Looking to get wild in Arches National Park? If you’re ready to explore red rock landscapes that feel otherworldly, Double O Arch in Moab is calling.

Why Double O Arch

Hey, it’s Tyler — a.k.a. Granola Guy. Welcome back to the Stay Wild: Adventure Report Series, where I share monthly guides to hikes, ski lines, backpacking trails, and bike routes that keep us exploring. Each post is designed to help you feel ready, motivated, and fueled (with Granola Girl Granola in your pack, of course) for your next adventure.

Arches National Park is a playground of sandstone and sunlight — home to more than 2,000 natural arches. But Double O Arch, part of the Devils Garden Trail, stands out for its sense of discovery and pure fun getting there. It’s the perfect mix of adventure, family challenge, and red rock magic.

Trail Stats

Trailhead & Starting Out

The trail begins at the Devils Garden Trailhead, tucked at the very end of the Arches National Park road. Parking can be competitive — especially during a government shutdown. With the kids on fall break, we had to rely on patience (and maybe a little universe karma). Sure enough, just as we looped back through the lot, a spot opened up right in front of us — and the whole car erupted in cheers.

This time, the crew was all together — Aubrey (a.k.a. Granola Girl) and the three youngest kids — making it a full-on family adventure. Before we left, we fueled up with a Kodiak Cakes x Granola Girl crossover: White Chocolate Raspberry Granola folded into pancake batter — an instant family favorite.

The afternoon air was cool, the sandstone glowed orange, and everyone was buzzing with energy. There are roughly six arches along this trail, but we chose to see four — a perfect balance between adventure and achievability for the kids. We’ve done the full route before, and each arch has its own personality and sense of wonder.

Breaking Down the Hike

Desert Warm-Up (Trailhead → Landscape Arch)

The opening stretch is mellow, winding through sandy terrain dotted with juniper and sage. Landscape Arch — one of the world’s longest natural arches — makes a perfect first stop. The kids were amazed by how massive (and thin) it was, half expecting it to crumble at any moment.

Scramble & Snack Stop (Landscape Arch → Fins)

After Landscape Arch, the trail turns playful — slickrock scrambles, narrow ledges, and wide-open views. About halfway up one of the fins, we found a shady spot for a picnic lunch, where we met three curious chipmunks who quickly earned the names Alvin, Simon, and Theodore.

We shared sandwiches and trail snacks — finishing with a handful of Granola Girl White Chocolate Raspberry for dessert. Crunchy, sweet, and the perfect energy boost before tackling the next section.

The Payoff (Final Stretch → Double O Arch)

Fueled and laughing, we pushed on toward Double O Arch. The trail wound over sculpted red fins until the twin arches came into view — one large “O” stacked over a smaller one. The kids climbed through the lower arch, their voices echoing in the sandstone canyon.

From the viewpoint above, the panorama stretched toward the desert basin and the distant La Sal Mountains — a reminder of how vast and wild this place really is.

On the Trail: Highlights

Chipmunk Trio: Alvin, Simon, and Theodore were fearless — practically posing for photos. The kids wanted to share granola, but we decided to let them stick to their desert diet.

Family Adventure Energy: Watching the kids scramble across slickrock, test their footing, and gaze out at the vast landscape was magic — equal parts confidence-building and humbling.

Together Time: The conversations that happen on the trail — the silly ones, the deep ones, the quiet moments — are what make these adventures irreplaceable.

Epic Views: Every turn offers a postcard-worthy view of red rock formations, arches, and endless sky.

Final Thoughts & Tips

• Start early: Beat the crowds and the heat.
• Pack extra water and snacks: The desert dries you out faster than you think.
• Good shoes matter: You’ll be on slickrock — traction is everything.
• Stay together: Great for families, but be cautious near drop-offs.
• Slow down: Double O Arch isn’t just a destination — it’s a chance to sit, snack, and take it all in.

Double O Arch proves that adventure doesn’t have to be extreme to be unforgettable. It’s a hike that blends challenge, beauty, and connection — with your family, with nature, and yes, with the crunchy goodness in your pack.

So next time you’re in Moab, grab your crew, pack some Granola Girl, and hit the trail.
The arches — and maybe a few chipmunks — are waiting.