Worst Mistakes Hikers Make In Devils Garden

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Welcome to Devils Garden: arguably the best hike in Arches National Park.

As an avid hiker on a mission to slay the best bucket list hikes around the world, I can assure you that Devils Garden is both breathtaking and challenging.

With its awe-inspiring rock formations, iconic arches, and challenging trails, it’s a must-visit for adventurers. 

However, it’s also a place where preparation is key. One wrong step can turn a dream hike into a nightmare. 

That’s why we’re flipping the script and giving you the ultimate guide to what not to do at Devil’s Garden in Arches National Park.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll ensure your hike is unforgettable for all the right reasons!

What is Devils Garden?

Devils Garden is a breathtaking and adventurous hiking area within Arches National Park, known for its stunning concentration of natural arches and dramatic desert landscapes.

As one of the park’s most iconic trails, it offers a mix of easier, family-friendly paths and more demanding sections for seasoned hikers.

Many visitors come to see the famous Landscape Arch, the longest arch in North America, before turning back, but the true essence of Devil’s Garden lies in its full loop trail.

This loop includes the challenging Primitive Trail, a rugged path that rewards those who take it with solitude, hidden arches like Private Arch, and a deeper connection to the wild beauty of the park.

Watch me Hike Devils Gargen 👇

As you can see, there are a lot of mistakes made throughout the entire Devils Garden Trail. Let’s talk about the most common ones and how you can fix them!

Mistake #1: Underestimating the Trail’s Difficulty

Devils Garden is not your average walk in the park. It’s a place that commands respect, with its intricate network of trails and challenging terrain.

Why Devil’s Garden is Challenging

It’s important to note what makes Devil’s Garden challenging. 

I’ve climbed everything from Half Dome in Yosemite to the Andes in Peru, and I must say that Devil’s Garden is challenging…but for different reasons.

Diverse Terrain

From the flat, sandy paths at the start to the rugged slickrock climbs and narrow ledges, the trail offers a mix of surfaces that require agility and stamina.

Scrambling over rocks and navigating steep drop-offs isn’t for the faint of heart.

Ironically, I rarely felt out of breath. However, the difficulty lies in the fact that the terrain is hard to navigate and hike.

Think of it more as an obstacle course versus cardio, especially on that Primative Trail.

Navigating these areas demands focus, balance, and proper footwear.

Exposure to Elements

The desert environment means minimal shade, leaving hikers exposed to intense sun and heat for long stretches.

I started early in the morning and it got hot around 10am. The intensity of heat here is no joke.

In colder months, icy patches can make the slickrock treacherous.

Navigation Challenges

While small arrows mark much of the trail, some sections can feel like a maze. Losing sight of the markers can lead to disorientation, especially in less-trafficked areas.

This was one of the hardest parts of the trail for me. I only had a map from the Visitor’s Center. Some folks had AllTrails, but even they were getting lost.

I ended up walking around aimlessly looking for a signal until I could see where I was on Apple Maps. If I hadn’t succeed in that, I’m not sure what would have happened. 

Mental Challenge

Beyond the physical demands, Devil’s Garden tests your mental resilience. Staying focused on the terrain, managing fatigue, and overcoming fears (like heights) are all part of the experience.

Personally, I didn’t feel too bad in regards to heights. Compared to other hikes in Utah, such as Angel’s Landing, it’s a breeze. 

Length and Elevation

The full loop is 7.9 miles (give or take), with numerous side trails leading to hidden gems like Partition Arch and Navajo Arch.

While the incline and elevation change isn’t bad, the distance can be made worse with the heat and trail conditions.

What I love about Devils Garden is that you don’t have to do the full loop! It is extremely versatile.

In fact, there are popular hikes within this trail system that don’t involve going all the way to the Primative Trail.

Note that the Landscape, Pine Tree, and Tunnel Arch trails were all relatively easy and well marked. Once you go beyond to Double O and beyond, that’s when it gets interesting.

