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

Discovering Utah’s Hidden Geological Gems: The Cosmic Ashtray, Devil’s Garden, and Cedar Wash Tour from Torrey

When pondering a trip to Utah’s Southwest, most travelers aim for the iconic National Parks like Zion or Bryce Canyon. But for those craving something a bit more off the beaten path, a guided tour exploring the Cosmic Ashtray, Devil’s Garden, and Cedar Wash Arch offers a chance to see some of the state’s most mesmerizing rock formations with the convenience of transportation and a knowledgeable guide. This tour promises a full day of breathtaking scenery, adventure, and perfect photo opportunities—all within a manageable 7-hour window.

What really appeals to us about this experience are two things: first, the opportunity to witness formations that seem straight out of a sci-fi movie, such as the Cosmic Ashtray, which is fascinatingly surreal. Second, the convenience of having hotel or Airbnb pickup and drop-off included means you can focus entirely on soaking in the sights without worrying about navigation or logistics.

On the flip side, one thing to consider is the physical effort required. The hike to the Cosmic Ashtray is described as strenuous, involving steep terrain and uneven surfaces, so it’s not for everyone. But if you’re physically prepared and eager for a true adventure, this tour offers a unique glimpse into some of Utah’s lesser-known marvels.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want more than just a quick glance at Utah’s landscapes, valuing authentic encounters and stunning photo ops. It’s suited for those with a moderate fitness level and a sense of adventure, keen to explore remote geological wonders in a small, intimate group setting.

Key Points

• Unique Geological Features: See formations like the Cosmic Ashtray and Cedar Wash Arch, which are unlike typical national park sights.
• Accessible Adventure: The tour includes off-road transportation and relatively short hikes, though some can be strenuous.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to four participants, ensuring personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.
• All-Inclusive Convenience: Pickup and drop-off from your accommodation make the day hassle-free.
• Photographer’s Dream: Many of the formations, especially the Cosmic Ashtray and Devils Garden, are great for photography.
• Weather-Dependent: The tour’s success relies on good weather; poor conditions could lead to rescheduling or cancellations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Depth

Starting from Torrey, the tour kicks off with a pickup from your hotel or Airbnb, making it easy to settle in and get ready for a day of exploration. The first stop is the Cosmic Ashtray, a limestone and sandstone marvel that looks as if it belongs in a sci-fi film. Its circular depression, surrounded by vibrant Navajo sandstone, offers an almost otherworldly view that’s perfect for photography. We loved the way the guide emphasized this formation’s wind-evolved features, giving us a deeper appreciation for how such shapes are carved over millions of years.

Reaching the Cosmic Ashtray involves a short but challenging hike. The terrain is steep and unmarked, demanding moderate physical fitness. Many reviews highlight that the walk involves navigating a steep sandstone wall, so proper footwear—supportive hiking shoes—are a must. One traveler pointed out that “the hike to the Cosmic Ashtray involves a strenuous walk up a steep sandstone wall,” but the view at the top is well worth the effort.

Next, the tour moves into Devils Garden, a natural playground filled with striking hoodoos, arches, and balanced rocks. Here, you’ll find no strenuous hikes required—Devils Garden is more accessible and serves as a perfect spot for those who want to marvel at intricate rock formations without much physical exertion. This area boasts some of the most photogenic features, including Metate Arch and Mano Arch, which resemble sculptures crafted by nature. For photographers, this is an ideal location, with whimsical shapes and vivid colors in the orange and cream-colored sandstone.

The highlight of Devils Garden is the variety of formations—each with its own character, making it easy to spend time exploring from different angles. Visitors often mention the area’s photogenic appeal, with one reviewer noting that “the whimsical shapes of the hoodoos make Devils Garden a favorite spot for photographers of all skill levels.”

Finally, your guide will lead you on a moderate walk to Cedar Wash Arch, a natural sandstone arch that feels secluded and serene. Unlike the more famous arches in Utah, Cedar Wash Arch offers a sense of solitude, framed by rugged terrain and dotted with juniper and pinyon pines. The hike is about ½ mile round-trip and involves uneven terrain—so good shoes are essential. This part of the trip is especially appreciated by those seeking a quieter, less crowded natural setting.

Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy the company of a live guide speaking English, Russian, or Italian, making the experience accessible for international visitors. The small group size enhances the relaxed atmosphere, allowing for plenty of opportunities to ask questions and take photos.

Analyzing the Value: Is it Worth the Price?

At $800 per person, this tour isn’t cheap, but it does pack in a lot of value. The cost covers transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and the convenience of hotel or Airbnb pickup and drop-off—significant benefits if you’re unfamiliar with the area or prefer a curated experience. For travelers who prioritize comfort and authentic discoveries over self-driving, this tour offers a good balance of adventure and ease.

Considering the unique sights, the relatively short hikes, and the small group size, the experience offers a chance to see geological features that are hard to access on your own. The guided aspect means you’ll learn about the formations’ formation processes and geological history, enriching your understanding of the landscape.

Many reviews emphasize the “stunning views” and the “surreal landscape,” confirming that these formations are well worth the trip. The fact that the Cosmic Ashtray is described as a favorite among adventurous hikers and photographers underscores its appeal, especially during sunrise or sunset when the light enhances the vivid colors.

The Practical Details

The tour lasts about 7 hours, making it a manageable day trip from Torrey, Boulder, or Escalante. Pickup locations are straightforward: the Escalante Visitor Center (noted by the big lizard statue) or Anasazi State Park in Boulder, with pickup times depending on your location.

Since the terrain can be uneven and hiking involves some physical effort, proper footwear and sunscreen are essential. Bring water, as Utah’s desert climate can be dry and hot. The tour is not suitable for children under 8, pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or older travelers over 65, mainly due to the strenuous parts of the hike.

Weather plays a crucial role—bad weather could cause rescheduling or cancellation, so flexibility is advised. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds to the peace of mind.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is a fantastic choice for travelers eager for a deeper, more adventurous look into Utah’s geological wonders. It suits those who appreciate natural beauty, are comfortable with some physical activity, and want a guided experience that removes the hassle of navigation. Photography enthusiasts will find plenty of stunning scenes to capture, especially at the Cosmic Ashtray and Devils Garden.

If you’re someone who enjoys exploring remote landscapes, valuing intimate group sizes, and soaking in extraordinary views, this tour will deliver. It offers a blend of adventure, education, and scenery you won’t find in every Utah tour package.

However, if you prefer leisurely walks or have mobility constraints, it’s worth considering the strenuous hike involved in reaching the Cosmic Ashtray. For those prepared for a bit of effort, the rewards are truly remarkable.

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FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 8 due to the strenuous hike involved.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and water are essential. Be prepared for uneven terrain and sunny conditions.

How long is the hike to the Cosmic Ashtray?
The hike involves a steep, challenging climb up sandstone, roughly short but physically demanding.

Are the stops accessible?
Devils Garden is more accessible and requires no strenuous hikes, making it suitable for most visitors.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent and may be rescheduled or canceled in case of bad weather. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from various locations in Torrey, Boulder, and Escalante.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot without payment upfront, offering flexibility in planning your trip.

In short, the Cosmic Ashtray, Devil’s Garden, and Cedar Wash Arch tour offers a compelling blend of unique sights, manageable hikes, and small-group intimacy. It’s a fantastic way to add some out-of-the-ordinary Utah landscapes to your itinerary—and for the right traveler, it’s a day packed with awe-inspiring views and memorable moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: