Quick Facts:

Location: Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument near Escalante, Utah

Coordinates: 37.585753835509735, -111.41454512093729

Length: .5 Miles

Difficulty: Easy

Elevation Gain: Less than 50 feet

Dog Friendly: Yes

Introduction:

Devil’s Garden, located in the heart of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument near Escalante, Utah, is a playground of natural rock formations that captivates hikers and photographers alike. This unique area, known for its whimsical hoodoos, arches, and balanced rocks, offers an easy and family-friendly hiking experience. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Escalante area.

How to Get There:

To reach Devil’s Garden, start in the town of Escalante, Utah. From Escalante, head east on Highway 12 for about 5 miles, then turn right onto Hole-in-the-Rock Road, a well-known dirt road that leads to many of the area’s natural attractions. Continue on Hole-in-the-Rock Road for approximately 12 miles until you see the sign for Devil’s Garden on the right. The road is unpaved but generally passable by most vehicles, although a high-clearance or 4WD vehicle is recommended, especially after rain.

Parking Information:

The parking area at Devil’s Garden is spacious and well-maintained, with plenty of room for vehicles. The parking lot is located right next to the main rock formations, making it easy to access the site. There are picnic tables and a few shaded areas, but no restroom facilities, so be sure to come prepared with everything you need. Arriving early is advisable during peak seasons to ensure you get a good spot.

Description of the Landscape:

Devil’s Garden is a natural wonderland, featuring a diverse collection of hoodoos, arches, and other rock formations that have been sculpted by wind and water over millions of years. The landscape is open and easy to explore, with sandy paths winding through the formations. The site’s most famous features include Metate Arch, a delicate natural arch, and the various balanced rocks that seem to defy gravity. The area is relatively small, but the intricate shapes and colors of the rock make it feel like a maze of geological curiosities. The red and orange sandstone against the blue Utah sky creates a vibrant, picturesque setting that’s perfect for photography.

Trail Difficulty and Length:

Devil’s Garden is more of a walking and exploring area than a traditional hike, making it suitable for visitors of all ages and fitness levels. The entire area can be explored in about an hour or two, depending on how much time you spend climbing around the rocks and taking photos. The paths are mostly flat, with only minor elevation changes, making it easy to navigate. Because there is no defined trail, you can explore at your own pace and create your own adventure among the rock formations.

Dog-Friendly Information:

Devil’s Garden is dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your canine companions along for the adventure. The open, sandy terrain is easy for dogs to navigate, and there’s plenty of shade provided by the rock formations to keep them cool. Just remember to bring enough water for both you and your dog, as the desert environment can be hot and dry. Also, keep your dog on a leash to protect the fragile environment and respect other visitors.

Local Regulations:

When visiting Devil’s Garden, it’s important to follow Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the area’s natural beauty. This includes packing out all trash, staying on established paths where possible, and not disturbing the rock formations. Although Devil’s Garden is a more casual hiking area, it is still part of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, so be mindful of any posted regulations or guidelines. Avoid climbing on fragile rock formations to prevent damage.

Other Trails Nearby:

If you’re looking to explore more of the area, the nearby Zebra and Tunnel Slot Canyons offer a more challenging and adventurous hiking experience. Located further down Hole-in-the-Rock Road, these slot canyons are known for their narrow passages and stunning rock formations. Another great option is the Lower Calf Creek Falls trail, which features a 126-foot waterfall and is a short drive from Escalante.

Non-Hiking Attractions Nearby:

For those interested in exploring more of the region beyond hiking, the town of Escalante offers several attractions. The Escalante Petrified Forest State Park, located just a few miles from town, showcases ancient petrified wood and colorful badlands. The Anasazi State Park Museum in nearby Boulder, Utah, provides a fascinating look at the area’s ancient Native American history. Scenic drives, such as the Burr Trail and Highway 12, offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and are great for those looking to experience the beauty of the Grand Staircase-Escalante without hiking.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit Devil’s Garden is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when temperatures are cooler and more comfortable for exploring. Summer can bring intense heat, making it less enjoyable to spend time in the open desert environment. Winter is also a good time to visit, although the temperatures can be quite cold. Regardless of the season, it’s best to visit early in the day or later in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and to enjoy the soft lighting that enhances the beauty of the rock formations.