Below are the different options and distances within Devil’s Garden:

Destination	Distance
Landscape Arch & Back	1.9 miles (3.1 km)
Spurs to Tunnel & Pine Tree Arch	adds 0.5 miles (0.8 km)
Double O Arch & Back	4.1 miles (6.6 km)
Spurs to Navajo & Partition	adds 0.8 miles (1.3 km)
Dark Angel & Back via the Main Trail	4.9 miles (7.9 km)
Dark Angel & Back via the Primitive Trail	6.6 miles (10.6 km)
Total Loop with all Spurs	7.9 miles (12.6 km)

*Note: A spur is a side trail that branches off of the main trail. These are optional out & back trails that normally lead to more arches.

My Experience with the Length, Crowds, and Doing the Full Loop

I started off hiking with several people, only to have them turn around one by one. By the time I reached Double O and the Primative Trail, I was completely alone. I ran into about 5 people total on the Primative Trail. 

For families or beginners, consider stopping at Landscape Arch and returning.

Mistake #2: Forgetting to Check the Weather

The weather in Devil’s Garden is as unpredictable as it is extreme. From blazing heat to sudden downpours, it’s vital to plan ahead.

Unpredictable Conditions

Devil’s Garden is in a desert environment where temperatures can swing dramatically.

Summer hikes often mean triple-digit heat, while winter can bring icy patches that make slickrock treacherous.

Rain can transform the sandstone into a slippery hazard, but is necessary for the park’s natural erosion.

What to Do Instead

Always check the weather forecast before setting out. Early mornings are the best time to start, especially during the summer, to avoid the peak heat.

Pay attention to wind advisories as well, as strong gusts can make exposed sections of the trail even riskier.

Pro Tip: Carry extra layers in colder months and always be prepared for sudden changes in weather.

Mistake #3: Skipping the Essentials

Hiking Devil’s Garden without the right gear is a rookie mistake that can have serious consequences.

Water and Snacks

Dehydration is a real risk in Devil’s Garden. The dry desert air and physical exertion can drain your energy quickly.

Bring more water than you think you’ll need, and pack high-energy snacks to keep you fueled.

Personally, I only went through about 1 liter of water, but the National Park Service recommends that you bring 3 liters.

Proper Gear

This isn’t the time to test out your new flip-flops.

Sturdy hiking boots with a good grip are essential due to all of the scrambling required.

I wore my Merrell hiking boots and had no issues with grip or pain.

A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen will protect you from the sun, while a lightweight backpack will keep your hands free.

If you feel comfortable, bring a camera to photograph some lesser-visited arches. I used my phone.

Mistake #4: Going Off-Trail

It might be tempting to forge your own path through the stunning landscape of Devil’s Garden, but it’s a big no-no.

Again, sometimes you don’t have a choice because you are lost, but try to avoid it…for your sake and for the sake of the park. 

Impact on Nature

The ecosystem in Devil’s Garden is incredibly fragile. Straying off the trail damages the soil and vegetation, which can take decades to recover.

Cryptobiotic soil, for example, is vital for the desert’s health but is easily destroyed by careless footsteps.

Safety Risks

It’s surprisingly easy to get lost in the maze-like terrain of Devil’s Garden. Stick to the marked trails to avoid disorientation.

Pro Tip: Follow the cairns (rock piles) and small square arrows that mark the trail and stay on the designated paths to protect the environment and yourself.

Again, be prepared with a downloaded map and a physical map to reduce your risk of getting lost. 

Which Way Around the Loop?

Devils Garden is a loop! So which way should you go?

Head to Landscape Arch First

If you head to Landscape first, you will hit the Primitive Trail after Double O.

I chose to go this way out of pure luck and decided I liked it better.

I would recommend this route if you prefer to go downhill on rocks or do some “booty scooting” as I like to call it.

I also liked this way because I could gracefully (or not so gracefully) fall into the water section. I think climbing that with high water would be a bloody nightmare.

Hitting the Primitive Trail First

You will see a sign for the Primitive Trail on the right before you hit Landscape Arch.

Being totally honest, I completely missed it so I was forced to go the other way.

However, I did meet more hikers going this way around the loop.

If you decide to go this way, expect some steep uphill scrambles. This route might be slightly easier on the knees.

Mistake #5: Ignoring the Signs

The signs in Devil’s Garden aren’t just suggestions; they’re there to keep you safe and preserve the park.

There aren’t many signs in Devils Garden, so pay attention to the ones that you do come across!

Warnings

If a trail section is marked as closed, it’s for a good reason. These areas may be unstable or undergoing restoration.

