During my weekend running the Thelma and Louise Half Marathon, I was able to hit two short hikes the Friday before race day.

Now, while Arches National Park is spectacular and Canyonlands National Park is breath-taking, they are packed during the season. I’m not saying skip them, please don’t, but if you want a break from the major tourist crowds, these two trails will do just that. They will be busy, but not like the National Parks.


Corona Arch Trail / Little Rainbow Bridge

Corona Arch Trail -  The arch

Mileage: 3 roundtrip with 440 feet elevation gain

Attraction: A freestanding arch with a 140 x 105 foot opening

I have a thing for slick rock. In that I think it’s gorgeous and a ton of fun to play on and climb. This trail offers plenty. In fact, you have to follow the cairns to find the right way up and over to the arch.

That’s the other thing I have a thing for: cairns. Make sure you keep an eye out for them as you hike along.

Corona Arch Trail - Cairns

This trail offers a little bit of adventure. There is a short ladder to help you over a steep section of rock (and to keep people on the trail), plus two sections of cables and foot holds for the same purpose.

Corona Arch Trail - Cables and Foot Holds

When I hiked it, granted it was a rainy day, there was one other person out there. Note: You can hear everything people say from the other side of the “bowl”. Rocks echo people.

Negro Bill Canyon to Morning Glory Bridge

Morning Glory Bridge

Mileage: 4 miles round trip with 330 feet elevation gain

Attraction: The 6th largest rock bridge in the US at 243 feet in length.

This sandy, mellow trail is easy to navigate and walk. The only challenging part is the 9 stream crossings you take as you head back into the canyon. Most the of the crossings have stones strategically placed, while other crossings are a little wobbly.

Morning Glory Bridge - River Crossings

The bridge itself is fairly awe-inspiring. Tucked back into a protected area, a little stream coming out from under it, and plenty of sandy spots for a picnic or play. I couldn’t see a way to get on top of it, but I’m sure where there’s a will, there’s a way.

This trail was a bit busier than Corona Arch Trail with families and children of all ages, but it never felt overly crowded.

Morning Glory Bridge Trail - Family Friendly

RQ: What is your favorite mostly-off-the-beaten path trail or place?

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