Hiking the Dark Angel Trail in Arches National Park

For hikers looking to experience the full scope of Arches National Park’s backcountry beauty, the Dark Angel Trail offers an unforgettable journey. Located at the far end of the Devils Garden area, this lesser-traveled path leads to a dramatic sandstone monolith rising high above the desert floor. The Dark Angel Trail adds a quiet and scenic extension to the popular Devils Garden hike, making it an ideal option for visitors who want to go a little farther and see something few others do.

Trail Overview

• Distance: 4.6 miles round trip from Devils Garden Trailhead

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Elevation Gain: About 400 feet

• Estimated Time: 2.5 to 3.5 hours

• Trail Type: Out and Back

• Trail Connection: Begins at Devils Garden Trail and extends beyond Double O Arch.

Getting to the Trailhead

Start your adventure at the Devils Garden Trailhead, located at the very end of Arches Scenic Drive, approximately 18 miles north of the Arches Visitor Center. The drive takes about 30 minutes and passes many of the park’s most iconic views along the way.

Parking is available at the trailhead, along with vault toilets and a water refill station. This is a popular area, so arrive early in the day to secure a space and beat the crowds on the earlier sections of the trail.

Hiking the Dark Angel Trail

The route to Dark Angel begins with the main Devils Garden Trail. You will pass major landmarks such as Landscape Arch, Navajo Arch, and Partition Arch before reaching Double O Arch, approximately 2.1 miles in. From here, a signed spur trail leads northwest for 0.8 miles to the base of Dark Angel.

This final stretch offers a more remote and open feel, with fewer hikers and broad views of the surrounding canyonlands. The trail becomes sandier and more exposed as you approach the towering formation of Dark Angel, a 150 foot sandstone spire standing in stark contrast to the open sky.

Hikers are not allowed to climb Dark Angel, but you can explore around its base and enjoy panoramic views of the Salt Valley, the Fiery Furnace, and distant mesas. The sense of solitude and the unique perspective make this a rewarding destination for those willing to go a bit beyond the main loop.

Best Time to Hike

The best times to hike to Dark Angel are early morning and late afternoon during the spring and fall. Cooler temperatures and lower sun angles make for a more enjoyable hike and better lighting for photos. During summer, the trail can be extremely hot and shade is minimal, so plan for an early start and bring extra water.

Winter hikes can be peaceful and quiet, though the trail may be icy in shaded spots.

What to Bring

• At least 2 liters of water per person

• High energy snacks or a light lunch

• Comfortable hiking shoes with good tread

• A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection

• A camera or smartphone for photos of the arches and spire

• A light jacket depending on time of year or weather forecast

Safety and Preservation

This is a desert backcountry trail, so come prepared. Stay on marked paths to avoid damaging delicate soil crusts and always respect natural features. Dark Angel is a protected formation and climbing it is not permitted. Follow all Leave No Trace principles to ensure this quiet corner of Arches remains pristine for future hikers.

Cell service is limited in this area, so consider downloading maps before your hike or carrying a GPS device.

Nearby Attractions

Since Dark Angel is an extension of the Devils Garden Trail, hikers can combine their visit with stops at Landscape Arch, Double O Arch, and several smaller side trails. For a longer and more challenging day, consider completing the full Devils Garden Primitive Loop which includes more remote sections and additional arch views.

After your hike, return to the scenic drive and stop at viewpoints like Skyline Arch, Sand Dune Arch, or Fiery Furnace for short walks and sunset photo opportunities.

Go Beyond the Crowds at Dark Angel

If you want to explore the quieter corners of Arches National Park while still seeing some of its most iconic features, the Dark Angel Trail offers the perfect blend of beauty and solitude. The towering spire and sweeping views at the end of the trail make the extra effort more than worthwhile.

Plan your hike today and experience one of Arches National Park’s most awe-inspiring formations, far from the crowds and deep in the desert.