USA Mesa Arch, Canyonlands National Park
This is one of the most unique scenic views of the world. It's probably the only arch where the rising sunlight reflects so that the glowing bottom of the arch appears.
Photography Tips
This phenomenon can only be captured at sunrise. Don't forget your tripod.
Check the sky for the Milky Way can be a great astro site. Also if you get there for Astro you can just stay until sunrise. At night the trail is difficult so bring red light. Bring wide and long lenses as there are plenty of great compositions beyond the arch itself.
The best moment to take a picture is a the sunrise when the sun is visible under the arch and illuminates the underside of the arch.
You need to take at least two pictures (Exposure bracketing) at different exposure so that on one you get the sun and the sky, and on the other you get the rocks and the underside illumination.
You have to come there at least one hour before sunrise. It is likely you'll not be alone that's why you must come early to get a place.
Check the sky for the Milky Way can be a great astro site. Also if you get there for Astro you can just stay until sunrise. At night the trail is difficult so bring red light. Bring wide and long lenses as there are plenty of great compositions beyond the arch itself.
The best moment to take a picture is a the sunrise when the sun is visible under the arch and illuminates the underside of the arch.
You need to take at least two pictures (Exposure bracketing) at different exposure so that on one you get the sun and the sky, and on the other you get the rocks and the underside illumination.
You have to come there at least one hour before sunrise. It is likely you'll not be alone that's why you must come early to get a place.
Travel Information
Take an accommodation in Moab. From Moab, it's about a 45-minute car drive to the parking area. Then 20 minutes walk. You'd better arrive early because there is just limited space and this place is very crowded even in the early morning.
Spot Type
Outdoor
Crowd Factor
Lots of people
Best Timing
Sunrise
Sunrise & Sunset
07:32 - 17:04
| current local time: 05:45
Photo Themes
arch
canyonlands
Canyonlands National Park
Canyons
colorful
Landscape
Mesa Arch
National Park
nature
Navajo Sandstone Arch
reflection
rivers
rock formation
Sun
Sunrise
utah
Spot Comments (3)