Arches National Park houses over 2,000 sandstone arches, far and away the largest collection of these rock wonders in the world. Visitors from across the globe flock to the park and viewpoints are always jam-packed during tourist season. Despite its popularity it is possible to beat the crowds in Arches and see some amazing sights. Devil’s Garden Primitive Loop trail will allow hikers to leave the hordes behind and take in views of open desert, fins and eight outstanding arches.
From the Visitor Center near Moab simply follow the signs to Devil’s Garden. The trailhead is in the northern section of Arches NP and is often quite crowded. Fear not, most folks won’t be going further than a couple miles from the parking lot. Lather up the sunblock and stretch those legs- this trail will work you! For the first 1/3 of the hike the path is wide, smooth and easy to follow. Just a mile from the start you will be treated to two cool formations: Tunnel and Pine Tree Arches are just short walks off the main trail. Return to the main fairway and continue on to see Landscape Arch; the story behind this formation is great and adds a lot of character to an already intriguing sight. After Landscape the trail gets tough- ascend the first of many sandstone fins and soon you will see the branch trail leading to Navajo and Partition Arches. These two gems are among the most interesting in the park and shouldn’t be missed.
Double O is the next arch on the path, but it will take some time to arrive there. Luckily this portion of the trail is huge on scenery. Follow the cairns right along the fins and wind your way through the maze of rock and sand. There is some much needed shade to be found near Double O, and this is a great spot for a break before tackling the rest of the trail. If your legs are feeling good then add the one mile out and back trip to the seldom viewed – Dark Angel: a free standing, 150′ tall sandstone pillar.
There is just one more arch left on the Primitive Loop Trail. Private Arch is hidden deep within Fin Canyon, and you won’t see it until you are just feet away. The rest of the loop courses through more fins, in and out of washes, over slickrock and up sandy inclines. The diversity of the trail makes it especially worthwhile; hikers will encounter just about every type of desert topography imaginable during the journey. From the Devil’s Garden trailhead the hike is 7.5 miles including all points of interest. It is quite a haul but well worth every step.
Remember that during summer months temperatures can reach 100 degrees or more; plan accordingly. Weather forecasts are available and updated daily at the Visitor Center. Novice hikers and groups with children should take the warning signs seriously- this is definitely a difficult hike and every person needs to have a water supply with them.
Essential Gear: hiking shoes/boots, hat, sunscreen and plenty of water
Maps: USGS Mollie Hogans and Klondike Bluffs 7.5 topos or Trails Illustrated Map #211 (Arches)