Hiking with kids in Utah’s national parks is more than just a family outing—it’s a chance to create lasting memories and help your children fall in love with nature. One of the most scenic and rewarding trails in Arches National Park is the hike to Double O Arch Utah, located deep within the Devils Garden area. This hike combines natural beauty with just the right amount of challenge, making it a great choice for adventurous families who are ready to step off the beaten path.
What to Expect on the Trail
The trail to Double O Arch is about 4.2 miles one-way, making it a moderately long hike. It begins at the Devils Garden Trailhead and passes several famous formations, including the massive Landscape Arch. While not the easiest path, it’s manageable with older kids who have hiking experience and a sense of adventure. The trail includes some narrow ledges and slick rock areas, which may require hand-holding and extra care. There are also a few rock scrambles that can be exciting for children if approached with caution.
Unlike shorter kid-friendly trails in Arches National Park, this route gives families a chance to see more of the park’s rugged and remote landscape. It also offers breaks at several points of interest, allowing kids to rest and explore while enjoying the views.
Preparing Your Kids for the Hike
Before setting out, it’s important to help your kids understand what the trail involves. Talk to them about the hike’s length, terrain, and what they’ll see along the way. Use pictures or videos to show them formations like Navajo Arch or Partition Arch, which are great spots for snack breaks.
Make sure everyone has comfortable hiking shoes with good grip. Since much of the trail involves walking on slick rock, sneakers or hiking boots are a must. Carry plenty of water—at least two liters per person—and pack snacks with protein and carbs to keep your kids energized.
Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are also important. The desert sun in Moab, Utah, can be intense, even in cooler months. Since there’s little shade along the trail, staying protected from the sun is essential.
Safety Tips for Hiking with Children
Safety is the top priority when hiking longer routes with kids. While this trail is not extremely dangerous, the narrow ledges and rock scrambles require supervision and clear communication. Stay close to your children during these parts and remind them to stay focused.
It’s a good idea to set a turnaround time before starting. If your family hasn’t reached Double O Arch by a certain hour, plan to turn back to avoid hiking in the dark. Carry a small first aid kit for minor scrapes or insect bites.
Remind kids to stay on the trail and not climb on fragile rock formations. Not only does this help protect the environment, but it also avoids unnecessary injuries.
Make the Journey Fun and Engaging
To keep kids interested during a longer hike, try adding games or small rewards. You can play “I Spy” using desert landmarks or look for interesting rocks and plant life along the way. Some families bring nature journals or cameras so children can document their adventure.
Stop frequently to rest, take photos, and enjoy the views. Navajo Arch and the tunnel-like Pine Tree Arch are perfect places to take a breather before continuing. These natural spots break up the hike and make it feel less tiring for younger travelers.
Turn the hike into a learning experience by talking about the park’s geology, wildlife, or history. Kids are often fascinated by how arches are formed and how long they’ve been around. Sharing this information in simple words helps them connect more with the landscape around them.
Why It’s Worth the Effort
Reaching the end of the trail and seeing the unique structure of Double O Arch—two arches stacked one above the other—is an exciting reward. It feels like a real discovery, especially after hiking for a few miles. You can rest under the arch or explore the area nearby before starting your return journey.
While this isn’t a casual stroll, it’s an unforgettable adventure. For families who enjoy being outdoors and want to go beyond the typical viewpoint trails, this hike is a great opportunity to build confidence, explore the desert, and enjoy quality time together.
If your children aren’t ready for the full hike, you can still enjoy parts of the Devils Garden Trail. The path to Landscape Arch is easier and still very scenic, making it a solid backup plan. That way, even young hikers can enjoy some of the beauty without pushing too far.
Other Kid-Friendly Trails Nearby
If you want to explore more of Arches National Park with children, there are other trails that are shorter and more relaxed. The Sand Dune Arch trail is just 0.3 miles long and fun for little ones because of its soft sand and shady spots. The Windows Section is another great area with short walks to multiple arches and plenty of photo opportunities.
These easier routes are great warm-ups before taking on more challenging hikes like the one to Double O Arch. They also help kids get comfortable with the terrain and conditions of Utah’s desert parks.
When to Visit for a Comfortable Hike
The best times to visit Arches National Park for a family hike are spring and fall. During these seasons, temperatures are milder, which helps prevent heat exhaustion and sunburn. Summer can be extremely hot, with daytime temperatures often over 100°F, which is not ideal for long hikes with children.
Try starting early in the morning to avoid crowds and the hottest part of the day. Morning light also makes for better photos and brings out the red hues of the sandstone. Always check the weather forecast before heading out and avoid hiking during storms or high winds.
Add Adventure to Your Family Trip
Visiting Double O Arch and other remote sections of Arches National Park adds a real sense of adventure to any family trip. It’s not just about reaching the arch, but about the journey—what your kids learn, how they handle the trail, and the way they connect with the outdoors.
With the right preparation, even a longer trail like this one can become a safe and exciting experience for children. You’ll help them grow stronger, more confident, and more curious about the world. Just be sure to pace yourself, keep everyone safe, and enjoy the time together without rushing.
Plan Your Hike with Confidence
To make your trip even smoother, check out resources and real-world trail tips from Unicorn Adventure. Their firsthand experience with trails like this can help you prepare smart, pack well, and hike safely. Whether it’s your first time hiking in Utah or you’re returning for more, having the right information will help your family enjoy every step of the journey to Double O Arch Utah.
