

Hype:
Ruin Arch is a small natural sandstone arch located along Buckhorn Draw Road in the San Rafael Swell of central Utah. Tucked in the cliffs near the Morrison Knudsen Tunnels are the secluded arch and some small petroglyphs. From the tunnel trailhead, head south across the wash, then go turn southeast. Follow the social trail up the slope and slickrock to reach the arch, where you’ll find petroglyphs, a small wall, and excellent views of Upper Buckhorn Wash.
Trail Condition: Class 3 (Trail may have sections where hands are needed. Trail may not be visible in spots or may not exist at all.)
Time: 30 minutes
Length: 0.66 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 75 ft
Fees: None
Recommended Ages:
![]() | 0-3 |
![]() | 4-11 |
![]() | 12-19 |
![]() | 20-49 |
![]() | 50-69 |
![]() | 70+ |
Recommended Months to Visit:
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| Feb |
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Links: https://www.roadtripryan.com/go/t/utah/san-rafael-swell/buckhornwash
Closest City or Region: Castle Dale, Utah
Coordinates: 39.162732, -110.733471
By Jeremy Dye
Tara and I hiked to the Morrison Knudsen tunnels and Ruin Arch.
Lower Cedar Mountain Road Primitive Camping
San Rafael River Swinging Bridge
Lower Cedar Mountain Road Primitive Camping
Buckhorn Draw Dinosaur Footprint
Buckhorn Wash Pictograph Panel
Cleveland-Lloyd Dinosaur Quarry
San Rafael River Swinging Bridge