Visiting Canyonlands National Park: The Expert Travel Guide

Article Summary: Things to Do in Canyonlands National Park, Canyonlands National Park in Winter, What is Canyonlands National Park Known For, Best Time to Visit Canyonlands National Park, Visiting Canyonlands National Park

Canyonlands National Park, Utah is one of the most unique in the National Park Service. It encompasses three districts (The Needles, Island in the Sky, and The Maze) that are incredibly diverse and distinctive from one another.

There are remote places where you won’t see another human for days. Alternatively, there are places closer to Moab, Utah where you can’t escape the crowds.

Either way, Canyonlands National Park offers something for everyone, from adventurous backpackers to RVers looking for a beautiful view.

Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Canyonlands National Park, including maps, hiking trails, camping, lodging, and more things to do.

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Canyonlands National Park Map

Click the image above to enlarge and download the Canyonlands National Park map. The map includes The Needles, The Maze, and Island in the Sky.

Horseshoe Canyon (managed by the BLM) and Dead Horse Point State Park are also featured, but not in as much detail. For more maps, including an interactive map, visit the official website of Canyonlands.

Fun Facts About Canyonlands National Park

• The unique landscape that is Canyonlands National Park, Utah was primarily formed by the Colorado River and the Green River.
• According to Edward Abbey, the author who is known for writing about and visiting Canyonlands National Park countless times, this park is “the most weird, wonderful, magical place on earth—there is nothing else like it anywhere.”
• Close to one million people visit Canyonlands annually. Its close proximity to Arches National Park and Moab makes it fairly easy to get to. However, there are also very remote locations within the park.
• Around 75% of the park’s visitors are concentrated in the Island in the Sky district. To avoid crowds when visiting Canyonlands National Park, head for The Needles or The Maze. Continue reading for more information about the three districts in the park.

Why is Canyonlands a National Park?

The foundation document behind Canyonlands National Park states:

“The purpose of Canyonlands National Park is to preserve striking geologic landscapes and associated ecosystems in an area encompassing the confluence of the Green and Colorado rivers possessing superlative scenic, scientific, and cultural features for the inspiration, benefit, and use of the public.”

Best Time to Visit Canyonlands National Park

Canyonlands National Park Weather

As with any location in the Utah desert, be prepared for extreme temperatures in either direction.

While the elevation isn’t as high in Canyonlands as it is in parks like Bryce Canyon or Capitol Reef, temperatures still cool down quickly as soon as the sun goes down.

Make sure you’re prepared by packing lots of layers (more on that later), drinking a ton of water, and applying sunscreen (even in winter!).

Visiting Canyonlands National Park in Winter

Winter is a great time for visiting Canyonlands National Park if you’re hoping to avoid crowds. While services in The Needles are next-to-none and The Maze is nearly inaccessible, the Island in the Sky District is pleasantly quiet.

Expect temperatures to range from 0 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit. While significant snowstorms don’t happen frequently, they can occur. Due to the remote desert location, a small snowfall can cause some trails and roads to close. Be aware of icy conditions.

The Island in the Sky District will offer more services than the other two sections of the park. For more information on visiting in winter, visit the Canyonlands website.

Visiting Canyonlands National Park in Summer

Like nearly everywhere else in the state, summers are extremely hot. Temperatures often rise above 100 degrees Fahrenheit, making water vitally important.

Furthermore, violent summer storms can cause flash floods. Be sure to prepare for the heat by staying hydrated and applying sunscreen. It’s also recommended that you familiarize yourself with locations prone to flash flooding and avoid these areas if rain is expected.

Visiting Canyonlands National Park in Spring, or Fall

In Canyonlands National Park, the busiest times to visit are April, May, September, and October. This shoulder season brings milder temperatures to the Canyonlands area.

It’s also one of the best times to visit, so you should be prepared for crowds. You’re not the only one trying to enjoy the more temperate weather!

Again, be sure to drink plenty of water while visiting Canyonlands National Park.

Getting There and Getting Around

The closest airports to Canyonlands National Park are in Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, and Denver. I recommend using Skyscanner for purchasing the least expensive tickets and getting the best deals. From there, you can rent a car or join a tour. There aren’t any shuttles running here like you’ll find in Zion National Park.

