Canyonlands National Park: The Only Guide You’ll Need
- Logan & Audri
- Aug 23
- 13 min read
Canyonlands National Park is the least visited of Utah’s Mighty 5, and honestly, we don’t understand why. At over 330,000 acres, it’s the largest national park in the state, with landscapes carved by the Colorado and Green Rivers into canyons, arches, spires, and mesas.
Maybe it’s because Zion and Arches get all the hype, but that’s exactly what makes Canyonlands feel so special, it’s underrated, quiet, and easy to explore without the same crowds you’ll find elsewhere.
The park is divided into four districts: Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze, and the Rivers. Each one feels like its own adventure, from sunrise views at Mesa Arch to backcountry trails in The Needles and multi-day river trips along the Colorado.
We’ve visited Canyonlands multiple times, and no two trips have ever felt the same. Whether you’re here for a quick day trip from Moab or a multi-day adventure deep into the park, this guide covers everything you need to know: the best hikes and viewpoints, when to visit, where to stay, and how to choose which district to explore.
👉 Planning to see all of Utah’s national parks in one epic loop? Don’t miss our Mighty 5 Road Trip Guide where we share all the details, tips, and itineraries.
Table of Contents
Where is Canyonlands National Park?
Canyonlands National Park is in southeastern Utah, just outside one of the best adventure towns in the United States, Moab. It’s about 30 miles from Arches National Park, which makes it super easy to combine both parks in the same trip.
Here’s a quick look at distances:
Moab → Island in the Sky Visitor Center: ~40 minutes (30 miles)
Arches National Park → Canyonlands (Island in the Sky): ~30 minutes (26 miles)
Salt Lake City → Canyonlands: ~4 hours (230 miles)
Las Vegas → Canyonlands: ~6.5 hours (460 miles)
Denver → Canyonlands: ~6 hours (355 miles)
Most visitors base themselves in Moab, since it has the most hotels, restaurants, and tour operators nearby. From there, you can easily spend a day exploring Island in the Sky or head farther out to The Needles District.
Keep in mind, the districts are not connected by roads inside the park. For example, driving from Island in the Sky to The Needles takes about 2 hours, even though they look close on the map. That’s one of the reasons Canyonlands feels so vast and untouched.
👉 If you’re planning on visiting Arches National Park during your time in Moab, we put together a Guide to Arches National Park to help you plan your visit!
Canyonlands Entrance Fees & Hours
Like most U.S. national parks, Canyonlands charges an entrance fee, and your pass covers all four districts (Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze, and the Rivers), make sure to keep your receipt as its valid for 7 days.
Private Vehicle: $30 per vehicle
Motorcycle: $25
Individual (hiker, biker, pedestrian): $15
Annual Park Pass: $55 (unlimited visits to Canyonlands for a year)
America the Beautiful Pass: $80 (best deal if you’re visiting multiple national parks in one year).
The park is open 24 hours a day, year-round. Visitor center hours vary by district, so double-check before you go, especially in winter when some centers close seasonally.
Best Time to Visit Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands is open year-round, but the experience changes a lot depending on the season. Since it’s in the high desert, you’ll want to plan around big swings in temperature.
Spring (March–May) Spring is one of the best times to visit. Daytime highs sit in the 60s–70s, perfect for hiking without melting in the sun. Wildflowers also start to bloom, adding pops of color to the desert landscape.
Summer (June–August) Summer brings long days and blazing heat (often above 100°F in the afternoons). This is when most visitors come, so expect more crowded overlooks and limited parking at Island in the Sky. If you visit in summer, start hikes before sunrise and rest midday.
Fall (September–October) Fall is our favorite time in Canyonlands. Temperatures are similar to spring but the crowds thin out, making it easier to find solitude. This is also peak time for photographers, clear skies, golden sunsets, and mild weather make it picture-perfect.
Winter (November–February) Winter is the quiet season, with crisp days and cold nights (sometimes dipping below freezing). Snow occasionally dusts the red rock mesas, which is stunning if you’re willing to bundle up. The best part about it is that you might have trails and overlooks completely to yourself.
Canyonlands Districts Explained
Island in the Sky
If you only have time for one district in Canyonlands, make it Island in the Sky. It’s the most accessible part of the park, just 40 minutes from Moab, and it gives you amazing views with minimal effort.
