Double O Arch Arches National Park
A challenging hike leads to a spectacular, stacked double arch, offering an adventurous and less crowded experience in Arches National Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Double O Arch Arches National Park
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging hike leads to a spectacular, stacked double arch, offering an adventurous and less crowded experience in Arches National Park.
"The hike made it worth it tho!"
Pack Extra Water! 💧
The hike to Double O Arch is strenuous and exposed. Carry more water than you think you'll need.
Timed Entry is Crucial 🎟️
Arches National Park requires timed entry permits during peak season. Book in advance!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Double O Arch
End of Devil's Garden Trail
A unique, stacked double arch offering epic views and an adventurous hike.
Primitive Trail Scramble
Devil's Garden Trail
Navigate slickrock fins and enjoy breathtaking, off-the-beaten-path scenery.
Lower Arch Climb
Double O Arch
Climb into the lower arch for unique photo opportunities, especially with kids.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timed Entry & Water are Key
Embrace the Primitive Trail
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack Extra Water! 💧
The hike to Double O Arch is strenuous and exposed. Carry more water than you think you'll need.
Timed Entry is Crucial 🎟️
Arches National Park requires timed entry permits during peak season. Book in advance!
Embrace the Primitive Trail 🧗♀️
Be prepared for scrambling over slickrock fins with drop-offs on the Primitive Trail.
Footing in the Sand Pit 🏜️
The area around the arch is a sand pit, so mind your footing during your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack Extra Water! 💧
The hike to Double O Arch is strenuous and exposed. Carry more water than you think you'll need.
Timed Entry is Crucial 🎟️
Arches National Park requires timed entry permits during peak season. Book in advance!
Embrace the Primitive Trail 🧗♀️
Be prepared for scrambling over slickrock fins with drop-offs on the Primitive Trail.
Footing in the Sand Pit 🏜️
The area around the arch is a sand pit, so mind your footing during your visit.
Kid-Friendly Climb 👨👩👧
You can climb into the lower arch for photos; kids might need a helping hand.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the unique beauty of Double O Arch, calling the hike to reach it a rewarding adventure. While the Primitive Trail presents challenges with scrambling and drop-offs, many find it well worth the effort for the stunning views and fewer crowds compared to other park attractions.
"Great rock formations, it’s quite a hike but if you want to see bigger ones, go check double arch. The hike made it worth it tho!"
Robert Breno
"Located at the end of the Devil's Garden Trail this unique landmark features two stacked arches. One of the lesser crowded sites as it requires a moderately strenuous hike on top of fins with 100-foot drop offs. Well worth the hike in my humble opinion!"
Luis Diaz
"The main reward for hiking the devils garden trail. This set of arches is pretty impressive, to say the least. You get a glimpse and the best distance photo spot as you round the corner off a rock traverse section. You know you're close when you find the boulder that is barely hanging onto the trail path.
You can climb in the lower arch to get pictures of the kids. The climb into the arch is like a slide, so they might need a helping hand.
There are shadded areas to rest and break out snacks to recharge for the hike back or forward. The main area around the arch is a sand pit, so mind your footing."
Adam Cook
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Double O Arch is located at the end of the Devil's Garden Trail in Arches National Park. The trailhead is accessible by car. The hike itself is about 4.2 miles roundtrip and involves navigating the Primitive Trail, which includes scrambling over slickrock fins.
The Devil's Garden Trail becomes significantly more strenuous after Landscape Arch. The Primitive Trail section involves steep, rocky scrambling and exposure to drop-offs, making it moderately challenging.
No, you cannot drive directly to Double O Arch. It requires a hike from the Devil's Garden Trailhead. The hike is a significant part of the experience.
The Primitive Trail is an unmaintained, more challenging section of the Devil's Garden Trail. It involves route-finding with cairns, scrambling over rock fins, and navigating exposed areas.
While there are some connecting trails within Devil's Garden, the most direct and rewarding route to Double O Arch is via the main Devil's Garden Trail, including the Primitive Trail section.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Arches National Park typically requires a timed entry permit during peak seasons. It's essential to check the official NPS website and book your permit in advance to guarantee entry.