The Island in the Sky district is very close to Moab, a major hub for outdoors folk with plenty of things to do. The Needles are a bit farther away, and a day trip isn’t suitable for most.

Plan on camping if you’d like to visit. The same goes for The Maze, the most remote district of the park that less than 2% of visitors ever see. Most people access this section via one of the two rivers.

Canyonlands National Park Hours

Technically speaking, Canyonlands National Park in Utah never closes. The park itself is open 24/7. However, visitor centers do close. Check the official website for the most updated hours of operation.

How Much Does Canyonlands National Park Cost?

The Canyonlands National Park entrance fee is $30 per vehicle, $25 per motorcycle, or $15 per person (with no car).

There is also an annual pass for the national parks in Southeast Utah, including Canyonlands and Arches National Parks as well as Natural Bridges and Hovenweep National Monuments. This pass costs $55 and admits the entire vehicle or four individuals (including the passholder).

America the Beautiful Passes

If you’re visiting other national parks in the area, the smartest thing to do is purchase an America the Beautiful Pass. Annual passes cost $80 and will admit everyone in the vehicle at most national parks around the country.

If you’re currently serving in the United States military, have volunteered for a national park, are in fourth grade, or have a permanent disability, you may be eligible for one of the free passes issued by the National Park Service.

Lastly, there is an annual pass for seniors 62 and older for $20. Seniors are also able to purchase a lifetime pass for $80.

How Much Time Should I Spend Visiting Canyonlands National Park?

One Day in Canyonlands National Park

With only one day, you’ll only be able to choose one of the park’s districts. Due to the remote nature of The Maze, you won’t be able to visit in just one day. I would focus on either Island in the Sky or The Needles.

If you choose to spend your one day in Canyonlands at Island in the Sky, drive to as many of the overlooks as you can. I’d also recommend doing some of the shorter trails or one of the longer ones.

Some of my favorites, such as Mesa Arch and Upheaval Dome, are described below. If you have a 4-wheel drive vehicle, consider traveling on one of the dirt roads for a different view.

If you’d rather spend your day in The Needles, there’s still plenty to do. Again, I would recommend driving to a few overlooks and hiking as many shorter trails as you can or focusing on one longer one. You can also drive on unpaved roads if you have a 4-wheel drive vehicle.

Note: Driving on the following unpaved roads in Canyonlands requires a permit: White Rim, Elephant Hill, Lavender Canyon, Peekaboo/Horse Canyon

Multiple Days in Canyonlands National Park

If you have multiple days allotted for visiting Canyonlands National Park, Utah, you’re in for a treat.

With more time, you’ll be able to truly explore the amazing national park and see why it’s the favorite of so many. With so much time, you can go backpacking, rock climbing, or river rafting.

You can visit two or even three of the districts in the park. You could even drive all of the dirt roads if you desired! See as many of the gorgeous viewpoints as you can, reach the elusive Maze, and enjoy the views.

Places to Stay Near Canyonlands National Park

If you have the pleasure of spending a few days and nights in the area, you have a few different options on where to stay near Canyonlands. You can use the campgrounds in the park as your base (more on that next), or find lodging in nearby Moab.

On my cross-country road trip in 2014, we stayed at a cabin in Moab’s KOA campground. In 2019, we opted for a wonderful Airbnb within walking distance of a variety of restaurants.

Some other recommended hotels include the Sorrell River Ranch Resort, Moab Springs Ranch, and the Red Cliffs Lodge.

Canyonlands National Park Camping

There are multiple campgrounds in Canyonlands National Park for you to stay in during your visit.

The Willow Flat Campground can be found in the Island in the Sky District. It is open year-round and contains 12 sites. This campground is rather basic with no hookups or water. Sites are first-come, first-served and cost $15 per night.

The campground in The Needles District is called Squaw Flat. It offers water seasonally (but still no showers) and is also first-come, first-served. The price per night is $20 and there are 26 campsites.

Backcountry camping is another great way to see Canyonlands National Park. There are hundreds of miles of hiking trails that lead to designated backcountry campsites.

Alternatively, you can choose to set up on your own in one of the approved zones. You will require a permit for overnight backpacking in the park. More information on backpacking in Canyonlands, including all regulations, can be found here.

