The Windows Viewpoint and Trail

North Window invites you to walk up and look through it.

NPS/Veronica Verdin

Quick Facts

Amenities

4 listed

Parking - Auto, Parking - Bus/RV, Toilet - Vault/Composting, Trailhead

The Windows Section is located 12 miles (19 km) from the park entrance. Massive North Window is visible from the parking lot. Trails lead to Turret Arch, North Window, South Window, and Double Arch. Limited oversize parking is available at the lower lot near Double Arch. Toilets are open year-round. There is no drinking water available at the trailhead.

• Roundtrip Distance: 1 mi (1.6 km) 

• Time: 30-60 min 

• Elevation Change: 99 ft (30 m) 

• Difficulty: Easy 

• Hike Description: A gentle climb up a gravel trail leads to the massive North Window, South Window, and Turret Arch. Return via the same trail or take the longer primitive route to loop around before returning to the park lot. The primitive section has fewer trail markers; pay close attention to remain on trail. 
• Trail Tip: Across from this trailhead, a connector trail descends to the lower parking lot and Double Arch trailhead. Consider parking in one place and walking between the two lots, if you want to see more arches.

• Accessibility: The first 300 ft (91 m) of this trail is considered barrier free and may be accessible to wheelchairs. Reaching the base of the arches requires walking up a slope and some rock stairs. The primitive section of trail is very uneven with steps up and steps down. 

• Dogs are not allowed on this trail. Service animals are allowed in national parks. What is a service animal?

The Windows Section is considered by some to be the beating heart of Arches National Park. The area contains a large concentration of arches and is one of the most scenic locations in the park. North Window, Turret Arch, and Double Arch are just a few of the awe-inspiring expanses you’ll find in just over two square miles. Other named features in this area include Garden of Eden, Elephant Butte, and Parade of Elephants.