Spirit Arch and Petroglyph Canyon in San Rafael Swell BLM, UT

Hike Spirit Arch and Petroglyph Canyon San Rafael Swell BLM, UT

Class 1 2.0 miles Minimal gain 1-2 hr Out + Back Sep 28, 2016
Effort
Beauty
Personality
Solitude

Spirit Arch and Petroglyph Canyon GPX Track

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Spirit Arch is a quick outing helpful for breaking up long drives. It's accessed from the San Rafael Swell View Area. I hiked into two side canyons, one with faded petroglyphs and another with a pretty arch visible high above. I always wanted to explore the section of the Swell that the interstate passes through after doing it so many times. To reach the petroglyphs, leave the View Area and cross over a fence. Continue north toward the Swell and head up two drainages to reach the double-whammy of petroglyphs and an arch.

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The San Rafael Swell, looking at the section of Interstate 70 that goes directly through it. I took this shot shortly after leaving the scenic rest area.
The San Rafael Swell, looking at the section of Interstate 70 that goes directly through it. I took this shot shortly after leaving the scenic rest area.
Found a trail along the way, but it probably wasn't necessary to follow it.
Found a trail along the way, but it probably wasn't necessary to follow it.
The first side canyon with cool colors before reaching the petroglyph canyon.
The first side canyon with cool colors before reaching the petroglyph canyon.
Image 3 from gallery
Along the edge of the Swell, headed toward the petroglyph canyon.
Along the edge of the Swell, headed toward the petroglyph canyon.
The entrance to petroglyph canyon. The petroglyphs are on the right side wall.
The entrance to petroglyph canyon. The petroglyphs are on the right side wall.
The faded petroglyphs, with some sort of graffiti or maybe attempted theft?
The faded petroglyphs, with some sort of graffiti or maybe attempted theft?
Continuing toward the Spirit Arch canyon.
Continuing toward the Spirit Arch canyon.
Heading up toward Spirit Arch.
Heading up toward Spirit Arch.
Image 9 from gallery
Spirit Arch becomes visible on the top left.
Spirit Arch becomes visible on the top left.
Image 11 from gallery
Spirit Arch!
Spirit Arch!
One more photo of the San Rafael Swell on the way out.
One more photo of the San Rafael Swell on the way out.

Hire me or show me some love!

Hire/refer me as a web developer or send me a few bucks if you find my site useful. I’m not sponsored, so all fees are out-of-pocket and my time preparing trip reports is unpaid. I really appreciate it!