Canyonlands National Park, located in southeastern Utah, is a vast wilderness of canyons, mesas, and buttes carved by the Colorado River and its tributaries. For first-time visitors, this park offers a spectacular array of landscapes and outdoor adventures that capture the essence of the American Southwest. Whether you're seeking breathtaking viewpoints, challenging hikes, or serene moments in nature, Canyonlands is a playground for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Here’s what you should do on your first visit to this stunning park.
Staring out at Island in the Sky in Canyonlands National Park. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Why You Should Visit
Canyonlands National Park is a treasure trove of geological wonders, offering an unparalleled experience of rugged terrain and expansive vistas. The park is divided into four districts—Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze, and the rivers—and each offers a unique perspective on its striking landscapes. With its accessible viewpoints, diverse hiking trails, and opportunities for exploration, Canyonlands provides a comprehensive introduction to the diverse beauty of the Colorado Plateau. For adventurers, the park offers a range of activities from challenging off-road trails to serene river floats.
12 Things You Should Do
1) Visit Mesa Arch
Mesa Arch is one of Canyonlands' most iconic landmarks, renowned for its stunning sunrise views. This short, 0.5-mile round-trip hike leads to an arch that frames the dramatic canyon landscape, offering a perfect photo opportunity as the morning light illuminates the arch and surrounding scenery.
Highlights:
Iconic View: Capture the arch framing the canyon below with sunrise lighting.
Short Hike: A quick and accessible trail for all levels.
Best Light: Sunrise is the optimal time for vibrant colors and dramatic shadows.
Photogenic Spot: Ideal for capturing iconic shots of Canyonlands.
2) Explore Island in the Sky
The Island in the Sky district provides panoramic views of the park’s vast canyons and rock formations. Accessible via a scenic drive, this area features several overlooks and short trails that offer stunning vistas of the Colorado River and surrounding terrain.
Highlights:
Scenic Drive: Enjoy a drive with multiple overlooks showcasing expansive views.
Accessible Trails: Short hikes to viewpoints like Grand View Point and Green River Overlook.
Diverse Vistas: See the dramatic contrast of canyons and plateaus.
Family-Friendly: Easy access to spectacular views suitable for all visitors.
3) Hike to the Needles District
The Needles District is known for its colorful rock spires and diverse hiking opportunities. Trails like the Chesler Park Loop offer a combination of rock formations, canyon views, and unique geological features. This area provides a more rugged and immersive hiking experience compared to Island in the Sky.
Highlights:
Rock Formations: See the park’s distinctive spires and formations up close.
Challenging Trails: Enjoy trails with varying difficulty levels.
Scenic Beauty: Experience the park’s diverse and vibrant landscape.
Advanced Hikes: Suitable for those looking for a more strenuous adventure.
4) Discover the Maze District
The Maze District is the most remote part of Canyonlands and offers a true wilderness experience. Known for its maze-like canyons and challenging off-road trails, it’s ideal for experienced adventurers seeking solitude and rugged terrain. Accessing The Maze requires careful planning and is best suited for those with 4WD vehicles or guided tours.
Highlights:
Remote Adventure: Explore a less-visited and rugged part of the park.
Challenging Terrain: Ideal for off-road enthusiasts and experienced explorers.
Isolation: Enjoy the solitude of this remote district.
Permits Required: Plan ahead for permits and access.
5) Float the Colorado River
Floating the Colorado River provides a different perspective on the park’s stunning landscape. Guided rafting trips offer a chance to experience the river’s dramatic canyons and enjoy a relaxing float through the heart of the park. This activity is a great way to see Canyonlands from a unique vantage point.
Highlights:
Unique Perspective: See the park’s landscape from the water.
Guided Trips: Access to guided tours for a safe and informative experience.
Relaxing Float: Enjoy a peaceful and scenic river journey.
Wildlife Viewing: Spot wildlife along the riverbanks.
