TrailDevil’s Garden Trail
7.9-mile loop with a Primitive Trail scrambleβtest your grit. Start early, pack water.

Balanced Rock loop is a 0.3-0.4 mile round trip with roughly 24-45 feet of gain. The route is largely paved, with some unpaved patches and a few uneven surfaces. Itβs an Easy Stroll under full sun, so bring water and sun protection. The payoff is an up-close look at Balanced Rock and distant La Sal Mountains.
Easy Stroll
Balanced Rock up close; views toward the La Sal Mountains from the loop
β’ Hike the loop in either direction for different perspectives. β’ Visit at sunrise or sunset for light and fewer crowds. β’ The main lot fills earlyβplan to arrive by 7:00 AM or visit on weekdays/shoulder seasons.
Spring and Fall
Very suitable for families with young children due to short distance and minimal elevation gain
Hikers praise the easy access and iconic rock, with crowds and limited parking as the main drawbacks.
Entrance fee paid at the park entrance station; timed entry reservations may be required during peak seasons.
Private shuttle services operate within the park, but no shuttle is mandatory for this trail.
Full sun with no shade; carry ample water and sunscreen; arrive early to minimize delays from crowds
Mostly accessible; short distance with paved sections and a few uneven patches
Very suitable for families with young children due to short distance and minimal elevation gain
Vault toilet at picnic area across park road from Balanced Rock; visitor center nearby
Hikers praise the easy access and iconic rock, with crowds and limited parking as the main drawbacks.
Based on 968 Google reviews
Based on 968 guest reviews
" Hikers praise the easy access and iconic rock, with crowds and limited parking as the main drawbacks."
Showing 1 of 968 reviews
Major threats are minimal on this short, well-maintained path; follow standard desert hiking precautions and stay hydrated.
Leashed dogs are allowed on paved portions of the trail; keep them on leash and away from rock formations.
Arrive by 7:00 AM to secure a spot; otherwise plan to visit during shoulder seasons or weekdays to avoid crowds.
No special permit is required for day use; pay the standard park entrance fee; timed-entry reservations may apply during peak seasons.
Yes. The short distance and minimal elevation gain make it ideal for families; expect full sun and bring water.
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