The scenic drive through this district has plenty of pull-offs where you can get classic Canyonlands views without long hikes. Some highlights you shouldn’t miss:
Mesa Arch → Best at sunrise when the arch glows orange as the sun peeks through. It’s only a half-mile hike, but get there early, it’s popular for good reason.
Grand View Point → Exactly what it sounds like, a panoramic view that looks straight out over the canyons, rivers, and buttes.
Green River Overlook → A slightly quieter viewpoint that shows off where the river cuts through the desert (this one is our personal favorite!)
Upheaval Dome → A mysterious crater scientists still debate about, whether it’s a meteor strike or a collapsed salt dome. The short trail gives you two overlooks into this strange formation.
If you’re short on time, you can see the best of Island in the Sky in half a day, making it perfect for first-time visitors or as a combo with nearby Arches National Park.
The Needles
If Island in the Sky is all about stunning overlooks, the Needles is where Canyonlands gets even better. Located about an hour and a half from Moab, this district feels like a completely different park. Instead of standing on top of mesas, you’re hiking through colorful spires, slot canyons, and huge rock formations that make you feel small.
The Needles is a hiker’s paradise. Trails like Chesler Park and Druid Arch weave through sandstone spires that look almost like giant stone fingers reaching for the sky. These hikes are longer and more rugged than what you’ll find in Island in the Sky, but they reward you with some of the most unique and surreal landscapes in all of Utah. Even the shorter hikes, like Cave Spring or Pothole Point, give you a taste of the district’s wild character.
Because it’s farther out and more effort to explore, the Needles is much quieter than Island in the Sky. It’s the place to go if you really want some solitude.
The Maze
The Maze is remote, rugged, and notoriously difficult to navigate, it’s often called one of the most challenging areas in the entire U.S. national park system. This isn’t the kind of place you just stumble into on a weekend road trip, it’s for serious backcountry adventurers only.
Getting here takes time (several hours from Moab, most of it on dirt roads), and once you arrive, you’re in true wilderness. The trails aren’t really “trails” in the traditional sense, they’re rough routes that require navigation skills, experience, and full self-sufficiency. Cell service doesn’t exist out here, and even park rangers warn that rescue can take days.
That said, for those who are prepared, the Maze offers landscapes that few people ever get to see: labyrinth-like canyons, massive sandstone walls, and an unreal amount of silence. It’s the definition of untouched backcountry.
If you’re not an experienced backpacker with time and gear to spare, this probably isn’t the district for you. But knowing that places like the Maze still exist is part of what makes Canyonlands such a special park.
The Rivers
Two mighty rivers, the Colorado and the Green, slice through Canyonlands, carving out the dramatic canyons that give the park its name. While most visitors admire them from above at overlooks like Green River Overlook or Grand View Point, you can also experience these rivers up close, and it’s a completely different perspective.
Rafting or kayaking is the most popular way to explore. The calm sections of the Green River are great for multi-day floats, where you can paddle through towering canyon walls, camp along sandy beaches, and feel completely disconnected from the outside world. If you’re up for something wilder, the Colorado River offers whitewater stretches like Cataract Canyon, often called “The Grand Canyon’s little brother” because of its massive rapids and remote setting.
Trips on the rivers require preparation (or going with an outfitter), but they’re one of the most adventurous ways to see Canyonlands. Floating between those towering red walls gives you a sense of scale that you just can’t get from the rim.
Even if you don’t hit the water, just knowing the role the rivers play here helps you appreciate the park more. They are the lifelines of Canyonlands, shaping the land, supporting wildlife, and creating the beautiful views that make this place so special.
Best Things to Do in Canyonlands
Canyonlands is huge, but you don’t need to see it all to have an amazing trip. A lot of the most memorable spots are easy to access, while others take more time and adventure. These are the highlights that truly show off the park:
Mesa Arch
If there’s one photo you’ve seen of Canyonlands, it’s probably this one. At sunrise, the arch glows fiery orange while framing the canyon below. The short walk makes it easy to reach, but get there early because it’s the most popular spot in the park.