Risky Behavior

Ignoring signs can lead to fines, injuries, or worse. Don’t let a bad decision ruin your trip.

I know this seems intuitive, but Devils Garden is an adventurer’s playground. It might be tempting for some to push some boundaries.

Mistake #6: Overpacking or Underpacking

Packing for a hike in Devil’s Garden requires balance. Bring too much, and you’ll struggle under the weight. Bring too little, and you’ll find yourself unprepared.

Overpacking

Carrying unnecessary items can weigh you down and make the hike more difficult.

Skip the “just in case” items unless they’re critical. I would be careful with excessive camera gear.

If you are looking to photograph Arches National Park, don’t miss my Complete Photography Guide!

Underpacking

On the flip side, not bringing essentials like water, snacks, or a first aid kit is a recipe for disaster.

Pro Tip: Aim for a lightweight pack with all the essentials: water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, a map, small camera/phone, and a small first aid kit.

If you are interested in getting the right gear gear, I have listed my hiking gear and adventure photography gear on my Amazon Storefront.

Mistake #7: Rushing the Experience

Devil’s Garden is a place to savor, not sprint through. Take your time to fully appreciate its beauty.

Rushing through Devil’s Garden means you’ll miss smaller arches, unique rock formations, and the chance to truly soak in the scenery.

Don’t forget to pause and look back; sometimes the best views are behind you.

Arches To See on The Devils Garden Trial

Devils Garden offers access to 7 unique arches! Grab a map and make sure you don’t miss any 👇

• Landscape Arch: The longest arch in North America and an iconic landmark.
• Double O Arch: A unique formation featuring two arches stacked atop one another.
• Partition Arch: Offers stunning framed views of the landscape beyond.
• Navajo Arch: A quieter spot perfect for photography and reflection.
• Private Arch: A hidden gem with fewer crowds, offering a peaceful retreat.
• Pine Tree Arch: An easily accessible gem near the trailhead.
• Tunnel Arch: An easy trail near the Pine Tree Arch at the beginning of the trail system.

Landscape Arch and Double Arch are on the natural path. The others require you to take side trails (spurs) to.

The easiest one to miss is the Private Arch since it’s poorly marked on the Primitive Trail. Fortunately, it was amazing to see and there were no crowds.

Fatigue and Injury

Moving too quickly increases the risk of missteps, especially on slickrock and steep sections.

You have to be very intentional with your footing in many areas and have to scramble up rocks. Take your time!

Suggested Time

Allocate plenty of time for your hike. Devil’s Garden is best enjoyed at a steady pace that lets you take in every detail.

Plan for breaks to rest, hydrate, and snap photos.

The National Park Service estimates about 3 to 5 hours for the entire trail. I was at about 6 hours taking my time (and getting slightly lost…)

Mistake #8: Underestimating Navigation Challenges

Speaking of getting slightly lost, finding your way in Devil’s Garden can be tricky, especially in less-trafficked areas.

Trail Markers

While markers and cairns are usually reliable, they can be hard to spot in certain lighting or weather conditions.

Or, if you are directionally challenged like me, they are hard to spot at all.

What to Do Instead

As I mentioned before, make sure to have a map. Bring a GPS device or a trail app with offline maps.

These tools are invaluable when trail markers are sparse or confusing.

Always have a backup plan for navigation, such as a printed map, in case your technology fails.

My Experience with Navigating Devils Garden

This is where I failed miserably. I figured, “the path can’t be that hard to find”.

Granted, I did pretty well up until Landscape Arch. Then I lost the path. Once I started for Dark Angel, I got lost completely. When I hiked the Primative Trail? Lord help me.

Don’t be like me. Download a map before you reach the parking lot and carry a physical one as well.

My Recommendation

If I were going to do it again, I would download a section of a map app. I had pretty good luck with Apple Maps.

You can do AllTrails, but there is a section where it takes you off the path. I ran into a hiker that was using AllTrails and had been lost for 30 minutes because it was taking him in a weird direction.

Regarding a physical map, I was carrying the general map from the Visitors Center. Although it was helpful, they do have a specific map for Devil’s Garden. I was given one by a hiker that turned back and will be forever grateful. 

Here’s how I would break up the trail in Terms of Navigation

To Landscape Arch: A well marked and easy to spot flat trail. Easy peasy lemon squeezy. 