6) Hike the Syncline Loop
The Syncline Loop is a challenging hike that traverses rugged terrain and offers impressive views of the surrounding canyons. This 8-mile loop trail provides a more strenuous and rewarding experience, showcasing the park’s varied geological features and panoramic vistas.
Highlights:
Strenuous Hike: A demanding trail for experienced hikers.
Scenic Vistas: Enjoy expansive views of canyons and rock formations.
Physical Challenge: Ideal for those seeking a more intense hiking experience.
Remote Beauty: Experience the park’s less-traveled landscapes.
7) Visit the Upheaval Dome
Upheaval Dome is a unique geological formation with a mysterious origin. This area features a crater-like structure that scientists believe may have been formed by an ancient impact or geological processes. The short hike to the viewpoint offers fascinating insights into the park’s geology and impressive views of the dome.
Highlights:
Geological Wonder: Explore a unique and intriguing formation.
Short Hike: A manageable trail with informative viewpoints.
Scientific Interest: Learn about the dome’s possible origins.
Dramatic Views: Enjoy views of the crater and surrounding landscape.
8) Explore the Needles Overlook
The Needles Overlook provides stunning panoramic views of the Needles District and beyond. This easily accessible viewpoint offers a chance to appreciate the park’s diverse landscapes and the expansive beauty of the Colorado Plateau.
Highlights:
Panoramic Views: Enjoy sweeping vistas of the Needles District.
Accessible Viewpoint: Easy access with minimal hiking required.
Scenic Beauty: Ideal for photography and appreciating the park’s grandeur.
Relaxed Experience: Perfect for a brief stop with impressive views.
9) Hike the Devil's Kitchen
The Devil's Kitchen trail offers a fascinating exploration of colorful rock formations and unique geological features. This 3-mile round-trip hike is relatively moderate and leads you through a series of rock formations resembling a "kitchen" of natural wonders.
Highlights:
Colorful Formations: See striking rock colors and unique shapes.
Moderate Hike: A manageable trail with interesting geological features.
Photogenic Scenery: Great for capturing vibrant rock formations.
Family-Friendly: Suitable for visitors of varying hiking abilities.
10) Take a Scenic Drive on the Shafer Trail
The Shafer Trail is a historic and scenic drive that offers incredible views of the canyon landscape. This 4WD road provides access to some of the park’s more remote areas and offers a thrilling drive with spectacular vistas.
Highlights:
Scenic Drive: Enjoy a rugged drive with stunning canyon views.
4WD Required: Suitable for vehicles with off-road capability.
Historic Route: Experience a road with historical significance.
Remote Access: Provides access to less-visited park areas.
11) Hike the Druid Arch Trail
The Druid Arch Trail is a moderately difficult hike that leads to a dramatic arch formation. This 11-mile round-trip trail offers a rewarding experience with striking views and a sense of adventure as you approach the arch.
Highlights:
Dramatic Arch: See a stunning and less-visited arch formation.
Moderate to Difficult: A more challenging hike with great rewards.
Scenic Views: Enjoy impressive vistas along the trail.
Adventurous Hike: Ideal for those seeking a longer and more rewarding hike.
12) Visit the Island in the Sky Visitor Center
The Visitor Center at Island in the Sky provides valuable information about the park’s geology, history, and trails. It’s an excellent starting point for first-time visitors to get oriented and plan their visit.
Highlights:
Informative Exhibits: Learn about the park’s geology and history.
Maps and Guidance: Obtain maps and current trail information.
Park Updates: Get updates on trail conditions and alerts.
Ranger Advice: Speak with park rangers for personalized recommendations.
Checking the cliff height, just making sure it is really really high. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Canyonlands National Park offers an incredible range of experiences for first-time visitors, from iconic viewpoints and challenging hikes to serene river floats and unique geological formations. With its diverse landscapes and abundant outdoor activities, the park provides a comprehensive introduction to the beauty of the Colorado Plateau. Embrace the park’s natural wonders, explore its varied terrains, and make your first visit to Canyonlands an unforgettable adventure.