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

When thinking about visiting Arches National Park, most travelers picture iconic formations like Delicate Arch or Balanced Rock. But if you’re craving a more immersive, active experience, the Devils Garden 7-Mile Loop offers a challenging yet rewarding adventure. For about $315 per person, you’ll spend around 5 to 6 hours exploring the park’s most fascinating sights with a professional guide, all while tackling a route that’s perfect for those with a moderate level of fitness. The tour, operated by Moab In A Day LLC, includes pickup, timed-entry reservation into the park, and a detailed exploration of both natural wonders and geological history.

Two aspects we particularly appreciate are the expert guidance—the guides not only lead you through spectacular scenery but also share insights into the geology, ecology, and cultural background—and the small-group atmosphere which makes the experience feel personalized and relaxed. One potential consideration is that the hike is mildly strenuous, so it’s best suited for those comfortable on their feet and with some hiking experience.

This tour is an excellent choice for adventure-minded travelers who want more than just a quick look at the park’s highlights. If you’re eager to learn about the mysterious landscape while getting your heart rate up, and enjoy being in good company, this trip will likely tick all your boxes.

Key Points

• Expert-guided adventure: Knowledgeable guides enhance your understanding of Arches’ geology and history.
• Active exploration: The 7-mile hike offers a physical challenge balanced with stunning scenery.
• Full park experience: Includes stops at famous arches and scenic overlooks, plus a walk through Devils Garden.
• Flexible for moderate fitness levels: Suitable for those comfortable with a mildly strenuous walk.
• Small group setting: Ensures personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Additional costs: Park entrance fee ($15) not included, but your park pass or purchase on-site can cover this.

An In-Depth Look at the Devils Garden Hike Challenge

What Makes This Tour Special?

This isn’t your average stroll through Arches. The Devils Garden 7-mile loop is often described as “the Primitive Loop of Devil’s Garden on steroids,” highlighting its more rugged, adventurous spirit. With guided expertise, you’ll traverse a route that showcases some of the park’s most famous formations—including Landscape Arch, the longest in the world, along with Double O Arch and Partition Arch. These remote, striking features are rarely seen on quick visits or large group tours, giving you a sense of discovery.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour starts bright and early at 7:00 am from the meeting point at 150 E Center St, Moab. After a brief introduction, your guide will take you on a scenic drive along the park’s best overlooks, with well-timed stops at key points like Balanced Rock, Navajo Arch, and other scenic vistas. These stops not only provide fantastic photo ops but also serve as orientation points for the hike ahead.

The main adventure kicks off with a 7-mile hike into the Devils Garden area. The trail is marked as mildly strenuous, meaning you should be comfortable with a good walk that involves some uneven terrain and moderate elevation changes. The guide’s experience shines here—they’ll help you navigate the remote arches like Double O and Partition Arch, which are accessible along the route but feel worlds away from the bustling main attractions.

What You’ll See and Feel

Expect to be awestruck by the sheer scale and beauty of formations like Landscape Arch, which you’ll visit in about five minutes—it’s astonishingly long and delicate. The scenery feels timeless, as if you’ve entered a different planet. Our guides excel at providing insights into the geologic events that shaped this landscape over millions of years, which adds a fascinating layer of understanding to your experience.

Reaching Double O and Partition Arches, you’ll get a real sense of the remote wilderness that makes this part of the park so captivating. According to reviews, guides like Paulina enhance the adventure with vast knowledge and attentive care, making sure you’re not just walking but truly learning and appreciating each feature.

Authentic Experiences and Authentic Guides

The reviews are full of praise for the knowledgeable guides. One reviewer noted that Paulina “went out of her way” and was “full of knowledge,” making the trip both fun and educational. Another appreciated how the guide tailored the experience, respecting slower paces and ensuring plenty of breaks, especially on hot days. This personal touch creates an environment where travelers feel comfortable, informed, and truly engaged.

Logistics and Practicalities

The $15 park entrance fee isn’t included in the tour price, but that’s typical as it allows guests with existing passes to avoid extra costs. The timed-entry reservation ensures you get in without long waits, a crucial aspect during busy seasons.

The group size is limited to your private booking, making it a more intimate experience. The pickup from Moab is included, saving you hassle and time. The tour operates with moderate physical demands, and travelers should be comfortable walking on uneven terrain. If you’re unsure about your fitness level, the guides are attentive, and the stops are well spaced, which helps.

Why This Tour Is Worth Your Time

The $315 price might seem steep at first glance, but it’s important to consider what’s included: expert-guided instruction, private or small group setting, full-day exploration, and the chance to see and experience some of the most iconic natural features of Arches—features you’d probably miss or rush past on a standard visit.

The tour’s value is amplified for those who want a deeper understanding of the park’s geology, ecology, and cultural stories—something that’s hard to get on a fleeting visit. Plus, the stunning photo opportunities and the sense of adventure in a less touristy part of the park make it a compelling choice for landscape lovers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re active and curious, eager to explore more intensely than a usual sightseeing bus or car tour, this is ideal. It suits adventure travelers comfortable walking several miles and interested in learning along the way. The guided aspect makes it perfect for first-timers wanting to understand more, while seasoned hikers will appreciate the challenge and remote scenery.

Final Thoughts

This Devils Garden Hike Challenge offers a rich blend of adventure, education, and breathtaking scenery. It’s best suited for travelers who want to push themselves physically while gaining insider knowledge about one of Utah’s most remarkable landscapes. The small-group setting and guided expertise ensure a safe, memorable, and personalized experience.

For those looking for a more in-depth and active exploration of Arches—beyond the quick photo stops—this tour provides a meaningful, authentic journey through stone and time.

FAQ

How long is the hike?
The hike covers approximately 7 miles, taking around 5 to 6 hours including stops, scenic viewing, and breaks.

Is the hike suitable for all fitness levels?
It’s described as mildly strenuous, so a moderate fitness level is recommended. Comfort with walking on uneven terrain is helpful.

Do I need my own park pass?
No, the tour includes a timed-entry reservation for Arches. You will need to pay the park entrance fee ($15) unless you already have a valid pass.

What’s included in the price?
The tour fee covers guiding, a 7-mile guided hike, park reservation, and pickup from Moab. It does not include park entry fees or tips.

Can I cancel if I get sick?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Are children allowed?
While not explicitly stated, the moderate physical demand suggests it’s best for those comfortable with a good walk; children should be prepared accordingly.

What makes the guides stand out?
Guests rave about guides like Paulina, highlighting their knowledge and personalized attention, which elevates the experience.

Is this tour suitable for photography enthusiasts?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention amazing photo opportunities, and the stops at iconic formations are perfect for capturing memories.

What if I want a less active experience?
This tour is targeted at those wanting a more active exploration. For easier options, consider shorter tours or scenic drives.

In essence, the Arches National Park Hike Challenge is a fantastic choice for explorers who want more than just a snapshot of Moab’s natural beauty. It offers a well-balanced mix of physical challenge, educational insight, and stunning vistas—all guided by experts who care about making your experience meaningful.