Tackle the Devils Garden 7-Mile Loop: A Guided Hike Through Arches National Park’s Rugged Frontier
Explore the Devils Garden 7-mile Primitive Loop in Arches National Park, a rugged trail that tests endurance and rewards with sweeping sandstone arches. This guided hike offers an immersive desert adventure paired with insights into the park’s geology and ecology.
The Experience
Before You Go
Start Early to Beat the Heat
Temperatures can soar quickly so begin your hike early morning to avoid the harshest sun and conserve energy.
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Rock slabs and uneven surfaces demand durable hiking boots with good grip to maintain stability throughout the loop.
Carry Adequate Water
Bring at least 2 liters of water per person; hydration is crucial given the desert environment and physical exertion.
Use Trekking Poles for Balance
Poles can help navigate tricky rock sections and reduce strain on knees during elevation changes.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Remote arches along the Primitive Loop less frequented by casual visitors
- •Quiet slickrock fins ideal for photography away from the crowds
Wildlife
- •Desert bighorn sheep
- •Collared lizard
Conservation Note
Arches National Park enforces strict Leave No Trace policies to protect fragile desert ecosystems and ensure minimal visitor impact on delicate sandstone formations.
The area was historically inhabited and revered by Ute and Paiute tribes, whose cultural ties to the land persist in storytelling traditions.
Photographer's Notes
- • Landscape views from the top of Landscape Arch
- • Near Partition Arch along the loop
- • Slickrock fins within the Primitive Loop
What to Bring
Sturdy Hiking BootsEssential
Provide traction and ankle support on uneven desert terrain.
Hydration Pack or Water BottlesEssential
Ensures sufficient water supply during the 7-mile desert hike.
Sun Protection (Hat and Sunscreen)Essential
Protects against intense UV rays under limited shade.
Lightweight Layered ClothingEssential
Allows adjustment for cool mornings and warmer afternoons.
Common Questions
Do I need a permit to hike Devils Garden Primitive Loop?
A timed-entry reservation or park pass is required to enter Arches National Park. No additional permit is needed specifically for the hike.
Is this hike suitable for beginners?
This 7-mile loop is moderately strenuous with some rock scrambling and elevation gain; it’s best suited for those with some hiking experience and good fitness.
Are there restrooms or water stations along the trail?
There are no facilities within the Primitive Loop; restroom facilities are located at the main trailhead before the hike.
Can I do the hike without a guide?
The trail is accessible independently, but a guide enhances safety and offers valuable insights into geology and ecology.
What wildlife might I see on this hike?
Keep an eye out for desert bighorn sheep, lizards, and a variety of bird species adapted to the arid environment.
What’s the best time of year to hike Devils Garden?
Spring and fall offer milder temperatures and more comfortable hiking conditions compared to the hot summer and cold winter months.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5–6 hours
Location
Moab, Utah
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Hikers should have moderate fitness with endurance for long distances and some elevation gain.
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