If you’re looking for a hike that is dense with arches for every mile, you are going to love Devil’s Garden. This section of the park, located as deep as the Arches Scenic Drive will take you, was the first piece of land to be protected before Arches’ boundary expanded to its current size. It is home to the gravity-defying Landscape Arch, a structure recognized to be the largest arch on the planet, as well as other gems such as Double O Arch, and Partition Arch.
Although there are a few ways you can hike Devil’s Garden, I recommend you complete the entire 7.8-mile primitive loop which will lead you past 8 arches and was the trail that ended up being my favorite in all of Arches National park. While this trail only has an elevation gain of about 1,300 feet, it’s rated difficult because of some technical sections which require bouldering and light rock climbing to make it through. As someone who has never rocked climbed a day in her life, I can confidently say that if you go in with confidence, and a taste for adventure, this aspect of the hike will only add to your enjoyment. Just be sure to download the Alltrails map before you hit the trail because it is easy to lose your way at a few junctions. If you do feel up for the challenge, you can plan on the full experience taking anywhere from three to four hours.
If you’re only here to see the famed Landscape Arch, you have the option to forego the primitive trail and follow a paved path to this crown jewel. It’s an easy trek that is just over 1.6 miles, round trip. Even further still, you can complete the rest of the main trail, passing Navajo Arch, Partition Arch, Black Arch, and Double O Arch for an out-and-back experience of 4.2 miles.
This is a hike that encourages you to choose your own adventure while knowing that every choice will lead you to amazing sights and experiences. Since this little section of the park is so magical, it gets very crowded throughout the day. We suggest going in the early morning to beat the crowds and avoid the high heat of the desert.
