12 Best Things To Do in Canyonlands National Park, Utah

Are you wondering what the best things to do in Canyonlands National Park are? Well, this fantastic national park offers an almost endless list of activities and attractions to discover.

You’ll find it located in southeastern Utah near the town of Moab and Arches National Park. So if you’re planning a Utah national park road trip, you’ll certainly want to add this one to the list.

Whether you’re eager to explore the dramatic desert landscapes on a hiking trail or soak up the views of the Colorado and Green Rivers, there is plenty to see in the park. So without further ado, let’s take a look at what to do at Canyonlands National Park to make the most of your time.

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Map Of Things To Do In Canyonlands National Park

Where To Stay Near Canyonlands National Park

There are two campgrounds in Canyonlands National Park, one at the Island in the Sky and one at The Needles. If you’re seeking a little more luxury and comfort, many travelers choose to stay in Moab.

There are plenty of fun things to do in Moab, and it’s within driving distance of Canyonlands and Arches National Park.

Here are a few top picks for the best places to stay near Canyonlands.

Luxury: Moab Springs Ranch

Moab Springs Ranch is a charming 3-star hotel nestled amongst cottonwood trees. It’s ideally located near the Colorado River, downtown Moab, and Arches National Park. You can also reach Canyonlands in around 30 minutes from the hotel.

Here, you can choose to stay in a stand-alone luxury bungalow or a townhouse with up to three bedrooms. You’ll have all the necessary comforts for a pleasant stay and access to resort amenities, such as a large private park, an outdoor pool, and hammocks. >>>Check Availability

Mid-range: Comfort Suites Moab

Comfort Suites Moab near Arches National Park offers spacious, cozy suites with a number of amenities. These include flatscreen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and a work desk. You can also break a sweat at the fitness center or take a refreshing dip in the swimming pool.

The hotel provides easy access to Arches and Canyonlands National Park. It’s just a 34-minute drive from the hotel to Canyonlands and its must-see attractions. >>>Check Availability

Budget: Camping in Canyonlands National Park

Camping is an excellent option if you want to reconnect with nature and be near all the fun things to do in Canyonlands, Utah.

The Island in the Sky (Willow Flat) Campground features 12 sites, with the magnificent Green River Overlook nearby. This campground is open year-round, and the nightly camping fee is around $15 per site.

The Needles Campground has 26 individual sites as well as three group sites in various locations around the district. The campground is open year-round, with a nightly fee of about $20. Similar to the Island in the Sky Campground, the sites are first-come, first-served. But you can reserve some individual sites between spring and fall.  

Campground amenities include picnic tables, fire rings, and toilets. While you won’t have internet connectivity, it’s just all the more to unwind and take in the incredible scenery.

Read More: Where to Stay in Moab, Utah – 12 Best Hotels, Lodges & Rentals

Tours At Canyonlands National Park

What To Wear At Canyonlands National Park

• Sunscreen: Super important, and it is part of the ten essentials!  >Buy Sunscreen
• Chapstick: This one has SPF, so your lips won’t get burned! >Check Out This Chapstick
• Hiking Boots/Shoes: If you use tennis shoes, you can easily hurt your toes by hitting a rock by accident (Trust me, I have done it so many times before). Hiking boots helped tremendously in this park. They grip so well on the red rocks.  >Check Out My Hiking Shoes
• Hiking socks: Having the correct socks helps prevent getting blisters. Smart Wool is probably my favorite brand out there. >Buy Hiking Socks
• Water Reservoir: Water reservoirs help prevent dehydration while hiking. The great thing about this reservoir is that it doesn’t have a plastic taste. >Here Is My Water Reservoir
• Water: Stay nice and hydrated.
• Sunglasses: It can get sunny in the summer and winter, so make sure to pack some sunglasses. I forgot mine and it was a pain!  >Check Out These Sunglasses
• Snacks: The best snacks are jerky, nuts, and energy bars. >>>Check Out These Snacks
• Camera: The Sony A6000 was one of the first cameras I started traveling with. The Sony A6000 is an excellent camera for people that want to start improving at travel photography.  >Buy Sony Camera Here
• First Aid Kit: This is one of the first things I bought when I first started going on adventures. It is super portable. >Buy This Awesome First Aid Kit Here
• Day Pack to carry all your things: To carry all your gear, water, and food, you need a good backpack.REI has some great beginner backpacks. >Buy This Great Quality Backpack
• Headlamp: A headlamp is an absolute must in case you get stranded in the dark! It is a lot more portable and easier to use than a flashlight. >Buy A Headlamp Now
• Leggings or Hiking Pants: I always wear leggings while hiking because it is what I feel most comfortable with! >Click For My Favorite Hiking Leggings
• Breathable sweat-wicking shirts: Cotton shirts soak up your sweat when hiking, so make sure to wear something breathable. >Check out this awesome breathable shirt here.
• Mid Base Layer: If you are hiking in the Winter, Spring Or Fall, this might be a great idea.  >Check Out My Sweater Here
• Sports Bra: For women. >Check This One Here
• Jacket: I always have a jacket in my backpack, even if it is hot. I do it just in case of an emergency.  >Buy My Favorite Jacket
• Rain Jacket: The worst feeling in the world is being wet and cold while hiking.  >Check Out My Rain Jacket Here
• Tripod: This is an optional item, but it is excellent for getting the ideal sunset pictures. >Check out this tripod
• Knife: I always carry a knife in my backpack just in case. >Check Out My Knife Here
• National Park Pass:  I highly recommend getting a year-long America The Beautiful Pass so you can get into both parks with ease. >Get It Here
• Map And Trail Guide: Start planning your trip with this. >Buy One Here

