one of Arches’ most prominent landmarks. Balanced Rock is a defiant 55-foot tall block of Estrada Sandstone that rests on a narrow stand of Dewey Bridge Rock. As you approach Balanced Rock from the south, the impressive pillar looks like a ball resting on an old milk bottle. That shape changes as you tour around Balanced Rock, but no matter how you look at it, the rock’s ability to stay put is impressive.
The short hike around Balanced Rock only takes a few minutes, and it is equally enjoyable in both directions. Stone steps have been built in over the minimal changes in elevation, and the trail is wide and well maintained.
In time, this sandstone capstone will fall from its mudstone pedestal. Until then, Balanced Rock will draw the attention and imagination of everyone who visits Arches National Park. The parking lot has nice view of Balanced Rock, but the short trek is worth taking as the profile of the rock shifts dramatically from different angles.
To get to the trailhead: From the visitor center, drive 9.2 miles up Park Avenue to the turnout for Balanced Rock. You will see Balanced Rock coming from miles away.
Trailhead address: Arches Entrance Road (Park Avenue), Arches National Park, Moab, UT 84532
Trailhead coordinates: 38.70176, -109.56605 (38° 42′ 06.33″N 109° 33′ 57.78″W)
View Arches National Park in a larger map
Or view a regional map of surrounding Utah trails and campgrounds.
 | Double Arch This 0.8-mile hike visits a pair of connected arches in the Windows region of Arches National Park. |
 | Window Arches This one-mile loop presents three arches in close proximity, the North and South Windows and Turret Arch. |
 | Delicate Arch This 3-mile hike visits this most iconic arch in the world, a beautiful span that should not be missed. |
 | Landscape Arch This level 2.5-mile hike visits the longest natural arch in the world along with two other enjoyable arches. |
 | Skyline Arch This short 0.4-mile hike ends below a wide arch near the top of a sandstone fin. |
 | More trails in Utah Explore other hikes in Arches National Park and elsewhere. |
Did I see or hear on FOX NEWS that the balancing rock in ARCHES NATIONAL PARK had fallen. We were there in May 2014 …….and made pictures. PLEASE ADVISE ME ON ITS CONDITION……THANKS
I believe you’re thinking of Cobra Rock, which fell last week in the Moab area. Outside Magazine has more info on that fall.