
From Moab, head north on HWY 191, then turn left for Potash Road (UT-279). Follow this road as it parallels the Colorado River, and you’ll see a sign for the Poison Mesa Spider trail/Dinosaur Tracks. Park in the dirt parking lot. The trail starts to the East in the parking lot, behind the port-a-potty.
Here’s a driving map.
Distance: 2.4 miles RT
Elevation gain: 345 ft
Time: 1-2 hours
Dog friendly? Yes, off leash
Kid friendly? Yes
Fees/Permits? None
The trail begins from the Poison Spider Mesa TH, a popular route for Jeeps and Razors looking to off-road. Start by hiking past the restroom. The dinosaur tracks and petroglpyhs are close to the flat/tall rock wall.
Hike up the slickrock, following cairns.
You can skip the dino tracks and petroglyphs and go straight to the arch, but if you are there might as well take an extra 5 minutes to check them out. We turned right for the dino tracks.
Keep hiking up and past the dino tracks to see the petroglyphs.
There are a ton of petroglyphs along the wall, but these were my favorite.
Hike along the tall rock wall, and you will meet up with another trail sign for Long Bow Arch. Heather has done this hike several times so it was nice to have another person lead!
Hike up this small gulley, and reach the wire ladder.
Climbing up the ladder – dogs should be able to jump/run up this section.
Follow the cairns as you make your way higher and reach the mesa.
As you follow the green paint marks, don’t forget to look up at your surroundings! You should see Long Bow Arch to the right (Southeast).
First, you’ll hike up a small gulley below the arch.
Amazed at how big this arch is!
Group photo!
We loved this trail!
Trail map.