Top Things To Do: Canyonlands National Park

Canyonlands comprises four districts: the Island in the Sky, The Maze Canyonlands, The Needles, and the Rivers. Each of these offers incredible experiences and hidden gems to explore.

If you’re wondering what to see in Canyonlands National Park, here are some of the best activities and attractions to add to your itinerary.

Visit the Viewpoints in Canyonlands, Utah

Canyonlands is one of Utah’s best national parks, and the scenic overlooks and viewpoints will take your breath away. If you’re short on time, be sure to visit the overlooks in the Island in the Sky district — the striking vistas are unforgettable.

While there are many spots worth checking out, Grand View Point is one of the park’s most impressive. You’ll find it at the southernmost end of the Island in the Sky scenic drive.

Here, you can admire miles of corrugated canyons. You’ll also get a glimpse of distant mountains and see the White Rim four-wheel-drive road, The Maze, and The Needles.

If you’re in the mood for a short hike, take the Grand View Point Trail to the Grand View Point Overlook. On the 1.8-mile out-and-back trail, you’ll see stunning views as you explore the canyon edge.

Other notable viewpoints to visit in Canyonlands National Park include:

• Buck Canyon Viewpoint
• Shafer Canyon Viewpoint
• Visitor Center Viewpoint
• White Rim Overlook
• Green River Overlook
• Orange Cliffs Overlook
• Big Spring Canyon Overlook

Hike the Chesler Park Loop

There are many thrilling hikes in Canyonlands National Park, and if you’re seeking a strenuous trail, why not tackle the Chesler Park Loop?

It’s an excellent pick if you want a closer look at the colorful sandstone spires in The Needles district. This 10.4-mile roundtrip hike will take around 5 to 7 hours to complete.

Hiking the Chesler Park Loop is one of the best things to do at Canyonlands National Park. It offers incredible views as you walk between the orange and red sandstone needles. 

As the trail is located in The Needles district, you’ll experience fewer crowds. However, the hikes here are more challenging, so trails in this area are recommended for moderate to advanced hikers.

Go Backpacking in The Needles

The Needles is a haven for hikers and backpackers. From scrambling up and down rocks to admiring the slot canyons, it’s truly an unforgettable experience.

Backpacking through The Needles allows you to immerse yourself in picturesque surroundings and reconnect with nature. Keep in mind, though, that the hike is more challenging than it looks, especially with a heavy backpack.

As this is one of the most popular backpacking destinations in Canyonlands National Park, you’ll want to prepare beforehand. You’ll also need a permit for overnight trips into the backcountry, and this is in high demand during the spring and fall. So if you’re visiting during peak season, be sure to make a reservation a few months in advance.

To prepare for this spectacular journey, have a look at my in-depth guide on backpacking in The Needles. It includes everything you’ll need to know, from how to get there, obtaining permits, what to pack, and other backpacking tips.

Read More: The Ultimate Needles Canyonlands Backpacking Guide

Explore The Maze District

If you’re seeking a bit more solitude, this remote area offers some of the top things to do in Canyonlands National Park. The Maze is the least accessible district in the park and less crowded than sections like the Island in the Sky.

You can only access The Maze with a four-wheel-drive vehicle. And it’s important to note that the roads are rugged, and some are difficult to drive. When driving to The Maze, a Canyonlands National Park map is recommended. You can purchase a map at the park store or download it online.

You can easily spend hours exploring the secluded canyons and soaking up the stunning views. So you’ll want to allocate at least two to three days to explore The Maze. From admiring the orange cliffs to visiting Horseshoe Canyon, there is ample adventure on offer.

