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Unique rock formations and natural arch at Stud Horse Point overlooking the Lake Powell area

Stud Horse Point and Skylight Arch

Stud Horse Point is one of the most expansive and photogenic viewpoints just outside of Page. From the rim, you get sweeping views across the desert toward Lake Powell, with sandstone cliffs that glow deep shades of orange and red—especially around sunset.

While it’s possible to reach the viewpoint with only a short walk, access depends on driving sandy desert roads. Once you arrive, the landscape opens up immediately, and it’s easy to spend time wandering along the rim and exploring the surrounding slickrock at your own pace.


Beneath the cliffs, narrow slot canyons cut through the landscape and can be accessed from below if you have the time and interest to explore further. There’s no single defined route here—the experience is part viewpoint, part freeform exploration.


Optional Hike: Skylight Arch

A short distance away, the hike to Skylight Arch adds a more adventurous layer to a visit here. The arch itself sits high in the sandstone, allowing sunlight to pass through and creating a striking focal point.


The hike is not difficult, but the open terrain invites some off-trail navigation and exploration. You’ll get wide, uninterrupted views throughout, and the freedom to wander makes the experience feel more connected to the landscape than a traditional trail.


My AllTrails route reflects how I explored the area that day. It’s not the most direct route to Skylight Arch—I wandered quite a bit—but it provides a helpful sense of how the viewpoint, arch, and surrounding terrain connect.


Access & Driving Conditions

Reaching Stud Horse Point requires driving sandy desert roads. Conditions vary, but sections can be soft, uneven, or slightly steep. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended, and drivers should feel comfortable navigating unpaved terrain.


I parked my AWD Subaru a short distance before the main viewpoint due to a small sandy hill, and walked the rest of the way. It’s not far, but standard passenger cars may have difficulty depending on conditions.


Avoid driving these roads when wet, as they can quickly become difficult.


Canyon Laurel Route

Skylight Arch AllTrails Route

A scenic desert adventure combining the dramatic rim views of Stud Horse Point with a short hike to Skylight Arch. This outing mixes easy hiking with a bit of exploration and navigation.
Awe Rating (1-5):
3.5
Length:
< 5 miles, 5-8 miles
Difficulty:
Easy
Trail Type:
Out & Back
Time Needed:
Half Day
Highlights:
Big Views, Adventure
Landscape:
Slickrock, Hoodoos
Solitude Potential: 
High
Trailhead Access:
Dirt Road
Special Considerations, Best Season to Hike:
Reaching Stud Horse Point and the Skylight Arch trailhead requires driving sandy desert roads. A high-clearance vehicle is strongly recommended, and drivers should feel comfortable navigating unpaved desert terrain.
Things to Know
  • Navigation is confusing due to multiple sandy tracks—bring a map or GPS track

  • Steep cliffs line the rim—use caution near the edge

  • There is very little shade—bring water even for short outings

  • Avoid driving sandy roads when wet—they become difficult quickly

More to Explore

There are lots of great areas to explore nearby.  For fantastic hoodoo landscapes be sure to visit the easily accessed  Toadstool Hoodoos or the more remote and playful  White Rocks Hoodoos.


The adjacent Vermillion Cliffs also boast several world-class destinations including The Wave, Buckskin Gulch, Wire Pass to Buckskin Gulch, Edmaier's Secret and White Pocket.

Photo Inspiration

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© 2026 Canyon Laurel

Photography by Laurel Abdelnour

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