After Landscape Arch: It was difficult to know where to go and I ended up scrambling over a large rock. 

To Navajo, Partition, and Double O: The main trail as well as the spur trails were quite easy to follow. There was a section where you had to walk across a large rock and walk across with drop-offs. 

Past Double O into Dark Angel and the Primitive Trail: Good luck. Most of the time there was no distinct trail, only large rocks. I went the wrong way several times and almost slid down a rock going the wrong way.

And I wasn’t the only one. I ran into 2 ladies who had take the wrong turn, stoped another hiker from going the wrong way, and helped out that guy who was lost because of AllTrails. 

It’s an EPIC “trail”, but you need to be diligent. 

After The Pool: If you are going in the direction that I was, I fell into a pool of water and then continued on that trail.

From that point (once you are out of the fin section), the trail started to form again. Some of it was packed dirt, while other parts were sand.

From there, I had no trouble navigating back to the main trail. 

Mistake #9: Forgetting to Leave No Trace

Preserving the natural beauty of Devil’s Garden is everyone’s responsibility.

Pack It In, Pack It Out: Whatever you bring into Devil’s Garden, take it out with you. This includes trash, poo, leftover food, and biodegradable items like fruit peels.

Protect the Landscape: Climbing on or touching delicate arches may seem harmless, but it can cause irreversible damage.

Tip: Follow Leave No Trace principles to ensure Devil’s Garden remains pristine for future generations.

Mistake #10: Forgetting to Have a Backup Plan

Even the best plans can go awry in Devil’s Garden. Having a contingency plan can make all the difference.

Plan B for Emergencies: Let someone know your itinerary and have an exit strategy if conditions change suddenly.

Cell Service Limitations: Don’t rely on your phone for help; coverage is almost nonexistent in Devil’s Garden.

Know When to Turn Back: One of the greatest things about Devil’s Garden is it’s versatility. In fact, most people just go to Landscape Arch and then turn back.

If you are feeling queasy from the heights or worried about navigation, there is no shame in knowing your limits and turning back. 

Tip: Carry a whistle or a personal locator beacon (PLB) to call for help if needed. These tools can be lifesavers in an emergency.

More Info To Help You Tackle Devils Garden

How to Get to Arches National Park

For those staying in Moab, getting to Arches is a breeze. Simply follow the well-marked signs along U.S. 191, and you’ll find yourself at the park entrance in about 10 minutes.

Remember to factor in time for potential lines and reservations at the entrance, especially during peak season.

Once you are in, simply drive the 18 mile one-way road all the way to the end. Devils Garden is the last stop.

Where to Stay Near Arches National Park

Moab is the go-to basecamp for exploring Arches National Park, offering a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences.

Accommodation in Moab

There are countless places to stay in the Moab area, as seen by the map below👇

RV Parks

If you are looking for a budget option, you could stay at a campground or RV Park.

I travel full-time in an RV and stayed at Sun Outdoors North Moab. I did an entire review on my stay if this appeals to you.

Devils Garden Campground

For those seeking a more immersive experience, consider staying at Devils Garden Campground within the park itself.

Being the only campground at the park, this allows you to catch early sunrises or late sunsets without the need to drive far.

Just note that reservations fill up quickly, so plan ahead.

Parking at the Devil’s Garden Trailhead

Parking at the Devil’s Garden trailhead can be competitive, especially during peak hours.

The lot has a limited number of spaces, and with this being one of the most popular areas in the park, arriving early is key.

Aim to get there before 8 a.m. for the best chance at securing a spot. If this is in peak season or summer, aim to get there even earlier.

If the lot is full, you may need to wait for a space to open up or park further away and hike in.

I hiked Devils Garden in early fall. The parking lot was filled about half way around 7am. When I came back around 12pm, it was completely full.

More Hikes in Arches National Park

Although Devils Garden was my favorite, there are some amazing hikes to do in Arches National Park.

And most of them are quite easy and accessible.

Conclusion to This Devils Garden What-Not-To-Do

Devil’s Garden is a truly extraordinary hiking destination that offers adventure, beauty, and a sense of wonder.

But with its challenges come responsibilities. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your time in Devil’s Garden is safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable.

Have your own Devil’s Garden hiking tips or mishaps? Reach out! We’d love to hear your stories and insights.

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