Admire Rock Art at Horseshoe Canyon

Calling all history buffs and art lovers, Horseshoe Canyon is home to some of the best things to see in Canyonlands National Park. Here you’ll come across significant rock art, including well-preserved life-sized figures and petroglyphs.

You’ll find Horseshoe Canyon north of The Maze district and west of the Green River. Most travelers access it from the west. You can travel along the 30-mile dirt road from UT 24, or, take the 47-mile route traveling south from Green River.

The driving time from Moab is roughly 2.5 hours, while driving from Green River will take around 1.5 hours.

The prehistoric rock paintings are certainly amongst Canyonlands’ must-see attractions, and you can enjoy a variety of activities in the area. From tackling hiking trails and horseback riding to admiring the spring wildflowers and cottonwood groves, there is plenty to see and do in Horseshoe Canyon.

Take Photos at Mesa Arch

If you’re looking for views and photographic opportunities that’ll leave you in awe, make your way to Mesa Arch on the eastern edge of the Island in the Sky. At this 27-foot-long arch, you’ll see breathtaking views of the canyon below and the La Sal Mountains in the distance.

It’s just a short walk to reach this cliff-edge arch. The easy, 0.6-mile Mesa Arch Trail will take around 30 minutes to complete. Once there, unpack your camera gear and capture those stunning shots.

The best time to visit Mesa Arch is at sunrise. During this time, you’ll encounter fewer tourists and see the early morning light illuminate the bottom of the arch, creating incredible views.  

Tackle a Hiking Trail in Island in the Sky

A list of Canyonlands things to do would be incomplete without a few Island in the Sky hikes. The park features hundreds of miles of hiking trails, and you’ll find a couple of easy, moderate, and challenging hikes in the district.

In addition to the Mesa Arch and Grand View Point hikes, other easy and shorter trails include White Rim Overlook and Murphy Point Trail. The White Rim trail is a 1.8-mile easy hike that takes around 1.5 hours to complete.

On the out-and-back route, you’ll have 360-degree views of the canyons and mountains. You’ll also walk to an overlook that offers mesmerizing views of the Colorado River, La Sal Mountains, and Monument Basin.

If you’re up for a slightly longer hike, the 3.4-mile Murphy Point Trail is an excellent option. The trail is pretty flat, with beautiful views of the canyon in the distance. You’ll be rewarded with incredible vistas of Candlestick Tower, the Green River, and the White Rim Road at the endpoint.

For those seeking a moderate trail in the Island in the Sky, here are a few hikes to consider:

• Upheaval Dome – 1.7 miles roundtrip (0.6 miles to the first overlook)
• Whale Rock – 0.8 miles roundtrip
• Aztec Butte – 1.4 miles roundtrip

The Island in the Sky also features some difficult hiking trails, like the Gooseberry Canyon. This 4.6-mile trail takes around 4 to 6 hours. It is steep and strenuous, but the magnificent views are totally worth it.

Read More: The 9 Best Hikes In Canyonlands National Park

Enjoy Mountain Biking

Renowned for its mountain biking terrain, Canyonlands National Park is a wonderful spot for bike trips.

If you want to ride your bicycle or e-bike on a paved road, you’ll find several at The Needles and the Island in the Sky. For those looking to hit the backcountry roads, the 100-mile White Rim Road at the Island in the Sky is a fantastic option.

This famous road loops around and below the Island in the Sky mesa top, and takes around three to four days to complete. As you would expect, you’ll have spectacular views along the way. 

If you were hoping for a secluded ride, The Maze features similar terrain to the White Rim Road in a remote location. However, the route is more technical.

For a more strenuous ride, tackle the backcountry roads in The Needles. Here, you’ll come across 50 miles of challenging backcountry roads, including the Colorado Overlook Road and Elephant Hill Road. It’s important to note that some roads are too sandy for most mountain bikes, including the Salt Creek and Lavender Canyon roads.

Go Boating on the Green and Colorado Rivers

After getting your boots dirty on a trail, it’s time for some rest and relaxation by the river. Whether you want to hop in your canoe or sit on the shoreside, the calm waters create a peaceful setting to unwind.

The mighty Colorado River flows through Canyonlands, and the Green River meets it inside the park at the confluence. The rivers offer miles of flatwater for outdoor adventures and provide a unique perspective of the park.

You’ll also see animals living along the rivers, so keep an eye out for a cute beaver by its den. As the rivers are slow-moving and wide, you’ll have ample space to move around and take in the beautiful surroundings. So if you’re an eager boater, grab your kayak, canoe, or other shallow-water boats, and make your way to the Colorado and Green Rivers.