Grand View Point
Grand View Point truly lives up to its name, you can see hundreds of miles of canyons, mesas, and buttes stretching into the horizon. It’s the best place to grasp just how endless Canyonlands really is, especially at sunset when shadows stretch across the landscape
Green River Overlook
The Green River Overlook gives you one of the best perspectives on how rivers shaped this landscape. From here, you can actually trace the winding curves of the Green River far below, a contrast of blue against the red rock desert.
White Rim Road
For those who want adventure, this 71-mile dirt road is legendary. It takes you below the rim into rugged desert scenery that feels untouched. You’ll need a high-clearance 4x4 (and a permit), but even driving just a portion of it gives you a whole new perspective on the park.
Chesler Park (Needles District)
If you want to go beyond overlooks, this trail leads you deep into the Needles, winding past red spires and narrow rock passages before opening into a stunning meadow. It’s a long hike (around 11 miles), but many say it’s one of the best in all of Utah.
Stargazing
Canyonlands is one of the best places in the country to see the night sky. With almost no light pollution, you’ll be able to spot the Milky Way, shooting stars, and constellations you’ve never noticed before. Bring a blanket, lay back, and just look up, it’s magical.
How Many Days Do You Need in Canyonlands?
Canyonlands is massive, so technically you could spend weeks here and still not see it all. But most visitors only have a day or two, especially if they’re pairing it with Arches or the rest of the Mighty 5. The good news is that you can absolutely get a great taste of the park without dedicating weeks to it.
If you only have one day, stick to Island in the Sky. It’s the easiest district to reach from Moab, and you’ll get those sweeping canyon views the park is famous for without needing long hikes. Drive the scenic loop, stop at Mesa Arch at sunrise, and take in Grand View Point before heading to Green River Overlook or Upheaval Dome.
With two or three days, you’ll have time to go deeper. That’s when you should add The Needles, a totally different part of the park filled with colorful spires, slot canyons, and longer trails like Chesler Park. It’s a hiker’s paradise and is far less crowded than Island in the Sky.
If you’re here for four days or more, the adventure really opens up. You can tackle the famous White Rim Road or even plan a multi-day rafting trip down the Colorado or Green Rivers. For the truly adventurous, this is also when you might consider the Maze, but please do not go unless you are an experienced backcountry explorer.
Getting Around Canyonlands
Unlike Zion or Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands doesn’t have a shuttle system. That means you’ll need your own vehicle to explore the park. The districts are spread out and not connected by internal roads, so driving is the only way to move between them.
Island in the Sky has a paved scenic drive that passenger cars can handle easily. Parking can fill up in summer, so arrive early.
The Needles also has paved roads to the visitor center and trailheads, though some side roads require high-clearance or 4x4 vehicles.
The Maze is only accessible by long dirt roads, and you absolutely need a high-clearance 4x4 with proper navigation skills.
The Rivers require rafting/kayaking, often with an outfitter or your own backcountry setup.
Where to Stay Near Canyonlands?
Unlike some of Utah’s other national parks, Canyonlands doesn’t have any hotels or lodges inside the park. Your best bet is to base yourself in Moab, just 40 minutes from the Island in the Sky entrance. Moab is also right next to Arches National Park, which makes it the perfect hub for exploring both parks on the same trip.
Moab has a wide range of places to stay, everything from budget motels and chain hotels to upscale resorts and cozy vacation rentals. Camping is also very popular, with both established campgrounds and more primitive sites on BLM land outside the parks.
That said, Moab is a very small town. If you’re planning to visit during the summer or spring break season, you’ll want to book your stay as early as possible. Hotels and rentals fill up quickly, and prices can skyrocket when availability gets low.
👉 If you’re planning on exploring more of Moab, don't miss our blog on the 7 Most Breathtaking Places in Moab!
Top Hotel Picks in Moab
We’ve personally stayed at all of these hotels in Moab, and they’re all amazing in their own way. Whether you’re looking for comfort, location, or luxury, you really can’t go wrong with any of them!
WorldMark Moab – Favorite with families, offering roomy suites, full kitchens, and a relaxed, apartment-style feel tucked just outside downtown. Book your stay at WorldMark Moab here.
Hoodoo Moab, Curio Collection by Hilton – One of the more upscale options. Right downtown, it’s convenient for dining, shopping, and grabbing coffee before hitting the trails. Book your stay at Hoodoo Moab here.
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Moab – A solid mid-range choice, with modern rooms, a pool, and hot tub, ideal for unwinding after long canyon days. Book your stay at Springhill Suites Moab here.
