37 North Guides Overnight Beginner Backpacking Through Devil’s Den State Park

That backpack gathering dust in the garage? It’s been waiting for this. 37 North Expeditions is heading out for a night on the Butterfield Trail at Devil’s Den State Park: about 15 miles, two days, and one sky full of stars once the day-trippers head home.

THE DEETS

📆 Saturday, November 7, 2026 – Sunday, November 8, 2026
🕑 6:00 AM Saturday to 7:00 AM Sunday
📍 37 North Expeditions, 3803 NW Wishing Spring Road, Bentonville
💵 $249
🎟️ Book at 37 North Expeditions

Source: 37 North Expeditions

Bluffs, Creeks and Ridge-Top Views on the Butterfield Trail

The route winds through forested valleys and across creeks, past waterfalls, rocky bluffs and limestone outcrops, with some of the area’s natural and historic features along the way. Climb high enough and the ridge tops pay you back with views.

You’ll earn them. The hike has several sustained climbs and descents, rocky footing, and tread that narrows in places. 37 North rates it moderate, for intermediate hikers or adventurous beginners. It’s a real challenge, but nothing technical. Think “my legs know I did something,” not “my legs have filed a complaint.”

Source: 37 North Expeditions

Master Guides Carry the Know-How

37 North’s Master Guides handle the logistics and teach you the backcountry basics as you go. They’ll show you how to load your pack and carry extra supplies, help you set up camp if you want a hand, and cook backcountry meals for the whole crew.

Here’s how the gear splits:

• 37 North brings – tents, sleeping pads, water, and every meal
• You bring – your own sleeping bag, backpack, and personal items

Your Two Days, Trailhead to Trailhead

• Gear check at Wishing Springs – orientation with the group, then everyone loads up for Devil’s Den
• Final adjustments at the trailhead – cinch the straps, then set off on the Butterfield Trail
• Lunch and breaks on the move – fuel stops built into the hike
• Camp at a designated backcountry site – tents go up, dinner follows
• Breakfast and break camp – then finish the loop through more rock features and scenic terrain, back at the trailhead by early afternoon

Source: 37 North Expeditions

The night is the payoff. You get the park after the crowds clear out, when the forest settles down and the stars come out. Starry-eyed is the only acceptable way to fall asleep out here.

Bring a Buddy (Seriously)

The trip needs at least four participants to run, so signing up with a friend helps get the group to the number. Got someone who keeps saying they’ll “get into backpacking one of these days”? This is the day.

See you there, NWA.