Do you know where Indiana Jones stole the Cross of Coronado? Believe it or not, it was filmed right here among the stunning red rock formations of Arches National Park

Growing up one of my favorite movie heroes was Indiana Jones—a man who made history feel alive and danger feel necessary. Archaeology, adventure, the thrill of discovery—it was everything a young boy needed to imagine a larger world.

What I didn’t realize then was that part of that world exists just six hours west of Denver, hidden among the red rock towers of Arches National Park. So I packed the officially licensed Indiana Jones hat my father once gave me—and embarked on my own Indiana Jones Adventure in Utah.

Planning the Trip: How to Find the Filming Locations

Filming Locations in Arches National Park (Scene-by-Scene)

Park Avenue Viewpoint (Opening Scene)

The film begins with the Paramount Pictures logo dissolving into a desert tower—a masterful visual transition introducing us to the beautiful Arches scenery.

That real-world location for this opening shot? Park Avenue Viewpoint. Getting the exact shot isn’t easy. The original angle appears slightly off-trail, but the desert ecosystem here is fragile—and not worth damaging for a photo. I stayed on the path and captured the closest honest frame I could.

Park Avenue Viewpoint

The Organ (Riders Cresting the Hill)

Shortly after, the Boy Scout riders appear on horseback, cresting a hill with towering rock formations behind them.

This is The Organ—massive, imposing, and unmistakably cinematic.

The Organ

Balanced Rock

One of the most recognizable formations in the park, Balanced Rock appears as the horse riders pass directly in front of it. It’s an easy stop, a short fun hike—and a must-capture shot. Again, staying on the mostly paved trail is recommended.

Balanced Rock

Three Gossips + Sean Connery Title Scene

As the riders move through the desert, the Three Gossips formation rises behind them while Sean Connery’s title fades in. The name comes from the shape—three figures appearing to stand together in conversation. Once you see it, you can’t unsee it. As a side note, Alan Steck and Steve Roper were the first to rock climb the 350ft tower in 1970.

Three Gossips

Double Arch (Final Shot)

The sequence ends as the camera glides past a tree, revealing Double Arch in full scale. The Double Arch is 112 feet high and spans 144 feet. This is where the young Indiana Jones steals the fictitious Cross of Coronado and the adventure begins.  Seeing it in person feels surreal—like stepping directly into the film. This was the final piece of the puzzle.

Double Arch

Tips for Visiting These Filming Locations

Stay on Designated Trails

The desert environment is incredibly fragile. Cryptobiotic soil can take decades to recover from a single footprint.

Go Early or Late

• Best light for photography
• Fewer crowds
• Cooler temperatures
• The National Park can get very hot in the summer months. Please bring a lot of hydration and the Park Safety Page.

Bring a Reference Shot

Having a screenshot from the movie helps dramatically with framing.

Combine with Hiking or Climbing

There are plenty of nearby opportunities for hiking and rock climbing. Read about the Rock Climbing Regulations. 

My Experience: More Than Just a Photo Hunt

Retracing the steps of a childhood hero turned out to be more than a photography trip. It was a reminder that adventure doesn’t disappear with age—it just waits for you to recognize it.

And as Indiana Jones always said—"it belongs in a museum."

If you enjoy tracking down real-world places that inspired iconic film and television, you might also like my exploration of locations connected to The Twilight Zone—another journey where landscape and storytelling collide.

FAQ: Indiana Jones Filming Locations in Arches

Was Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade filmed in Arches National Park?

Yes—several opening scenes featuring the young Indiana Jones, played by the late River Phoenix were filmed here.

Where is the Paramount mountain transition filmed?

At Park Avenue Viewpoint inside the park. The large rock on the far left is the transition rock.

Can you visit all filming locations easily?

Most filming locations are easy to reach via short walks or established viewpoints. However, matching the exact camera angles from Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade can require careful positioning—and in some cases, may not be possible without leaving designated trails.

To protect the fragile desert environment, it’s best to stay on marked paths and accept the closest possible shot.

Also note that Arches National Park operates a timed entry system during peak months. Be sure to check the official park website for current reservation requirements before your visit.