Page Updated: March 06, 2024
Canyonlands National Park
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Big Spring Canyon / Squaw Flat Canyon - Canyonlands National Park UT
This place is so neat it’ll knock your socks off. Where Bryce Canyon National Park gives of fairytale vibes, Canyonlands National Park is reminiscent of space. Star Trek to be specific. It seems like random crewman 27 should come around the nearest rock with a phaser in his hand; or Spock with his Vulcan Salute.
The slickrock, deep canyons, rock formations and existing rivers all create a one-of-a-kind rugged high desert that covers more than 500 square miles of wilderness that’s sectioned into 4 districts: Island in the Sky, The Maze, The Needles, and The Rivers.
Canyonlands was dubbed a national park in 1964 and expanded to its current size in 1971 with the addition of Horseshoe Canyon.
Canyonlands National Park is naturally divided into 3 sections by the Colorado and Green rivers.
Named an International Dark Sky Park in 2015, Canyonlands was granted Gold-Tier status - a distinction reserved for the darkest of the dark skies.
Canyonlands is one of a few parks allowing 4x4 off-roading within the park boundaries. (permit required)
The Districts
The district of Island in the Sky is located at the top of a large mesa that’s wedged between the Green River to the west and the Colorado River to the east. The mesa rises 1000+ft above the surrounding landscape and its scenic road includes overlooks with breathtaking panoramic views for miles. Climbers can find a variety of routes and need no permit for technical rock climbing, but must have permits for backcountry day-use and overnight travel.
Island in the Sky
The Maze is Canyonland’s most remote district. Hard to access and disconnected, there are no services for miles. Due to the difficulty of roads and trails, it’s advised visitors be self-sufficient and carry self-rescue gear and equipment. Recommended for expert wilderness travelers and requires permit.
The Maze
Needles gets its name from its many Cedar Mesa Sandstone spires jutting into the sky. A web of well-groomed trails weaving among the geological formations are the draw for many hiking enthusiasts. And off-roaders love it for the 50+ miles of rugged 4x4 roads (permit required). Nearby amenities make the The Needles one of the more popular spots within Canyonlands National Park.
The Needles
The Rivers
The Colorado and Green rivers that cup Island in the Sky have each cut deep canyons through the many layers of Cedar Mesa Sandstone and offer visitors the unique perspective of seeing the canyons from the bottom up. Both rivers offer calm water north of the confluence: perfect for canoes and other shallow water craft. South of the merge, whitewater rafters have access to Class 3 to Class 5 rapids for a 14 mile stretch. Permits required for all river trips.
Scenic Drives
UT-211 Canyonlands National Park
UT-211 Canyonlands National Park Rd, located in The Needles District, is 8+ miles of scenic desert landscape from the park’s sign to it’s end at Big Spring Canyon Overlook. The route is easily traveled by normal vehicles and a great choice for those who don’t like to hike. Those who love the thrill of 4x4s will find greater joy in experiencing any of the over 50+ miles of rugged road allocated for off-roading!
Grand View Point Road
Located in Island in the Sky, Grand View Point Road is made spectacular by any of the overlooks located along the 26 mile stretch in the park boundaries to Grand View Point Overlook.
Hiking
Dramatic overlooks, desert landscapes, and cultural features can all be explored by foot via the hundreds of miles of hiking trails across Canyonlands. Cairns (a stack of small rocks) mark the path on popular trails. Backcountry trail blazers should carry items needed for proper guidance such as topographical maps.
Whether one calls them rules, tips, or hacks, hikers should hit the most basic of desert hiking points. Hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, proper footwear, and plenty of water.
NPS Map Canyonlands
Camping
Front-country camping in Island in the Sky: Willow Flat Campground (12 sites) and The Needles Campground Loop A is first come, first served. Both campgrounds come with fire rings, picnic tables, and toilets.
Sites in Needles Campground Loop B require reservations - up to 6 months if advance in peak seasons: mid-March through May and September through October.
Backcountry camping is available for backpackers, 4x4 adventurers, bicycling, and boaters. Permits Required
For current info, news, and updates on all things Canyonlands - including fees, permits, and closures - visit Canyonlands National Park at nps.gov
2021 JUN - Island
Standing at Grand View Point Overlook in Island in the Sky and taking in the “grand view,” I thought - Why does the Grand Canyon get all the love? Check out our 2021 visit!
2021 JUN - Needles
In our pursuit of cramming all of the Mighty 5 into our first ever Utah trip, we spent an amazing day knocking about The Needles district of Canyonlands National Park. Check out our 2021 visit!
