Devils Garden sits at the end of the Arches scenic road, about eighteen miles from the entrance, and it holds more arches within walking distance than anywhere else in the park. The main trail is graded gravel and easy to follow, leading in about a mile to Landscape Arch, a slender ribbon of sandstone stretching over three hundred feet, among the longest natural spans on earth. Spur trails branch to Pine Tree Arch and Tunnel Arch, and beyond Landscape Arch the path becomes rougher and more adventurous, passing Navajo Arch and Partition Arch and continuing to Double O Arch on a primitive loop. Because the first section is simple and flat, Devils Garden suits almost every visitor, while the extended loop offers a half-day challenge for fit hikers who do not mind scrambling on slickrock and narrow fins.
Landscape Arch is delicate, and rock has fallen from it in the past, so the trail stops at a distance and you may not walk beneath it. That makes the viewing platform at the end of the gravel path the main goal for most visitors, and it takes about an hour round trip from the trailhead at a relaxed pace.
Beyond it the character changes
The trail climbs steeply, crosses sandstone fins with open drop-offs and is not recommended in wet or icy conditions. Hikers who attempt Double O Arch should carry plenty of water, wear shoes with grip and allow several hours.
In recent years Arches has used a timed-entry reservation system for daytime arrivals during the peak season, roughly spring through autumn, and has not required it outside those months or in every year, so check the park's site for the current rule before you travel. Devils Garden campground, at the trailhead, requires its own reservation, and the parking lot fills early on busy days, so arrive at sunrise or later in the afternoon if you can. The road from the entrance is the longest drive in the park, so allow time to reach the end.
A guided hike is a useful option if you would like local knowledge, a ride in a comfortable vehicle and company on the longer loop. The private guided hike linked here covers Arches trails with a guide, and guides can adapt the route to your fitness and the weather. Pack water, snacks, sun protection and layers, stay on the marked trail to protect the fragile soil crust, and never climb on arches. In winter, ice can make the fins and slickrock treacherous, so check conditions at the visitor center.
What to expect
The experience
A gravel trail to Landscape Arch, with optional primitive-trail loops to Double O Arch and other arches.
Best time
Early morning or late afternoon, when the lot is quieter and light is softer.
How long
About an hour for Landscape Arch; three to four hours for the longer loop.
Tips
Carry plenty of water, wear grippy shoes, stay off the fins in wet or icy weather and check the park's current entry rule.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Visitors who want to see many arches on foot in one place.
- Families
- The path to Landscape Arch is easy and good for children; the longer loop is for older hikers.
- Couples
- An early start with the sun on the fins is a lovely shared walk.
- Pair with
- The Windows Section, Delicate Arch and Park Avenue on the same scenic drive.
- Time needed
- One to four hours.
Good questions
How long is the walk to Landscape Arch?+
It is about a mile each way on an easy, graded path, usually around an hour round trip at a relaxed pace.
Do I need a timed-entry reservation?+
In recent years Arches has used a timed-entry reservation system for daytime arrivals during the peak season, roughly spring through autumn, and has not required it outside those months or in every year, so check the park's site for the current rule before you travel.
Can I walk under Landscape Arch?+
No. Rockfalls have occurred, and the trail stops at a safe distance.
Is the Double O Arch loop hard?+
It is a primitive trail with steep sections, slickrock and exposed fins. It suits fit hikers, in dry conditions, with plenty of water.
Where do I park?+
There is a large lot at the trailhead at the end of the scenic road, but it fills early on busy days. Arrive early or late.