Canyonlands National Park Hikes

You can find a wide variety of hiking trails in Canyonlands to accommodate every hiker. Below are some of my favorites and the most recommended from some park ranger friends of mine who have worked in each of the districts.

One of them said to choose your hike based on the heat and the distance since you can’t go wrong with the scenery. Also, bring lots of water!

A complete list of trails in Canyonlands National Park, Utah can be found here.

Mesa Arch (Island in the Sky)

Easily one of the most popular hiking trails in Canyonlands National Park, Mesa Arch is also one of the most photographed areas in the park. It’s very popular at sunrise when the sun hits the arch just right for the perfect shot.

The trail itself is an easy one as well, and the views beyond the arch are spectacular. You can glimpse The Washer, one of the more famous rock formations in the park, just behind the arch.

Difficulty: Easy

Start: Mesa Arch parking area (the last parking area on the left before the turn to Upheaval Dome if you’re coming from the visitor center)

Distance (roundtrip): 0.5 mile / 0.8 km

Elevation Change: 100 feet / 30 m

Estimated Hiking Time: 30 minutes

Upheaval Dome (Island in the Sky)

This unique formation is something geologists can barely explain. It’s worth the trek to look down upon with your own eyes. There are two overlooks, each described below.

Difficulty: Moderate

Start: Upheaval Dome parking area

Distance (roundtrip): 0.8 miles / 1.3 km (first overlook), 1.8 miles / 2.9 km (second overlook)

Elevation Change: 100 feet / 30 m (first overlook), 150 feet / 45 m (second overlook)

Estimated Hiking Time: 1 hour (first overlook), 1.5 hours (second overlook)

Cave Spring (The Needles)

For those who like to mix in a bit of cultural history with their natural experiences, this trail is for you. You’ll head out to a historic cowboy camp and have the chance to see petroglyphs.

While the trail itself is marked as easy, there are two ladders you’ll need to climb. You’ll also need to travel on an unpaved road (2-wheel drive is sufficient) to reach the trailhead.

Difficulty: Easy/Moderate

Start: Cave Spring Trailhead (at the end of the first dirt road beyond the visitor center on the left)

Distance (roundtrip): 0.6 miles / 1 km

Estimated Hiking Time: 45 minutes

Druid Arch (The Needles)

A strenuous hike where both the journey and the destination are worth the effort. The trail offers spectacular views as you travel the bottom of the canyon.

Seasonally, there is water available but you should still bring plenty of your own. I wouldn’t recommend hiking this trail in the hottest months of July and August.

There are areas where some scrambling is required, and one steep ascent/descent with a ladder near the arch. There are also three backcountry sites available along the way if you choose to make the trek an overnighter (but don’t forget to get your permit first).

Difficulty: Strenuous

Start: Elephant Hill (unpaved road; 2-wheel drive sufficient). You’ll begin on the Chesler Park trail before continuing to Druid Arch via Elephant Canyon.

Distance (roundtrip): 11 miles / 18 km

Estimated Hiking Time: 5-7 hours

Horseshoe Canyon (The Maze)

Horseshoe Canyon is one of the most famous hiking areas in The Maze and Canyonlands. It’s known for its scenery as well as its unique archaeology, including The Great Gallery (a wall of rock art). In the area, you can also see wildflowers, sheer rock walls, and cottonwood trees.

This area of the park is extremely remote. Getting here requires driving on unpaved roads for 1.5 to 2 hours. The hike to the Great Galley alone is 7 miles roundtrip and takes at least 5 hours. For more information about hiking in Horseshoe Canyon, visit Canyonland’s website.

Visiting Canyonlands National Park: Island in the Sky

Island in the Sky is the most accessible district due to its proximity to Moab. This makes it the most popular for everyone visiting Canyonlands National Park.

The visitor center is open year-round and hours vary by season. There, you can purchase souvenirs, stamp your passport book, acquire a backcountry permit, speak to park rangers, and more. Water is also available year-round.

Popular things to do in Canyonlands National Park’s Island in the Sky district include hiking and driving to scenic viewpoints. One of the most popular hikes is Mesa Arch with its iconic rock formations.

Another must-do activity is driving to Grand View Point at the end of the road. It’s a short walk from the parking area and allows you to see canyons carved by the Green River and Colorado River. If you look closely, you can even see The Needles and The Maze in the distance. Even further away are the La Sal Mountains on the horizon.

