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

This guided tour from Torrey offers a window into some of Utah’s most captivating geological features. If you’re someone who loves dramatic landscapes, quirky rock formations, and a touch of adventure, this 7-hour outing might be just what you’re after.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to see the Cosmic Ashtray, a sandstone formation that looks straight out of a sci-fi movie, and to explore the colorful Devil’s Garden, filled with hoodoos, arches, and whimsical shapes. Second, the opportunity to hike to the Cedar Wash Arch, an elegant natural arch carved into golden cliffs, offering a peaceful, less-visited spot for photos and solitude.

Of course, one thing to consider is that the hike to the Cosmic Ashtray involves a steep, somewhat challenging walk. It’s not suitable for everyone, especially those with mobility issues or very young children. Still, for active travelers craving authentic scenery and a touch of off-road adventure, it hits the mark.

This tour is best suited for those with a moderate fitness level, eager to see iconic Utah landscapes, and happy to share a small-group experience that emphasizes personalized attention. If you want a comprehensive, scenic hike with expert guidance, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Stunning rock formations like the Cosmic Ashtray and Devils Garden showcase Utah’s geological diversity.
• The tour includes off-road driving through breathtaking landscapes, making it a true adventure.
• Moderate hiking is involved, particularly to the Cosmic Ashtray, so some physical activity is expected.
• Small group size (limited to 4 participants) ensures a more intimate, tailored experience.
• Hotel or Airbnb pickup and drop-off make planning easier and hassle-free.
• The tour is suitable for travelers aged 8 and up, but not recommended for pregnant women or those with mobility issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Cosmic Ashtray: A Natural Sculptural Masterpiece

We loved the way the Cosmic Ashtray’s massive, circular sandstone depression immediately catches your eye. It’s often called the Cosmic Navel or Island in the Sky, and when you see it from above, the shape definitely resembles an ashtray with a solitary “island” in the middle. The formation’s orange-red hues, contrasted against the clear blue sky, create a dramatic scene.

Getting there involves about a short but somewhat strenuous hike from the Egypt Trailhead. The trail’s terrain is unmarked and uneven, requiring good shoes and a bit of scrambling up a steep sandstone wall. It’s a walk that demands a moderate fitness level but offers a sense of achievement once you arrive.

Many reviewers mention that the view is worth the effort: “The surreal landscape and the vivid colors make this a photographer’s dream,” one said. Just be prepared; the terrain can be tricky, and wind erosion has carved this formation over millions of years, giving it a wonderfully rugged look.

Devil’s Garden: A Playground of Rock Art

Next up is Devil’s Garden, an area described as “nature’s playground” due to its array of hoodoos, arches, and whimsical rock shapes. It’s a lot more accessible than the Cosmic Ashtray, with most features visible from easy walking paths.

Here, you’ll find Metate Arch and Mano Arch, natural structures that look like they belong in a sci-fi movie. The vibrant orange and cream-colored sandstone are sculpted over eons by wind and water, creating a landscape that’s colorful and full of character.

Many visitors appreciate that Devils Garden doesn’t require strenuous hiking; instead, it’s an area to marvel at the whimsical formations from the comfort of a walking trail, making it a hit for families and less-active hikers alike.

Cedar Wash Arch: The Hidden Gem

After the more intense exploration, the tour visits Cedar Wash Arch, a peaceful natural arch carved into golden cliffs. Unlike some of Utah’s more famous arches, Cedar Wash Arch offers a sense of solitude away from crowds. The moderately difficult walk of about half a mile leads to the arch, which spans above a scenic desert setting dotted with junipers and pinyon pines.

Travelers have remarked that this part of the tour provides a serene, almost meditative experience. It’s a perfect spot for photos or just soaking in the landscape’s tranquility.

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Off-Road Adventure and Small Group Comfort

The tour’s off-road transportation is a highlight—covering rougher terrain that would be impossible in a standard vehicle. The small group size (limited to four participants) ensures personalized attention, making it easier to ask questions and get detailed explanations from your guide.

The hotel or Airbnb pickup and drop-off service simplifies logistics. For those staying in places like Escalante, Boulder, or Torrey, the pickup location at the Escalante Visitor Center (complete with a lizard statue) or the Anasazi State Park parking lot is convenient.

Practical Details and Value

At $800 per person, this tour isn’t cheap, but it packages transportation, guides, and access to remote sites that are hard to reach on your own. For travelers who value expert guidance, safety in off-road conditions, and the chance to see Utah’s lesser-known but equally stunning formations, it’s a strong value.

The 7-hour duration balances a full day’s worth of scenery and activity without feeling rushed. Included are all logistics, meaning you can focus on the scenery rather than navigation or planning.

What You Should Know Before Booking

• The hike to the Cosmic Ashtray involves a steep, challenging walk; make sure you’re comfortable with uneven terrain and some scrambling.
• Proper footwear is essential — sturdy hiking shoes will make a big difference.
• The terrain can be rough and uneven throughout the tour, so pack sunscreen, water, and comfortable shoes.
• The tour is weather-dependent; bad weather could lead to rescheduling or cancellation.
• It’s not suited for children under 8, pregnant women, or travelers with mobility issues.
• The small group size (max 4) means a more intimate experience but also requires early booking, especially during peak seasons.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to see some of Utah’s most photogenic, otherworldly landscapes with minimal hassle. It’s also great for those who enjoy a moderate physical challenge—the walk to Cosmic Ashtray is not for the faint of heart, but the views make it worthwhile.

Families with older, active children may also find this a rewarding day. However, if you’re looking for a more leisurely sightseeing trip or have mobility concerns, this might not be the best fit.

Final Thoughts: Is it Worth It?

For travelers craving authentic adventure and breathtaking scenery, this tour offers a compelling package. The chance to see rare geological formations like the Cosmic Ashtray and the whimsical Devil’s Garden in a small-group setting makes it stand out. The off-road transport and guided expertise add safety and convenience, helping you focus on enjoying the views and taking photos.

While the price might seem high, the experience provides access to remote, stunning landscapes that are difficult to reach alone. If you’re prepared for some moderate hiking and love nature’s quirky artistry in rock, this tour offers genuine value.

This experience suits active, curious travelers eager to explore Utah’s geological wonders beyond the standard national park visits. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a dedicated photographer, you’ll leave with memorable images and stories to tell.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not recommended for children under 8 years old due to the demanding nature of the hike to the Cosmic Ashtray and uneven terrain.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and water. It’s important to be prepared for outdoor conditions and uneven surfaces.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Flexibility is available if your plans are uncertain.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, the terrain and hikes are uneven and involve some scrambling, making it unsuitable for those with mobility impairments.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers off-road transportation, a guided tour, and hotel or Airbnb pickup and drop-off.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, providing a full day of exploring Utah’s stunning landscapes.

Are the guides available in other languages?
Yes, guides speak English, Russian, and Italian, ensuring a comfortable experience for diverse travelers.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-rounded, scenic adventure into some of Utah’s most striking geological features. It balances accessible exploration with enough challenge to make the journey rewarding. If breathtaking views, quirky rock formations, and small-group attention appeal to you, this trip from Torrey is worth considering. It’s a chance to see Utah’s less-visited yet equally spectacular side, away from the crowds and into the wild, sculpted beauty of the desert.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby