You Can Hike in Two States in One Day on This Arizona Trail

What is your favorite part of hiking in Arizona? Some hikers love that one day they could be scrambling across the red rocks in Sedona and the next, they’re standing at the South Rim overlooking the vast Grand Canyon. Since Arizona borders Utah, I like that there are cross-state trails featuring the best of both worlds. One in particular is from Stud Horse Point to Skylight Arch. Imagine trekking through a slot canyon and then perching on top of a mind-bending natural arch all in one day. Sounds like your idea of outdoor fun? Find out how you can hike two states at once in Arizona and Utah from Glen Canyon National Recreation Area in Page, AZ.

Trail Overview: Distance, Difficulty, and Scenic Highlights

Cross-state hiking trails are great for exploring the ever-changing terrain in Arizona. But let’s be honest, sometimes we prefer a short, sweet trek, where we can stretch our legs for a few hours. That’s where hiking from Stud Horse Point to Skylight Arch comes in.

This quick day hike winds through the sprawling desert terrain, with highlights including gardens of hoodoos, vast canyons, and a massive natural arch. Plus, you get to see the pretty blue waters of Lake Powell in the distance. 

The three-mile route is mostly flat with less than 300 feet of elevation gain. So, this trek is easy enough for casual hikers like me who want epic rewards without putting in too much work. However, getting to the starting point requires a bumpy drive along an unpaved rocky road off scenic Highway 89. You’ll need a four-wheel drive with high clearance to get here.

What to Expect Along the Trail: Wildlife, Terrain, and Views

Call me a rebel, but I enjoy hikes where I don’t have to follow an established path, and you can do that along this route. Since there are no restrictions on the trail at Stud Horse Point, you can make this hike your own. Near the starting point, you’ll have lots of chances to go off path to explore the hoodoos and the unique rock formations. The dramatic desert landscape stretches as far as the eye can see. 

After a short walk (less than a mile), you will be at the Utah border, and then you’ll connect to the official trailhead for Skylight Arch shortly after. The two-mile out‑and‑back trail stretches across the top of Stud Horse Canyon, and before you know it, you’ll be gazing at the jaw-dropping hole carved into the sandstone mesa. 

The arch is, without a doubt, one of the most striking natural wonders inside Glen Canyon. The massive opening was formed when portions of the sandstone weakened and collapsed. So, the arch looks like Mother Nature literally punched a hole in the mesa to allow the light to seep in — hence the name Skylight. Since this trail is exposed, if you’re afraid of heights, you might get a bit lightheaded if you get too close to the edge. After all, you’ll be standing about 5,000 feet above sea level here.  

How to Make the Most of Your Two-State Hike

It’s not every day you hike through two states at once, so needless to say, this trek is pretty cool. To make the best of it, hike during the cooler months. After all, it’s the desert, there is no shade, and we know the heat can be brutal. So, add this to your spring or fall list this year. I would avoid the monsoon season (June to September), as the area can become muddy and slippery. 

The best time of day to visit? The circular arch glows at sunrise and sunset as the light passes through the opening. Paired with the rich colors of the sandstone and the expansive desert landscapes, the scene becomes surreal. This is a short hike, and you might even have the trail to yourself. So, don’t rush, take your time, sit, reflect, gaze at the wide-open sky and desert terrain, and be humbled by how beautiful the American Southwest is.

Of course, you’ll want to have your camera with you to snap pics on this bucket-list-worthy adventure. One thing is for sure: this cross-state hike through Arizona and Utah will leave you with some lasting memories, and you will have some amazing pics for your Instagram too.

A quick note, there is a fee to enter Glen Canyon National Recreation Area that varies by vehicle or if you’re on foot. If you plan on visiting the park multiple times, it makes sense to purchase the annual pass, or you can also use your America the Beautiful Pass to gain access.

What do you think about this cross-state trail where you can hike two states at once in Arizona and Utah? Will you add it to your list this year? I hope so, it’s worth the views. If you need more inspiration, check out our top picks for hiking trails in Arizona. Even better? Use Only In Your State’s itinerary planner to discover more unique natural wonders in the Southwest.