Canyonlands National Park in southeastern Utah is a land of towering mesas, vast canyons, winding rivers, and endless horizons. Spread across nearly 337,000 acres, the park is divided into four distinct districts—Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze, and the rivers themselves (Green and Colorado). Each section offers its own adventures, ranging from easy overlooks to backcountry explorations. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned adventurer, Canyonlands delivers an unforgettable desert experience. Here are the best things to do in Canyonlands National Park.
1. Watch the Sunrise at Mesa Arch
Mesa Arch is one of the most photographed spots in the park, and for good reason. Perched on the edge of a cliff in the Island in the Sky district, the arch frames a dramatic view of the canyons and La Sal Mountains beyond. At sunrise, the underside of the arch glows with fiery orange hues, making it an incredible spectacle for photographers and nature lovers alike. The hike to Mesa Arch is just 0.5 miles round-trip, making it accessible for nearly everyone.
2. Drive the Island in the Sky Scenic Drive
For those who want a broad introduction to Canyonlands, the Island in the Sky Scenic Drive is a must. This 34-mile paved road leads to numerous overlooks and short trails, offering sweeping views of the canyons carved by the Colorado and Green Rivers. Highlights include Green River Overlook, Grand View Point, and Shafer Canyon Overlook. Each stop reveals the park’s grand scale and layered geology, giving visitors a sense of just how vast and wild this landscape is.
3. Hike to Grand View Point
Grand View Point lives up to its name, offering one of the most breathtaking panoramas in the park. From the overlook, you can gaze out over a maze of canyons, mesas, and buttes stretching as far as the eye can see. A short two-mile round-trip trail follows the rim, providing additional vantage points and quiet spots to soak in the scenery. It’s a simple hike with maximum reward, making it a favorite among visitors.
4. Explore the Needles District
If you’re craving adventure beyond the overlooks, head to the Needles District. Named after the colorful sandstone spires that dominate the landscape, this district is a paradise for hikers and backpackers. Trails like Chesler Park Loop (about 11 miles) lead through narrow canyons, wide meadows, and among the “needles” themselves. Shorter hikes, such as Cave Spring or Pothole Point, offer fascinating glimpses of desert ecology and ancient rock art. Because of its remoteness, the Needles provides a quieter, more immersive experience compared to Island in the Sky.
5. Drive the White Rim Road
For off-road enthusiasts, the White Rim Road is the ultimate challenge. This 100-mile loop circles the Island in the Sky mesa, offering unparalleled access to remote parts of the park. The road requires a high-clearance 4WD vehicle and typically takes two to three days to complete. Along the way, you’ll encounter dramatic overlooks, hidden canyons, and camping spots under dazzling night skies. Permits are required, and the route should be attempted only by prepared and experienced drivers.
6. Raft the Colorado and Green Rivers
Canyonlands isn’t just about canyons—you can also experience the park from the water. The Colorado and Green Rivers converge within the park, carving deep gorges and offering thrilling opportunities for rafting and kayaking. The calmer stretches of the Green River are perfect for a relaxed multi-day float trip, while Cataract Canyon on the Colorado River delivers some of the most intense whitewater rapids in North America. Guided trips are available for all experience levels, making this a unique way to see the park.
7. Stargazing in the Dark Sky Park
Canyonlands has been designated a Gold-Tier International Dark Sky Park, meaning it offers some of the best stargazing in the world. With minimal light pollution, the night skies explode with stars, planets, and even the Milky Way. Popular stargazing spots include Grand View Point and the Needles Campground. Whether you bring a telescope or simply look up with the naked eye, the night sky in Canyonlands is an awe-inspiring experience you won’t forget.
8. Discover Rock Art and Ancient Sites
Long before it became a national park, Canyonlands was home to Indigenous peoples whose presence is still felt through ancient rock art and dwellings. In the Horseshoe Canyon Unit, the Great Gallery features some of the most well-preserved and haunting pictographs in North America, dating back thousands of years. These life-sized human-like figures provide a fascinating glimpse into the cultural history of the region. Remember to view them respectfully and avoid touching or damaging the fragile artwork.
9. Backpack into The Maze
For the ultimate backcountry adventure, experienced hikers and explorers can venture into The Maze district. Known as one of the most remote and challenging areas in the United States, The Maze features twisting canyons, sheer cliffs, and minimal services. Trails like the Maze Overlook or the Harvest Scene offer unmatched solitude and adventure. Because of the difficulty and remoteness, this area is best suited for skilled backpackers with solid navigation and survival skills.
10. Camp Under the Desert Sky
Camping is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the beauty of Canyonlands. The park has developed campgrounds in both Island in the Sky (Willow Flat) and The Needles, along with numerous backcountry sites accessible by hiking, biking, or driving. Spending the night in the park allows you to catch sunrise, sunset, and the incredible starry skies, all without the need to rush back to town. Reservations are recommended during the busy season.
Final Thoughts
Canyonlands National Park is a place of extremes—towering cliffs, deep gorges, rugged trails, and infinite skies. From the easily accessible overlooks of Island in the Sky to the remote wilderness of The Maze, the park offers adventures for every type of traveler. Whether you come for a few hours or a few days, the experience of standing on the edge of its vast landscapes is humbling and unforgettable.
So pack your hiking boots, bring your camera, and prepare to be amazed. Canyonlands isn’t just a destination—it’s an invitation to witness the power and beauty of nature in one of America’s most iconic landscapes.
