Devils Garden

Overview

Devils Garden is the park’s fin-and-arch playground at the far north end of the road. It packs a greatest-hits lineup—arches, sandstone spires, and narrow rock fins—into a choose-your-distance hike that can be mellow or full-on adventurous.

What You’ll See

• Landscape Arch, the longest natural arch in North America, on an easy, well-maintained segment.
• Double O Arch and the Dark Angel spire on the tougher upper reaches.
• Side spurs to Tunnel Arch, Pine Tree Arch, Navajo Arch, Private Arch, and the Black Arch viewpoint. You’ll also pass the site of Wall Arch, which collapsed in 2008—proof that these formations are still changing.

Routes & Difficulty

You can keep it simple to Landscape Arch or commit to the full loop (roughly 7–8 miles depending on spurs). Beyond Landscape Arch, expect slickrock, short scrambles, narrow fins with drop-offs, and sparse signage—especially on the Primitive Loop. It’s exciting and immersive, but not ideal for brand-new hikers or anyone uncomfortable with exposure.

Why It’s Special

Compared to other park stops, Devils Garden feels wilder and more varied. Do the full circuit and the crowds thin dramatically—your reward is a maze of fins and viewpoints that feel worlds away from the parking lot.

Wildlife & Night Sky

Desert wildlife is elusive in daylight. You’re most likely to spot crows and lizards; mammals like mule deer or foxes tend to lay low. After dark, the stargazing can be superb.

Geology Snapshot

Everything here is Entrada Sandstone sculpted by water, wind, and freeze–thaw cycles into long fins that arches eventually cut through. Wall Arch’s 2008 collapse is a recent reminder that gravity always wins.

Logistics & Amenities

There’s a major trailhead at the end of the park road with parking, restrooms, and potable water. Devils Garden Campground sits nearby (reservations recommended and it fills fast). There are no restaurants, stores, gas, or WiFi here, and cell service is unreliable.

Best Time to Visit

Aim for early morning to beat heat and crowds; late afternoon brings softer light and cooler temps. Weekdays are gentler than weekends. If you’re timing sunset or stargazing, start early enough for the return and bring lights.

Essential Prep

Bring 2–3 liters of water per person, sun protection, and sturdy shoes with good grip. Download an offline map—the Primitive Loop is lightly marked and it’s easy to wander off-route.