Arches National Park

Partition Arch Spur

moderate PhotographersQuick DetourArch Collectors
0.4 mi Distance
Varies Estimated Time
roundtrip Trail Type

What to Expect

This quick detour off the Devils Garden trail packs a disproportionate reward for its tiny distance. You'll scramble over slickrock and navigate a short but steep section that earns the moderate rating — it's not long, but it demands hands and feet in a couple of spots. The trail threads through narrow fins of Entrada sandstone before delivering you to Partition Arch, a window carved clean through a rock wall that perfectly frames the desert beyond. Stand inside the arch and you're looking out at a postcard of the La Sal Mountains floating above red rock. Unlike the crowded spectacle at Delicate Arch, you might have this one entirely to yourself. Perfect for hikers who want a quick scramble with a genuine payoff and don't mind a little route-finding.
PhotographersQuick DetourArch CollectorsCouplesSolitude Seekers

Safety Advisory

The short scramble section involves exposed slickrock that becomes dangerously slippery when wet or icy — skip this spur if there's been recent rain or if temperatures have been dropping below freezing overnight.

There are unprotected drop-offs near the arch itself. Keep children close and watch your footing, especially if you're backing up to frame a photo.

Trail Details

Distance 0.4 miles round-trip
Difficulty moderate
Estimated Time Varies
Trail Type roundtrip
Pets Not allowed
Season Year-round
Trailhead Partition Arch Spur

Pro Tips

Trail Tip

Partition Arch sits about 2.5 miles into the Devils Garden trail — plan it as a stop on your way to or from Double O Arch rather than as a standalone hike, since the trailhead access is the same.

Trail Tip

The spur junction is easy to miss if you're focused on the main trail. Watch for a signed fork on the right side shortly after passing Navajo Arch — the detour adds maybe 15 minutes round trip.

Trail Tip

Bring a wide-angle lens and position yourself inside the arch looking outward. Late afternoon light turns the interior walls orange and the La Sal Mountains go blue-purple in the distance — it's one of the most naturally composed shots in the park.

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1 campgrounds, 19 trails, 1.5M annual visitors

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