Camping Options
We haven’t camped in Canyonlands or Moab ourselves (yet!), but a lot of our friends absolutely rave about it. It’s something we’re excited to try one day, and in the meantime, here are the top campgrounds that have been recommended to us again and again.
Willow Flat Campground (Island in the Sky) – The only developed campground within the park district. No reservations, so arrive early—great if you want sunrise Mesa Arch access. See more info about Willow Flat Campground here.
The Needles Campground – Located inside the Needles District with tent sites and RV spots. Requires reservations. Perfect for anyone spending multiple nights here. Reserve your spot at The Needles Campground here.
BLM Sites – A handful of free or low-cost primitive campsites along Potash-Lower Colorado River Road. Scenic, affordable, and less crowded than Moab-area campgrounds. See more info about BLM Campsites in Moab here.
What to Pack for Canyonlands
Canyonlands is rugged, remote, and has some of the biggest temperature swings you’ll find on a national park trip. Days can be blazing hot, while mornings and nights get surprisingly chilly. Plus, with little to no cell service, you’ll want to be prepared before you head out. Here’s what we recommend packing:
Clothing & Layers
Lightweight, moisture-wicking shirts for daytime
A warm jacket or fleece for early mornings/evenings
Hiking pants or shorts (zip-off styles are super handy)
Wide-brim hat & sunglasses for sun protection
A rain jacket (summer storms can roll in quickly)
Footwear
Sturdy hiking boots with good grip
Comfortable sandals or camp shoes for downtime
Extra socks (you’ll be glad you packed them)
Day Hiking Essentials
A reliable backpack
Hydration system (CamelBak or water bottles, aim for 3L per person)
Trail snacks (jerky, nuts, granola bars)
Sunscreen & SPF lip balm
A small first aid kit
Headlamp (it gets dark in a dark sky park!)
Extras That Make a Big Difference
Paper map or GPS device (don’t count on cell service)
Trekking poles (especially helpful on uneven terrain)
Binoculars for spotting wildlife or stargazing
Cooling towel (lifesaver on summer hikes)
Portable power bank for phones/cameras
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👉 Want to make packing easier? We’ve rounded up our favorite gear in our Amazon Storefront so you can see exactly what we use for desert adventures like this.
Is Canyonlands National Park Worth Visiting?
Absolutely, Canyonlands is one of the most underrated national parks in the U.S., and it deserves way more attention than it gets. While it doesn’t have the instant name recognition of Zion or Arches, what makes Canyonlands so special is its vastness, variety, and solitude. It’s Utah’s largest national park, yet it’s also the least crowded, which means you can often enjoy world-class views and trails without the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds you’ll find in other parks.
If you only have one day, Island in the Sky will give you sweeping overlooks, an amazing sunrise at Mesa Arch, and a sense of the park’s scale. With more time, you can dive deeper into the Needles District, tackle backcountry adventures in the Maze, or experience the Colorado and Green Rivers from the water. No matter how much you explore, Canyonlands will keep surprising you.
FAQ About Canyonlands
Do you need a reservation for Canyonlands National Park?
No, Canyonlands does not require reservations for entry. However, some activities like camping, backpacking permits, or the White Rim Road drive do require reservations and permits in advance.
Is Canyonlands National Park family-friendly?
Yes, especially Island in the Sky. Short hikes like Mesa Arch and easy overlooks make it great for kids. Just bring plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection, as there is little shade. The Needles is better for older kids who enjoy longer hikes.
Is Canyonlands accessible for people with limited mobility?
Several overlooks in Island in the Sky, like Grand View Point and Green River Overlook, are wheelchair accessible with paved paths or boardwalks. Visitor centers also have accessible facilities. However, most trails are rugged and not wheelchair-friendly.
Is there food or gas available inside Canyonlands?
No, there are no restaurants, grocery stores, or gas stations inside the park. You’ll need to stock up in Moab or Monticello before entering. Always bring extra water and snacks.
Which is better: Canyonlands or Arches National Park?
It depends on what you want. Arches is compact, easy to explore, and has some of the most beautiful famous natural arches. Canyonlands is much larger, quieter, and offers canyon views, backcountry hikes, and rafting. Most travelers visit both since they’re only 30 minutes apart.
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