Arches National Park is generally open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. However, access may be limited by timed entry reservations. Always check the official park website for current operating hours and any alerts.
The entrance fee for Arches National Park is typically per vehicle. You can also use an America the Beautiful Pass for entry. Check the NPS website for the most current fee information.
You need a timed entry permit to enter Arches National Park, which allows you access to all trails, including the Devil's Garden Trail leading to Double O Arch. The hike itself does not require a separate permit.
Timed entry permits for Arches National Park are released in advance and can sell out quickly, especially for popular dates. It's recommended to book as soon as they become available on the recreation.gov website.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike to Double O Arch is a 4.2-mile out-and-back trail considered moderately challenging. It features slickrock scrambling, fins with drop-offs, and requires good route-finding skills.
While children can hike the trail, the Primitive Trail section with drop-offs and scrambling can be challenging. Climbing into the lower arch might require assistance for younger children.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip for scrambling on slickrock. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended due to the desert heat. Sun protection (hat, sunscreen) is essential.
Restrooms are available at the Devil's Garden Trailhead. There are no facilities along the Primitive Trail section, so be prepared.
The hike to Double O Arch is approximately 4.2 miles roundtrip. Allow 3-4 hours to complete the hike, including time for photos and enjoying the scenery.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The best photo spots are from the trail as you approach the arch, offering views of both openings. You can also climb into the lower arch for unique perspectives.
Early morning or late afternoon light provides the most dramatic shadows and warm tones on the sandstone. Midday sun can be harsh.
Drone usage is restricted in all US National Parks, including Arches. Please check the official NPS website for current regulations regarding drones.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the arches. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light conditions.
The 'snake looking arch' mentioned by some visitors offers a unique perspective. Climbing into the lower arch also provides interesting framing opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you do attempt the Primitive Trail with older children, ensure they have sturdy footwear and are comfortable with heights. The ability to climb into the lower arch is a highlight for kids, but they may need a helping hand. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and be prepared for a longer hike than anticipated.
💪 Adventurous Hikers
Be sure to carry ample water, wear appropriate footwear with excellent grip, and have a good sense of direction for route-finding. The 4.2-mile out-and-back hike is considered moderately strenuous, but the unique geological features and the iconic Double O Arch make it a standout experience for experienced hikers.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't just focus on the arch itself; the Primitive Trail leading up to it is incredibly photogenic. Capture the textures of the slickrock, the vast desert vistas, and the sense of adventure. A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the scale, while a telephoto lens can be used for more detailed shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Devil's Garden Trail Adventure
Many visitors find the challenge of the Primitive Trail to be incredibly rewarding. The unique geological formations and the sense of accomplishment upon reaching Double O Arch make it a memorable part of any Arches National Park visit. It's crucial to assess your fitness level and comfort with heights before embarking on this part of the trail.
For those seeking a less strenuous experience, the initial portion of the Devil's Garden Trail to Landscape Arch is still highly recommended. It showcases impressive arches and offers stunning desert scenery without the intense scrambling.
Understanding the Primitive Trail
One of the key aspects of the Primitive Trail is the exposure. There are sections with significant drop-offs, and while the rock is generally grippy, a misstep can be dangerous. This is why sturdy hiking boots with good traction are non-negotiable. The trail also involves scrambling, meaning you'll need to use your hands to pull yourself up and over obstacles.
Despite its challenges, the Primitive Trail offers an unparalleled sense of adventure and solitude. Past Landscape Arch, the crowds significantly thin out, allowing for a more intimate experience with the park's incredible geology. It’s a true test of your hiking skills and a fantastic way to earn the breathtaking views of Double O Arch.
Photography at Double O Arch
Consider using a wide-angle lens to encompass the entire arch and its surroundings, highlighting its scale against the vast desert landscape. For a more intimate shot, a telephoto lens can isolate details or capture the texture of the rock. Don't forget to experiment with different angles; climbing into the lower arch can provide a unique perspective, especially for capturing people within the archway.
Remember that the hike to Double O Arch is part of the photographic journey. The Primitive Trail itself offers stunning vistas and interesting rock formations that make for compelling shots. Be mindful of the challenging terrain when setting up your tripod, and always prioritize safety.
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