Mobius Arch Trail - Alabama Hills’ Iconic Rock Formation

Mobius Arch Trail is a short, easy 0.5-mile loop trail in the Alabama Hills Recreation Area near Lone Pine, California. This trail is well-known for its stunning views of the Mobius Arch, a natural rock formation that perfectly frames the towering peaks of Mount Whitney in the distance. The trail’s gentle terrain and spectacular photo opportunities make it a popular choice for all skill levels.

Located just off Whitney Portal Road, the Mobius Arch Trail is ideal for hikers looking for a quick yet memorable outdoor experience. The path winds through a rocky desert landscape, showcasing unique geological features and offering a picturesque setting perfect for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Trail Details

Trail type	Loop
Difficulty	Easy
Length	0.5 miles
Elevation gain/loss	Minimal (approx. 50 ft)
Trailhead Coordinates	36.6113035, -118.124882
Location	Alabama Hills Recreation Area
Season	Year-round
Information Number	760-872-5000

Getting to Mobius Arch Trailhead

To reach the Mobius Arch Trailhead, head to Lone Pine, California, on Highway 395. From the center of town, turn west at the stoplight onto Whitney Portal Road and drive approximately 2.5 miles.

Turn right onto Movie Road and continue for about 1.5 miles until you reach a fork in the road. Take the right-hand path and immediately pull into the dirt parking area on the left. Markers on both sides of this parking area indicate the start of the Mobius Arch Trail.

Trail Overview

Starting from the dirt parking area, the Mobius Arch Trail gently meanders through an open desert landscape adorned with weathered granite boulders. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, with minimal elevation change, making it accessible for hikers of all ages and skill levels. The sandy path weaves through clusters of uniquely shaped rock formations, leading visitors toward the highlight of the hike—the Mobius Arch.

Approximately halfway along the loop, hikers will come upon the iconic arch. This natural wonder is renowned for its graceful curve and the breathtaking view it offers of Mount Whitney framed within the arch’s opening. The area around the arch is spacious, allowing ample room for taking photos and admiring the panoramic scenery of the Eastern Sierra Nevada range.

Beyond the arch, the trail continues to loop back through a landscape rich in desert flora such as creosote bushes and Joshua trees. The trail features two other arches: Lathe Arch, which you’ll pass just before Mobius Arch, and Heart Arch, which is about 2/3rds of the way through the hike.

Wildlife sightings may include lizards and birds adapted to the arid environment. The trail’s return section features more opportunities to appreciate the stark beauty of the Alabama Hills, with its labyrinth of rounded rocks and distant mountain vistas.

Nearby Camping

For those looking to extend their stay in the Alabama Hills area, dispersed camping is available throughout the region. This type of camping allows visitors to set up camp at various sites without the amenities of designated campgrounds. Be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment.

Additional camping options can be found at Tuttle Creek Campground, which is managed by the Bureau of Land Management and located about 5 miles south of Lone Pine. This developed campground offers basic amenities, including picnic tables, fire rings, and restrooms, making it a convenient option for campers seeking a more structured stay.