Guide to Devils Garden in Arches National Park
Step into the wonders of Devils Garden, where dramatic rock formations and breathtaking arches shape the landscape. Known for having some of the best hiking in Arches National Park, this area promises awe-inspiring views and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re here to hike, sightsee, or stargaze, Devils Garden is a must-visit destination. At its heart lies Landscape Arch, one of the park’s most iconic sights and the longest natural arch in North America, captivating visitors with its grandeur. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make the most of your visit to Devils Garden. Embark on the Devils Garden adventure during your ULUM getaway. Discover our guided experiences and plan your visit.
Planning Your Visit to Devils Garden in Arches
Where is Devils Garden?
Located at the end of Arches Scenic Drive, Devils Garden is about 18 miles north of the Visitor Center. The drive itself is part of the adventure, offering a 45-minute journey through otherworldly landscapes dotted with iconic rock formations. Take your time and savor the views, as the scenery is just as stunning as the destination. You might start your day at Devils Garden and take your time exploring the viewpoints and watching the sunset from Delicate Arch on your return.
Facilities at Devils Garden
There’s a parking lot at the end of Devils Garden Road, conveniently located near the trailhead. The area has restrooms, picnic tables, grills, and potable water. It’s an ideal spot to take a break before or after your hike.
Visiting Arches National Park
Before your visit, check the National Park Service website for the latest entry requirements and updates. Also, don’t forget to bring your America the Beautiful Annual Pass or pay the entrance fee at the park.
Best Things to Do at Devil’s Garden
Hike the Devils Garden Trail
The best way to experience Devils Garden is by hiking the Devils Garden Trail. Whether taking the easy, family-friendly walk to Landscape Arch or venturing out on the 7.9-mile loop, the trail offers something for everyone. Along the way, you’ll encounter eight unique arches, scramble over rocks, and traverse narrow sandstone fins with breathtaking views. You can customize your hike based on your activity level and how much time you want to spend.
Arches and Formations You’ll See on the Devils Garden Trail:
- Landscape Arch
- Tunnel Arch
- Pine Tree Arch
- Partition Arch
- Navajo Arch
- Double O Arch
- Private Arch
- Dark Angel Rock Spire and Petroglyphs
Hiking the Devils Garden Trail Segments
Round Trip to Landscape Arch: 1.6 miles, 1 hour
The Landscape Arch hike is a family-friendly, easy trail with minimal elevation gain. It takes about an hour to complete the round trip and is a great option if you’re looking for a relatively short hike with incredible views. Along the way, you’ll pass between towering fins of rock before arriving at the crown jewel of Devils Garden Arches—Landscape Arch. Its stunning span of 306 feet makes it the longest natural arch in North America.
Round Trip to Double O Arch: 4.2 miles, 2 – 2.5 hours
For more adventure, continue beyond Landscape Arch to Double O Arch, the second largest arch within Devils Garden. This challenging trail segment requires climbing steep sandstone fins and scrambling over rocks. The hike is moderate to strenuous, but the reward is worth it—Double O Arch is a unique double arch formation, where one arch is on top of another.
Round Trip to Dark Angel: 5 miles, 2 – 3 hours
If you want to take your hike even further, continue from Double O Arch to Dark Angel, a towering 150-foot rock spire visible from a distance. This five-mile round-trip offers a spectacular out-and-back journey, surrounded by stunning fins, arches, and canyons. Keep an eye out for hidden rock art—hundreds of ancient petroglyphs and pictographs are etched into the landscape. Look for the wooden sign that reads, “You’ve found something unique. Please preserve it,” and remember to admire these historic treasures without touching them.
For more petroglyphs in Moab, explore our guide on their history and where to find them.
Spur Trails to Additional Arches
If you’re looking for shorter hikes or want to see additional arches, take the spur trails off the main trail:
- Pine Tree Arch and Tunnel Arch: 0.5 miles round trip (20 minutes)
- Navajo Arch and Partition Arch: 0.8 miles round trip (30 minutes)
Primitive Trail: 7.2 miles, 3 – 4 hours
For experienced hikers, the Primitive Trail offers the most rugged and demanding route in the Devils Garden trail system. With steep slopes, narrow ledges, and rock scrambles, this section requires strong route-finding skills and is not recommended for those uncomfortable with heights or when the rock is wet or icy. However, if you’re looking for solitude and a more adventurous experience, the Primitive Trail provides a rewarding journey through the desert landscape.
Full Loop Hike: 7.9 miles, 3 – 5 hours
The full Devils Garden Trail includes Landscape Arch, Double O Arch, Dark Angel, and the Primitive Trail. It’s a strenuous hike, but the experience of seeing all eight arches and the stunning scenery along the way makes it a rewarding journey.
Stargazing
Due to its remote location, Devils Garden is a prime spot for stargazing. As part of a designated Dark Sky Park, the area offers some of the clearest night skies in the country. On a clear night, you can see the Milky Way in all its glory, making this a perfect way to wind down after a day of exploring Arches.
Photography
With its collection of arches, Devils Garden provides countless photo opportunities for photographers. The early morning and late afternoon provide the best light for capturing the vibrant red and orange hues of the sandstone formations.
Birdwatching and Wildlife Viewing
The desert ecosystem around Devils Garden is home to wildlife, including lizards, desert cottontails, and birds such as ravens and red-tailed hawks. Early mornings and evenings are the best times to spot wildlife along the trail.
Picnicking
Enjoy a relaxing meal at the Devils Garden picnic area. Surrounded by stunning desert landscapes, this area is a peaceful spot to rest and refuel before or after your hike. Pack plenty of water and snacks to stay hydrated in the desert environment.
Wildflower Viewing
Spring is an excellent time for wildflower viewing in Devils Garden, particularly in April and May, and again in early fall. You might spot vibrant blooms such as the desert marigold and the sego lily, adding color to the already beautiful landscape.
Where to Stay Near Arches National Park
For a truly unforgettable experience, stay at ULUM Moab, a luxury outdoor resort just a short drive from Arches National Park, where more than 2,000 natural arches await exploration. Set in a picturesque desert landscape, ULUM Moab offers an exceptional blend of upscale amenities and nature. After a day of adventure, unwind in style with luxurious accommodations, fine dining, and premium comforts that provide a restorative retreat in the heart of the desert. Here, you can embrace the beauty of the outdoors without sacrificing comfort.
