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Devil's Garden

A classic Moab trail run to several massive arches within Arches National Park.

Trail Running Difficult

Distance
11 km
Ascent
309 m
Descent
309 m
Duration
1-2 hrs
Low Point
1.5 km
High Point
1.7 km
Gradient
Devil's Garden Map

For hikers and trail runners alike, Devils Garden offers an premier trail running experience tucked deep in Arches National Park. This classic loop visits massive arches and exposed sandstone formations and offers endless views along the way.

Description

The loop begins at the end of a park road, nearly 18 miles north of the primary visitor center. The Devils Garden Campground is also located nearby and a great opportunity to spend the night within the park. For the most up to date parking information, visit https://www.nps.gov/arch/planyourvisit/parking.htm. Arches recommends leaving larger vehicles and trailers in town and commuting to the park in passenger vehicles since space is limited.

Including all side trails, this ~8-mile loop includes 6 arches, plus a large sandstone pillar known as Dark Angel. Landscape Arch, one of the most renowned landmarks in the park, is one of the easiest to access and just 1 mile from the trailhead. According to the NPS, "Landscape Arch is the longest arch in North America with a light opening of 306 feet", and astonishingly just 6' at its narrowest point.

Like many trail runs in the region, the elevation often comes in steep ascents up slickrock faces that must be negotiated cautiously. The path passes over narrow ledges and iconic sandstone 'fins', one of the most recognizable features in the desert landscape. Compared to the other side trails, the trek to Double O Arch is considered the most strenuous by the National Park. Bring plenty of water, and expect your overall pace to be slower than expected.

Sources: https://www.nps.gov/arch/planyourvisit/devils-garden.htm

Difficulty

Difficult

High Exposure

3 out of 4

Some trail sections have exposed ledges or steep ascents/descents where falling could cause serious injury.

Remoteness

3 out of 4

Little chance of being seen or helped in case of an accident.

Best time to visit

between February and November

Guidebooks in this area