Devil's Den Trail – Devils Den Sp

Distance: 1.5 miles Elevation Gain: 300 ft Difficulty: Moderate Type: Loop Surface: dirt/rock Activity: Hiking Best Season: Year-round Typical Time: 1–1.5 hours Fee: $5/vehicle Dogs: Yes, on leash Permit: No

The Devil's Den Trail explores the dramatic sandstone crevices and cave passages that give Devil's Den State Park its name and reputation as one of the most unique destinations in the Ozarks. The park was developed during the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, whose skilled stonemason work is evident throughout in the beautifully crafted stone steps, bridges, and retaining walls that integrate seamlessly with the natural rock formations. The CCC structures at Devil's Den are considered among the finest examples of rustic park architecture in the National Park Service style in the entire country.

The trail navigates a maze of sandstone crevices and boulders, with passages that require ducking, scrambling, and careful footing in places. The crevices maintain cool temperatures even in summer, making this a refreshing hike on hot Arkansas days. Devil's Den itself is a large cave-like crevice with a distinctive leering rock overhang that resembles a demonic face from certain angles. Lee Creek flows through the park valley below and can be seen from elevated sections of the trail. The dense Ozark hardwood forest provides complete canopy cover and spectacular fall foliage color.