If you are looking for a place to explore the beauty and diversity of sandstone formations, you might want to visit Devil's Garden in Utah. Devil's Garden is a part of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, a vast and rugged landscape that preserves millions of years of geological history.
Devil's Garden is located about 12 miles south of Escalante, along the Hole-in-the-Rock Road, a dirt road that follows the route of the Mormon pioneers who crossed the Colorado River in 1879. The road is accessible by most vehicles, but it can be rough and muddy in places, so check the weather and road conditions before you go.
Devil's Garden is a small area of about 640 acres, but it contains a remarkable concentration of hoodoos, natural arches, and other sandstone formations. Hoodoos are tall and thin spires of rock that have been eroded by wind and water over time. Natural arches are formed when softer rock underneath a harder layer wears away, leaving a hole or a bridge. Some of the most notable features in Devil's Garden are:
- Metate Arch: A delicate arch that resembles a metate, a stone tool used by Native Americans to grind corn and other grains.
- Mano Arch: A smaller arch next to Metate Arch that looks like a mano, a hand-held stone used with a metate.
- Four Hoodoos: A group of four hoodoos near the parking lot that have different shapes and colors.
- The Marching Trolls: A row of hoodoos that look like they are marching along the landscape.
- The Goblins Lair: A hidden alcove behind a wall of hoodoos that has a dark and mysterious atmosphere.
Devil's Garden is a great place to hike, picnic, and take photos. The main trail is about half a mile long and easy to follow. You can also wander off the trail and climb on some of the rocks, but be careful not to damage them or disturb any wildlife. The best time to visit is in the early morning or late afternoon, when the sun casts soft light and long shadows on the formations. You can also enjoy stargazing at night, as the area has very little light pollution.
Devil's Garden is an outstanding natural area that showcases the power and beauty of nature. It is a must-see destination for anyone who loves rock formations and desert scenery. If you are planning to visit Devil's Garden, make sure to respect the land and leave no trace of your presence. Remember that you are a guest in this ancient and fragile garden.