The arch is visually appealing, and its shape and size make it seem like an amazing feat of nature. We observed Landscape Arch from a small viewing platform on the right side – that’s as close as you can get for safety reasons. Like many arches, it was named by Frank Beckwith during his 1933-1934 exploration of the area. Nearby, we spotted Landscape Arch – seemingly the most popular formation on this trail. We were surprised, since the terrain was still relatively flat. Just before reaching the arch, we passed an inconspicuous sign on the right, letting us know we were already technically on the Primitive Loop Trail. Approaching Pine Tree Arch The “back” of Pine Tree Arch after walking through the opening Landscape ArchĪs we enjoyed prairie views, we continued on to Landscape Arch. ![]() On the side trail that splits to Pine Tree Arch (left) and Tunnel Arch (right) Our first arch of the hike, Tunnel Arch. After admiring the rock formation, we backtracked until we were back on the main Devils Garden Trail. Walking through an arch gives you a different vantage point, which we appreciated. Before we knew it, we were walking through the large arch, which has several pine trees at its base. On the way to the nearby Pine Tree Arch, we had views of fins and the prairie to the north. Then we turned around and went the other way to Pine Tree Arch. We couldn’t get close to this one, as it’s high up and off the trail. Unless the lighting and angle are ideal, it can be difficult to spot. It took a little bit of searching, but we saw it off towards our right in the distance. ![]() A short distance down the trail, we started looking for the arch. First, we took the trail on the right to Tunnel Arch. We headed downhill, and the trail split again to the left and right. After a quarter mile, we turned right onto a side trail to check out our first two arches. Layers are also helpful – we had jackets since it was cool, but the weather would warm up significantly. The hike doesn’t have much shade, so a hat and sunscreen are a must. Initially the path takes you through some large fins, which is a dramatic start. Packed parking lot The trailhead Near the start of the trail – it was a perfect day for a hike Tunnel and Pine Tree Arches Both are located on short spurs off the main trail. Our first destinations were Tunnel and Pine Tree Arches. Our feet hit the graded gravel trail and we were off. The same guide is also available online as a PDF from the National Park Service. The brochure provides a map, details on hike options, and information about the area. A trail guide was available to purchase for $0.50, so we grabbed one. ![]() This was one trail that we had really been looking forward to, so we were excited as we approached the trailhead. It was a sunny, yet cool morning – perfect for starting an all day hike. It takes awhile to get to the trailhead from the park entrance, so plan to leave extra early if you’re staying outside the park. When we arrived in the massive parking lot around 9am, it was already packed with visitors. The trailhead is located at the north end of the main park road, but it’s only 0.3 miles from the campground. Devils Garden TrailĪfter our last night in Devils Garden Campground, we headed to the nearby trail with the same name. ![]() If you’ve read our other posts, you probably already know we planned to do the whole 7.8 mile trail, including the primitive loop along with every arch and feature we could find. There are many ways you can hike Devils Garden – a short out and back (to Landscape Arch), longer out and back (to Double O Arch), or hiking the entire Primitive Loop Trail. The trail forms a lollipop loop, with several side trails. There are also six other main arches, a large obelisk called Dark Angel, and a few other formations that aren’t as well advertised. The featured arch on the hike is Landscape Arch, the longest in North America. Devils Garden Trail is a full-day hike, and worth every minute. And the second-most crowded (beat only by Delicate Arch Trail). This is the big one – the longest maintained trail in Arches National Park.
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