Torrey: Cosmic Ashtray, Devil's Garden, and Cedar Wash Tour

Embark on a guided off-road adventure to explore the Grand-Staircase Escalante National Monument.

Start your day with a pickup from your hotel or Airbnb in Torrey, Boulder, or Escalante. From there, it's all about the thrill as you navigate through stunning landscapes to your first stop: the Cosmic Ashtray. Trust your guide to lead you on a relatively short hike to the Cosmic Ashtray.

The Cosmic Ashtray, also known as the Cosmic Navel or Island in the Sky, is a unique sandstone geological formation located in the Escalante region of southern Utah. It features a massive, circular depression surrounded by vibrant orange-red Navajo sandstone.

At its center lies an isolated "island" of rock, giving the impression of an ashtray-like shape when viewed from above. This natural wonder was formed by wind erosion over millions of years, with swirling sand acting as a natural sculptor.

The Cosmic Ashtray is remote and requires a challenging hike or navigation through unmarked terrain, typically from the Egypt Trailhead. Its surreal landscape makes it a favorite among photographers and adventurous hikers, especially during sunrise or sunset when the colors of the rock formations are at their most vivid.

Next up, venture into Devil's Garden Outstanding Natural Area, where you can witness nature's artistry at its finest. Marvel at the unique rock formations that look like they belong in a sci-fi movie.

Devil's Garden is a stunning natural playground filled with unique rock formations, including towering hoodoos, natural arches, and balanced rocks. The area is characterized by vibrant orange and cream-colored sandstone, sculpted over millions of years by wind and water erosion.

Some of the most notable features include Metate Arch, a delicate and photogenic natural arch, and Mano Arch, a smaller yet equally captivating formation. The whimsical shapes of the hoodoos make Devil's Garden a favorite spot for photographers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a more accessible area to explore.

A visit to Devil's Garden doesn't require any hiking or strenuous activities, making it an accessible and enjoyable destination for everyone. This natural wonder is a perfect paradise for photographers of all skill levels, offering a stunning array of hoodoos, arches, and balanced rocks to capture from every angle.

Afterward, visit Cedar Wash Arch, a stunning natural arch carved into the golden sandstone cliffs of the region. Unlike some of the more famous arches in Utah, Cedar Wash Arch feels tucked away and serene, offering visitors a sense of solitude.

The arch spans gracefully above a scenic desert landscape, framed by rugged terrain and dotted with juniper and pinyon pines. The hike to Cedar Wash Arch is moderately difficult, requiring about 1/2 miles of walking round-trip. While the trail itself is not particularly steep, the terrain is uneven.

After soaking in all the beauty and adventure, be whisked back to your hotel or Airbnb.