Read More: One Day in Canyonlands National Park | Amazing Itinerary for 1 Day Visits

Drive Along the White Rim Road

If you’re looking for the best things to see in Canyonlands National Park, taking a scenic drive along the White Rim Road offers unforgettable views. All you’ll need is a high-clearance 4×4 vehicle, a permit, and some money for the park’s entrance fee.

Canyonlands entrance fee is around $30 for a private vehicle, and the motorcycle fee is $25. The rates for individuals with no car are $15 per person, and children aged 15 and under can enter free of charge. 

Of course, you can ride along the road with a motorbike or bicycle. But, traveling by vehicle allows you to spend time and bond with your travel buddies — and you can do it in a shorter time than with bike rides.

Driving the entire 100-mile loop will take you around two to three days. While it can be done in a day during the long spring and summer days, it’s best to take your time to experience it all. You can drive along the White Rim Road all year round, but the spring and fall seasons offer pleasant temperatures.

During your adventure, you can stay in one of the campsites situated along the road. Each of the 20 individual campsites can accommodate up to 15 individuals. It’s recommended to make a reservation in advance, especially if you’re visiting during spring and fall.

See the Sunset at Dead Horse Point State Park

After a fun-filled day of exploring Canyonlands National Park’s must-see attractions, take a trip to Dead Horse Point State Park for gorgeous sunset views. You’ll find it situated just a short 20-minute drive from the Island in the Sky visitor center.

The main viewpoints are the Meander Overlook and the Dead Horse Point. Both are wonderful spots for watching the sunset. From the dramatic views of Shafer Canyon to the glistening Colorado River, you’ll have plenty of reasons to bring your camera along.

Admire the Night Sky

Southeast Utah parks have dreamy night skies, and Canyonlands National Park is no exception. Here, you can witness a wealth of stars with the naked eye.

Whether you’re planning on stargazing on your own, with a loved one, or taking a stargazing program with a ranger, you’ll be amazed by the views after dark. Keep in mind that your eyes may take around 20 to 30 minutes to adjust to the dark, so it’s best to avoid bright lights during this time.

You can also bring a star chart and a red light headlamp along to help find the constellations and see the Milky Way across the sky.

Best Time To Go to Canyonlands National Park

The best time to visit Canyonlands National Park is in spring or fall. During this time, you’ll experience pleasant daytime temperatures and cooler nights. 

It’s worth noting, though, that fall and spring are the busier seasons. Although the park doesn’t get as crowded as other major national parks, it’s recommended to get an early start to the day to avoid the crowds and the midday heat.  

How To Get to Canyonlands National Park

If you’re traveling by plane, you can get to Canyonlands by flying into one of the following airports:

• Salt Lake City International Airport (237 miles from Moab)
• Grand Junction Airport (113 miles from Moab)
• Canyonlands Field Airport (16 miles from Moab)

Once you’ve arrived, you’ll need a vehicle to get around the park. If you’re planning to drive popular routes like the White Rim Road, you might want to rent a Jeep or another high-clearance 4×4. And don’t forget your bicycle and gear if you’re going to enjoy scenic rides.

The Island in the Sky district is the most accessible, while other areas may require hiking, four-wheel driving, and boating when exploring the attractions.

Canyonlands National Park Things To Do | FAQs

Now that we’ve covered how to get there, where to stay, and what to see at Canyonlands National Park, you might need a few more tips to plan the perfect trip. Here are the answers to some commonly asked questions about Canyonlands.

Is Canyonlands National Park Worth Visiting?

Yes! Canyonlands is certainly worth visiting. Although it can be overlooked for other popular national parks like Arches and Zion, Canyonlands has an array of activities and attractions on offer. From its countless canyons and glistening rivers to the thrilling hiking trails, there is so much to see and experience in the park.

How Much Time is Needed to See the Best of Canyonlands National Park?

You can see several top attractions in one day. However, if you want to explore multiple districts and attractions, it’s best to allocate at least two days for your Canyonlands trip.

Is Canyonlands Better than Arches National Park?

Canyonlands and Arches are both fantastic national parks to visit. But if you’re looking to escape the crowds, Canyonlands gets fewer visitors than Arches. You’ll also get to enjoy longer hiking trails, water activities, 4×4 adventures, and biking in Canyonlands.

If you can’t decide between the two, you’ll be happy to know that getting from Arches to Canyonlands is just a 30-minute drive.

Wrapping up What to Do in Canyonlands National Park

There are tons of fun things to do in Canyonlands National Park, and hopefully, you now know what you’ll be tackling first. Whether you’re eager to get your hiking boots dirty or take on a multi-day bike trip, there are plenty of exciting experiences on offer. 

If you want more outdoor adventures, why not add another national park to your trip? Have a look at this Arches to Canyonlands itinerary — you’ll be amazed by all you can see in a day!

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