Arches National Park Hike Challenge: Tackle Devils Garden 7m Loop

Exploring Arches National Park on Foot: The Devils Garden 7-Mile Loop Hike

If you’re eyeing a truly immersive adventure in Arches National Park, the Devils Garden 7-Mile Loop Hike Challenge might just be the experience you’re looking for. This isn’t your average stroll through scenic viewpoints—it’s a full-day, guided trek that takes you deep into one of Utah’s most iconic landscapes. Designed for those with moderate physical fitness, this tour promises a mix of awe-inspiring vistas, fascinating geology, and the thrill of navigating some of the park’s most remote and photogenic arches.

What sets this tour apart? First, the expert guides who are full of knowledge and eager to share stories about the park’s formation and ecology. Second, the focused photography and hiking experience means you won’t just see these landscapes—you’ll learn about their story and capture stunning images along the way. One potential caveat: at around 7 miles, this hike is mildly strenuous, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a good level of physical activity. It’s not ideal for travelers seeking a quick overview, but if you’re after an in-depth, adventurous day with expert guidance, this tour hits the mark.

In our opinion, this tour works best for travelers who love hiking and are eager to go beyond the typical viewpoints. If you’re interested in geologic history, enjoy taking photos, or simply want a day out in nature that feels like an adventure, you’ll find this experience worthwhile. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this tour special—and what you should consider before booking.

Key Points

• Expert-guided experience ensures you learn about the park’s geology, ecology, and history while enjoying the hike.
• A 7-mile moderately strenuous hike inside Arches, perfect for those with some hiking experience.
• Includes scenic stops at famous landmarks like Landscape Arch and Double O Arch, along with panoramic overlooks.
• All-inclusive pricing with a reservation system that respects park regulations and offers flexibility for park entry.
• Small group or private tour for a personalized, in-depth exploration.
• Highly rated with a perfect 5-star rating based on 12 reviews, indicating strong satisfaction among past participants.

An Inside Look at the Devils Garden 7-Mile Loop Hike

This tour offers a deep dive into Arches National Park’s incredible geology and landscape. Starting early at 7:00 am from Moab, the adventure begins with a pickup from a local, NPS-licensed outfitter. The day is spent exploring the park’s highlights, with plenty of opportunities for photos, learning, and just soaking in the scenery.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The day kicks off with a brief introduction to the park’s geology—our guides are praised for their knowledgeable and engaging storytelling. They help make sense of the strange formations, from the towering arches to the bizarre rocks that look like they’ve been plucked right out of a fantasy world.

Stop 1: Landscape Arch — This is a quick walk to the world’s longest arch, an impressive natural structure that’s worth a few moments of awe. It’s a flat, easy 5-minute walk with no extra cost, but the photo opportunities are plentiful.

Stop 2: Double O Arch — Along the hike, you’ll visit this remote and spectacular arch. Our reviews mention the guide’s skill at pacing the hike and ensuring everyone is comfortable, which is key because this stretch involves some terrain but remains accessible for most hikers.

Stop 3: Partition Arch — Another remote arch, offering stunning views and a chance to get some great shots away from the crowds. The guide will point out how these isolated formations are linked to millions of years of geological activity.

Other Scenic Stops — The tour also takes you past Balanced Rock, Navajo Arch, and scenic overlooks accessible from the vehicle. These are perfect for quick photos and enjoying the vastness of the landscape without long walks.

The Hiking Experience

Traveling through the Primitive Loop of Devil’s Garden, this is the “Fyre Furnace on steroids,” as one reviewer puts it. The terrain varies but is manageable with the right footwear and moderate fitness. The emphasis is on both hiking and photography, with guides helping you find the best angles and sharing insights on the landscape’s origin.

What Makes the Guided Hike Stand Out

Our reviews highlight the guides’ ability to blend storytelling with practical advice, making the long hike both educational and engaging. One reviewer mentions: “Paulina was full of knowledge and didn’t waste one minute of our time.” This focus on ensuring you don’t feel rushed or bored is a big plus for those who want a meaningful experience rather than just ticking off photo spots.

The Value of the Tour

At $315.12 per person, the price might seem steep at first glance, but it’s important to remember this includes a full day of guided exploration, transportation, park reservation, and expert insights. The tour’s small group setting marries the convenience of organized logistics with the intimacy of personalized attention, making it ideal for travelers who want a deep, immersive day.

Additional Considerations

• Park entry fees aren’t included in the tour price, but you can use an existing pass or buy one at the park entrance for $15 per person.
• The tour is not suitable for those with severe mobility issues, but moderate fitness is enough for most of the hike.
• As always, travelers should be prepared with appropriate footwear, water, and sun protection.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect if you’re a hiking enthusiast or someone who appreciates learning about the geology and ecology of national parks. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more intimate, guided exploration. If you’re traveling with friends or a partner who loves adventure and photography, this will likely be a highlight of your trip.

However, if you’re looking for a quick, casual look at Arches or traveling with very young children, this might not be the best fit—it’s somewhat demanding in terms of walking and time.

Final Thoughts

Taking on the Devils Garden 7-Mile Loop with a knowledgeable guide offers a rare chance to connect more deeply with Arches National Park. You’ll get a mix of stunning vistas, geological insights, and outdoor adventure, all packaged into a well-organized and highly rated experience.

For those who enjoy hiking, exploring remote landscapes, and learning from passionate guides, this tour delivers a lot of value. The reviews echo this sentiment, praising the guides’ expertise and the memorable scenery. Keep in mind the physical demands, but if you’re prepared, this could be one of the most rewarding days of your visit to Moab and Arches.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my own park pass?
No, you don’t need to buy a park entry pass in advance. The tour price doesn’t include park fees, but you can buy a pass at the entrance for $15 or use an existing one, which is often preferable.

Is the tour suitable for families?
The tour is designed for travelers with moderate physical fitness, so older children or teens who enjoy hiking should be fine. However, it’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly, so assess the stamina of your group.

What is included in the tour?
The package covers a guided 7-mile hike focused on photography and geology, park reservation, and transportation from Moab. It’s a private tour, so only your group participates.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours before the start time. The policy is flexible, which adds peace of mind.

Are there any extra costs I should be aware of?
You might need to pay for park entry unless you already have a pass. Tips are also appreciated but not mandatory; most guests tip around 15%.

What should I bring with me?
Comfortable hiking shoes, plenty of water, sun protection, and a camera are recommended. The tour is outdoor, so dress accordingly.

How long does the whole experience last?
The tour lasts around 5 to 6 hours, including transportation, stops, and the hike itself.

What if I have mobility issues?
The hike is moderately strenuous, so travelers should have a reasonable level of physical fitness. The tour may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.

Is this tour available year-round?
While specific dates aren’t detailed, the tour’s availability depends on weather and park regulations, so it’s best to book well in advance.

If you’re craving an active, educational, and scenic day in Arches, this guided hike offers a comprehensive look at the park’s wonders—perfect for those ready to lace up and explore deeply.