Double O Arch Trail

Why hike it

If you want Arches’ drama without the shoulder‑to‑shoulder crowds of the most famous viewpoint, this is the play. The Double O Arch Trail strings together a greatest hits reel—Landscape Arch, narrow sandstone fins, and the namesake double-stacked span—while staying adventurous without being full-on technical. It’s one of the park’s most rewarding half-day efforts.

The experience

From Devils Garden Trailhead, the first mile is friendly and fast on packed sand to Landscape Arch. Beyond that, the vibe changes: you’ll climb slickrock, follow cairns, and walk narrow fins with drop-offs on both sides. It’s never a technical climb, but you’ll use hands for balance and need a head for heights. Expect minimal shade and constant eye candy—panoramic views over fins and canyons keep showing up.

At signed junctions, short spurs lead to Tunnel and Pine Tree early on, then Navajo and Partition after the first big fin (Partition has particularly impressive east-facing views). The main event is Double O Arch, two openings stacked in a sandstone fin; you can walk under and through for different perspectives. Got extra gas? Add Dark Angel (+1.0 mile round trip from the junction) or Private Arch (+0.5 mile round trip along the Primitive Trail). Confident navigators can incorporate part of the Primitive Trail for a quieter loop feel, but it’s rougher and less obvious.

Stats and options

• Standard out-and-back to Double O Arch: about 4.2 miles total, with roughly 360–670 feet of cumulative gain.
• With common side trips (Navajo + Partition): around 5–6 miles total.
• Primitive Trail extension: adds roughly 3 more miles and ups the commitment.

Plan on 3–4 hours if you like to explore and take photos.

Difficulty and who it’s for

Moderate to strenuous. Past Landscape Arch it’s primitive: slickrock scrambles, exposure, and route-finding by cairns. Not recommended for small children or anyone uncomfortable with heights. Sturdy shoes with good traction are mandatory.

Best time to hike

Spring and fall bring tolerable temps and better footing; summer is scorching with almost no shade, and winter can leave icy patches on the fins. Start early year-round to beat both heat and crowds; morning light is excellent, and sunrise from Partition Arch is a standout if you make the detour. Check for the park’s seasonal timed-entry system before you go.

Tips

• Carry plenty of water (at least 2 liters per person); there’s none on the route.
• Watch for cairns—easy to drift off course on slickrock.
• Storms make slickrock treacherous; if weather builds, turn around.
• Parking fills fast at Devils Garden; arrive early for a spot and a quieter trail.

If you’re after a shorter, lower-commitment outing, the walk to Landscape Arch alone delivers a world-class span with an easy grade. But for the full Devils Garden punch—views, variety, and that surreal double arch—go the extra miles.