Broken Bow Arch via Willow Gulch Trail is a 6.3 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Lake Powell, Utah that features a river and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, nature trips, and bird watching and is best used from March until November. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area charges a fee to enter. Fees are $30 per vehicle/vessel or $25 per motorcycle. If you are entering on foot or bike the fee is $15 per person. You can also purchase a park specific annual pass for $55.
Don't attempt this hike in July/August-- it's way too hot/exposed. Bring at least 4L of water. The trail was very muddy and overgrown. I also couldn't find a safe way to finish the last couple hundred feet to the arch (to stand underneath it), but maybe I didn't look hard enough. Towards the end, when the gulch gets really narrow and overgrown, you can climb on the surrounding rock to avoid needing to step thru the gulch/swamp. Ultimately, while the view of the arch was nice, I didn't think this hike was worth the long drive from Escalante.
Lovely views throughout. Would not recommend this hike if it’s very hot, it was 65 degrees and windy when we went which was quite comfortable but rock would be very hot if any warmer or without a breeze. Actually only 4 miles If you start at the parking area, this map starts a mile from the end of the road. We did not see anyone else on a weekday starting around 11 am. Somewhat difficult to keep track of the trail at some points as there are forks with alternate routes but all the ones we tried ultimately led us to the arch. The last half is along a little creek that you cross a bit.
From trailhead to the arch is only about 2 miles ish. We were hoping for a bit more of a challenge. we certainly could have by taking the loop. The arch is fantastic, as it’s one you can literally sleep under. We feel like you have front row seats. We took 3 girls 10 - 13 years old who have done 21 miles over 3 days on another hike. This one was super easy for great reward. And we saw no one over spring break. I’d like to come back and do the loop.
One of my favorite Grand Staircase hikes. I recommend making it an overnight and sleeping in the massive alcove across the creek from the arch. There are some great slots to explore as you continue upstream. It is a great water hike in the spring, full of toads and wildflowers.