Hiking Double O Arch trail: What Makes This Utah Route So Special

If you're heading to Arches National Park and want a hike that feels like a real adventure without being too difficult, the Double O Arch Utah trail might be perfect for you. It’s a fun trail with amazing views, cool rock shapes, and the kind of peace you can only get far from the crowds. Whether you’re a regular hiker or just looking for something different on your trip to Moab, this trail gives you a great mix of fun and beauty.

What Makes the Double O Arch Trail Special 

This trail is in the Devils Garden area of Arches National Park. It gets its name from a unique rock formation that has two arches stacked on top of each other, one big and one small. It’s not something you see every day. Getting there involves hiking through desert terrain, climbing over rocks, and walking on narrow paths. 

Even though it’s not super long, the trail still gives you the feeling of being deep in nature. If you're up for a bit of scrambling and walking across rocky areas, it can be one of the best parts of your visit.

How Long Is the Hike? 

The trail is about 4.2 miles round trip if you go straight to the arch and back. Most people finish it in about 2 to 3 hours. If you decide to do the full loop with other arches like Navajo or Partition Arch, it can be closer to 7 miles. 

The path is not flat. You’ll climb around 500 to 700 feet total, which adds a little challenge. It’s not too hard, but it’s not a walk in the park either. Some parts are steep or have drop-offs, so be careful and watch your step.

When Should You Go? 

Spring and fall are the best times. In summer, it gets super hot – think over 100°F – and there’s hardly any shade. That can make the hike feel much harder than it really is. Head out early in the morning to stay cool and enjoy fewer people on the trail. 

If you go in winter, be ready for icy parts. The trail can be slippery and cold, but the park is much quieter.

What Should You Bring? 

You don’t need a lot, but you do need the right things: 

• Water – at least 2 liters per person 

• Sturdy shoes like trail runners or hiking boots with good grip. 

• Bring a hat and sunscreen — the sun can be intense out there. 

• Snacks – to keep your energy up 

• Map or GPS – some trail signs aren’t super clear 

Also, keep in mind there’s no cell signal in many parts of the park, so don’t expect your phone to help you out if you get turned around.

What You'll See on the Way 

The trail starts off pretty chill. You’ll first pass Landscape Arch, which is the longest natural arch in North America. It’s huge and very thin. After that, things get more fun (and more challenging). 

There are some parts where you’ll walk on narrow rock fins and climb short rock sections. If you’re nervous about heights, these might make you pause, but most hikers do fine. The scenery keeps getting more and more beautiful the farther you hike. Red rocks stretch out in every direction, and you’ll likely see very few people once you’re past the popular Landscape Arch area. 

Before reaching the double arch itself, you might spot other cool rock formations and even some desert animals like lizards or ravens.

The Arch at the End 

When you get to the end, you’ll see the double arch — one big circle of rock with a smaller one right beneath it. You can walk right up to it and rest in the shade before heading back. 

It’s quiet out there, and the rocks make a perfect spot for a break. Many people take photos here because the arches frame the sky beautifully.

Can Kids or Beginners Do This? 

If the kids are active and like climbing, they can do it. Just make sure they know to stay away from the edges in the steep spots. If someone in your group has never hiked before, you might want to stop at Landscape Arch and turn back there. That section is easier and still very pretty.

Extra Tips 

Don’t bring your dog. Pets aren’t allowed on any of the trails in Arches. 

Pack it in, pack it out. There are no trash cans once you leave the trailhead. 

Watch the weather. Thunderstorms can hit fast, and the rocks get slippery. 

Don’t climb on the arches. It’s dangerous and against the rules.

Other Trails Nearby 

If you like this hike, you might want to try these too: 

Navajo and Partition Arches – just a short side trail off the main path. 

Devils Garden Primitive Loop – a longer version of the trail that’s less crowded. 

Broken Arch and Sand Dune Arch – easier hikes with cool scenery.

A Fun Hike for Non-Experts 

Hiking to the Double O Arch Utah trail gives you a real sense of adventure without needing expert skills. You’ll see one of the park’s most unique formations, get some exercise, and enjoy big views the whole way. 

For a full guide with extra tips and photos, check out Unicorn Adventure — they do a great job helping people plan fun and simple hikes like this one.