Little Devils Stairs Loop
What to Expect
Safety Advisory
The gorge involves legitimate rock scrambling with significant exposure to falls — wet conditions turn the boulders treacherous, and a slip here means landing on rock, not dirt. Avoid this trail after heavy rain or when ice is present.
Multiple unbrided stream crossings require rock-hopping through ankle- to knee-deep water depending on recent rainfall. Water shoes or gaiters are not optional in spring.
Cell service is nonexistent in the gorge. Let someone know your itinerary — if you twist an ankle in the narrows, you are not calling for help.
Trail Details
Pro Tips
Hike the loop counterclockwise, ascending through the gorge rather than descending — the rock scrambles are far safer going up than sliding down on wet stone, and you finish on the mellow fire road when your legs are shot.
Trekking poles are dead weight in the gorge (you need both hands free for scrambling), but invaluable on the fire road descent. Strap them to your pack for the first half and break them out after you top out.
The family cemetery about two-thirds through the loop is easy to walk past if you're not looking. Watch for a faint spur trail on your left as you descend Keyser Run — it's one of the most atmospheric spots in the park and worth the thirty-second detour.
Photos
NPS
