Canyonlands National Park can be found in southeastern Utah, in proximity to Moab and Arches National Park, and is an enchanting place for lovers of the outdoors.
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Canyonlands National Park is 337,598 acres and has three districts. These districts are The Maze, Needles, and Island in the Sky.
Each district has its own distinct features and opportunities for recreation. The park’s incredible geological formations such as towering mesas, deep canyons, and natural arches were sculpted over millions of years of erosion by the Colorado and Green Rivers.
Take advantage of this amazing park! Here are the best things to do while you are there.
Mesa Arch Trail
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A rewarding hike on the Island in the Sky district is the Mesa Arch Trail. This simple 0.5-mile trail takes you to a famous natural arch located at the cliff’s edge.
Through the arch photographers can capture stunning images of the canyon at any time of day. It’s especially good for catching sunrise shots.
Grand View Point Trail
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While visiting Canyonlands, you won’t want to miss the opportunity for Grand View Point Trail. This 2-mile round trip trail takes you for views of a towering cliff and sweeping views of the expansive canyonlands.
This hike is rated easy, but hikers still need to be careful since there are no guardrails on the trail.
Syncline Loop Trail
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The Syncline Loop Trail is a very difficult hike that spans a distance of 8.3 miles. Located in the Island in the Sky district, this particular trail takes hikers through the tough landscape in the Upheaval Dome which is a bland and oddly unique feature in the Canyonlands.
Beautiful formations can be seen as you walk along the path. This trail is less busy so you can enjoy the peace and quiet. It is important to come prepared with water and take caution as this is one of the most challenging trails in the park, and the park’s rescues happen most often on this trail.
Upheaval Dome Trail
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The Upheaval Dome Trail is 1.7 miles long and takes you to the edge of large impact crater. The origin of the crater is still hotly debated and draws many geology fans.
The views of the landscape and geological features are fantastic from this steep, short trail.
Island in the Sky Scenic Drive
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The Island in the Sky Scenic Drive has incredible views at many overlooks. The 34 mile long paved road goes across the tops of the mesas.
You will be able to see the amazing size of the canyons, the light and dark play along the canyon walls and the animals that inhabit the area. The Grand View Point Overlook provides an incredible vantage point.
White Rim Road
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If you are up for an adventure, think about taking White Rim Road. This 100 mile long road is very difficult, but it follows the White Rim Sandstone formation.
Beautiful views of the canyons, buttes, and mesas line the road. For overnight camping, a high-clearance four-wheel drive vehicle and permit are required.
Green River Overlook
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If you want to take in the sunset from the Island In The Sky district, the Green River Overlook is the best spot to view the Green River.
When the sun sets, the canyons and rivers glow with warmth and surreal beauty. Take a shot with your camera or simply soak it in.
Shafer Canyon Overlook
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For an incredible sunrise experience visit Shafer Canyon Overlook. The far away mesas and canyons awake and the landscape turns into a golden glory.
At Shafer Canyon Overlook, you will have a great view for this incredible sight.
Buck Canyon Overlook
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Buck Canyon Overlook, located in the Needles District, gives you stunning views of the red rock landscapes.
Watching the rocks light up in different colors and the sun dip below the horizon is magical. Enjoy the show and clear your mind.
River Rafting and Kayaking
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There are great possibilities for river rafting and kayaking with the Green River and Colorado River that flow through Canyonlands.
Start your multi-day adventure where you will navigate through difficult rapids and experience the beautiful canyons.
Different levels of skill and different lengths of time are catered for guided trips by a number of outfitters.
Gaze at The Stars
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Canyonlands National Park is perfect for stargazing because of its location in the remote Utah desert and the limited light pollution. After the sun goes down and the stars come out, the beauty of the night sky is revealed.
Pack a blanket, recline, and enjoy the awesome wonders of the universe.
Watch the Wildlife – From a Distance!
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Canyonlands has a wide variety of wildlife. Watch for bighorn sheep, mule deer, coyotes, and various species of birds.
Wildlife viewing is even more exciting with binoculars. You can see the animals as they live and move around in their habitat. Keep in mind not to get too close to the wildlife in the national parks! If you can take a selfie with a wild animal, you are WAY too close! wildlife in a national park
Take Stunning Photos
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Canyonlands National Park is an exceptional destination park for photographers. The eastern part of the park has spectacular sunrises while the western side of the park has incredible sunsets! In addition to the beautiful sunsets and sunrises, the park has a plethora of areas with unique rock formations, and each formation is great for taking photographs, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Get creative! Use your imagination and emotional response! Play with different compositions and the effects of light and shadow.
Camping and Overnight Stays
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To see the true beauty of Canyonlands, you should consider overnight camping in the park. There is one campground, Willow Flat, in Island in the Sky. In the Needles district, there is one other campground and three additional group camping sites.
Campsite fees are reasonable at $15–20 per site. However, permits are required for all overnight trips.
Hear the calming sounds of the wilderness, see countless stars from your campsite and enjoy magnificent canyons under the stars.
Visitor Centers and Museums
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Visitor centers and museums at Canyonlands National Park offer great interpretive services and provide details on the park’s geology, history, and ecosystems.
Exploring these centers will allow you to enrich your appreciation for the park’s natural wonders and cultural importance.
Your overall experience will be enhanced by the exhibits, displays, and staff.
Gear Up for Adrenaline-Pumping Rock Climbing
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Canyonlands National Park is a great place for rock climbers. Most climbers are attracted to the Sandstone Towers at Island in the Sky and the White Rim Road.
Some routes may be closed on occasion for climbing to protect the habitats of wildlife; therefore, it’s important to check the park’s website for the most current information.
Summer days can become extremely hot and changeable weather can lead to quick thunderstorms summer visitors should be aware of these risks.
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