Visiting Canyonlands National Park: The Needles

If you’re into crazy geologic formations, The Needles is the district for you. While it’s nothing compared to Bryce Canyon, you also can’t compare the two. The Needles is not filled with hoodoos as Bryce Canyon National Park is.

For some of the best views of wild rock formations, head to Chesler Park and Elephant Canyon. Tower Ruin and Confluence Overlook are also popular. Reaching some overlooks may require a 4-wheel drive vehicle. Furthermore, explore Roadside Ruin and Cave Spring for some cultural history and petroglyphs.

Visiting Canyonlands National Park: The Maze

The most remote district in Canyonlands National Park is The Maze. It’s most easily accessible via unpaved roads that require 4-wheel drive, on foot, or via the rivers.

Hiking requires route-finding and orientation skills, as many trails do not have markers or cairns. While the Hans Flat Ranger Station is open year-round, there are no services within The Maze (such as water, gasoline, or food).

Be prepared for a remote wilderness experience. It’s important to be self-sufficient if you plan on visiting The Maze.

More Things to Do in Canyonlands National Park, Utah

There are so many things to do in Canyonlands National Park. From boating to stargazing, this park offers activities for all ages. Activities include those listed below. More detailed information on each can be found on the official website.

• Biking
• Driving
• Boating
• Climbing
• Horseback Riding
• Stargazing
• Photography

Attend a Ranger Program

Park Rangers in the Island in the Sky and Needles districts offer ranger programs every day from spring to fall. In the Maze, some guided hikes are led most weekends from spring to fall as well.

Check the calendar for the most up-to-date list of program offerings.

What to Pack for Visiting Canyonlands National Park

Packing for a trip to the desert can be tricky. Depending on the time of year, temperatures can range from over 100 degrees Fahrenheit during the day to 50 degrees once the sun goes down. If you’re visiting in the winter, it may even snow.

Here’s a list of things you may need, with some items varying based on the season you decide to visit. For more ideas on what to pack for Canyonlands, check out my post on the best backpacking and hiking gear.

• Reusable Water Bottle: Literally the most important thing to have in the desert.
• Moisture-wicking Layers: You’ll want short- and long-sleeve shirts to wear underneath your jacket. In the summer, you may also want a tank top. Choose polyester over cotton.
• Jacket: I always have a packable down with me on trips. I also love this new jacket I got a few months ago, as it’s very light yet warm. Synthetic is a good alternative to down if you’re worried about rain or snow.
• Hiking Pants or Shorts: My favorite hiking pants can be found here. As a taller woman, I also love Columbia’s pants because they offer long sizes.
• Hat: Depending on the season, you’ll need a winter hat or summer hat.
• Gloves or Mittens: Gloves are critical if you’re visiting in the winter.
• Wool Socks: Smartwool is my favorite brand for wool socks. Make sure to get wool so your feet stay warm and dry.
• Grippers, Spikes, or Crampons: If you plan to hike in the winter, I strongly recommend grippers for Canyonlands National Park’s potentially icy trails. In February, some of Canyonlands’ trails were closed due to ice. Come prepared and avoid the fall!
• Camera: I had my trusty Canon Rebel T5i, my Canon Powershot SX620, and a GoPro with me on my most recent trip to Canyonlands.
• Tripod: If you’re hoping to take decent photos of the slot canyons, sunsets, or wildlife, I’d strongly recommend carrying a tripod with you.
• Boots: I love my Keens, and will never choose another brand for my everyday boots. In winter, I choose a much warmer pair of Solomon boots.
• Backpack: I brought my North Face pack, but a friend of mine had a water-resistant Patagonia pack I was extremely jealous of.

Where to Stamp Your National Parks Passport Book

Don’t have a national parks passport book? Purchase one here and start collecting your stamps! Or, buy your own notebook or stamp some postcards – the stamps are free for you to use on whatever you please.

NOTE: Do not stamp your country-issued passport with these! This could render them invalidated.

Island in the Sky, Needles, and Maze Visitor Centers

Stamps for Canyonlands National Park, Utah can be found at each of the three visitor centers (Island in the Sky, Needles, and Maze – Hans Flat Ranger Station) as well as Park Headquarters.

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