How to Visit Canyonlands National Park: Essential Guide to All 4 Districts

If you’re seeking colorful canyons, mesas, buttes, arches, and spires, Canyonlands National Park is the perfect destination.  This stunning National Park is the largest in Utah, but you’ll need some unique tricks and twists to visit it as it is divided up into four different parts with varying access points. Here is what you need to know to visit Canyonlands National Park.

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About Canyonlands National Park

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Canyonlands National Park is unique in that it is separated into four different districts. Each district offers incredible opportunities to explore the canyons that have made this area so famous. You’ll find endless views and hiking opportunities along with making memories that last a lifetime.

The Four Districts of Canyonlands National Park

As noted above, there are four distinct districts in Canyonlands National Park. Each one offers different experiences and options for new adventures. However, they are also all divided by the Green and Colorado Rivers. This means they all have different entrances, and there are no roads directly between the different districts.

Due to this, it’s important to choose which district you plan to visit before setting off to explore. Note that driving times between the districts can take between two and six hours so where you plan to visit may also weigh in on where to stay when visiting Canyonlands National Park.

The four districts are:

1. Island in the Sky
2. The Needles
3. The Maze
4. The Green and Colorado Rivers

We’ll dive further into the details of each district below and how you can determine which district is for you.

Admission & Hours of Operation

Canyonlands National Park is open 24 hours per day, year-round.  It does have admission fees unless you have one of the National Park Passes. 

Here are the details:

• Private Vehicle: $30
• Motorcycle: $25
• Per Person (biciclysists/pedestrians): $15
• Included in the $55 Southeast Utah Parks Annual Pass
• Included in the $80 Interagency Annual Pass
• See additional America the Beautiful Pass options

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Island in the Sky

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The most accessible part of Canyonlands National Park is the Island in the Sky district. It is named for its appearance of a mesa interrupting the deep canyons surrounding it, standing almost 1,000 feet above the canyon floors.

In Island in the Sky you’ll find scenic overlooks accessible by paved roads, a number of hiking trails starting with some very short beginner trails, and even a four-wheel drive route along the White Rim Road. You can stop by the Island in the Sky Visitor Center to pick up a map.

Must See Locations in Island in the Sky

You’ll find endless opportunities for stunning views, perfect pictures, and fairly simple hiking in Island in the Sky. Here are the top locations to check out.

• Mesa Arch Trail: This 0.7 mile loop trail takes you to the famous Mesa Arch, a popular spot for sunrise photography. It should only take about 30 minutes to hike and enjoy the views.

• Grand View Point: The southernmost point of the Island in the Sky scenic drive, you can walk a paved path 1.8 mile out and back to some stunning views over the White Rim, the Maze, and the Needles. Plan about 1.5 hours for this adventure.

• Upheaval Dome via Crater View Trail: If you’re looking for a short and sweet hike, try Upheaval Dome. This trail is only 1.7 miles long but features a 150 foot elevation change and will take about 45 minutes. You’ll be rewarded with two main viewpoints of the mile-wide crater.

• Sunset at Green River Overlook: Watch the sunset over the Green River with expansive views at this roadside overlook.

View a map of Island in the Sky.

Dead Horse Point State Park

While Dead Horse Point State Park is not part of Canyonlands National Park, it is located very close to the entrance of the Island in the Sky, and it makes sense to connect them into one trip.

Dead Horse Point sits 2,000 feet above a large bend in the Colorado River and is incredibly scenic. As it is not part of Canyonlands National Park, you will need to pay a separate park fee of $20 to get in. Your pass will be valid for 2 consecutive days once you purchase it.

Other than visiting the main Dead Horse Point Overlook Trail, there are options of about 7 miles of hiking trails that follow the rim to various overlook points.

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The Needles

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The second district to visit in Canyonlands National Park is the Needles.  It is named after the colorful spires of Cedar Mesa Sandstone found through the district. Here you’ll find many longer hikes than Island in the Sky and not as many scenic viewpoints from the roads.  It is much more of a “backcountry” hiking spot featuring more 4 wheel drive roads, longer, less populated hikes, and harder to follow trails.

Must Visit Locations in The Needles

The Needles features a lot of different hiking options, just make sure to choose trails that match your skill level. You do not want to get stranded multiple miles from your car. Also, verify the roads you need to take to get to the trailheads. While you can get to most with 2 wheel drive vehicles, there are some that require 4 wheel drive.

• Roadside Ruins: As expected by the name, this is pretty much roadside. It is located just 0.3 miles off the side of the road and leads to a storage structure built by indigenous people.

• Cave Spring: Follow this 0.6 mile loop to a historic cowboy camp and prehistoric rock paintings. You’ll get the thrill of climbing 2 ladders along the way.

• Chesler Park Loop Trail: One of the most beautiful trails in the Needles, Chesler Park is a loop trail that is 10.4 miles in length and will take between 5-7 hours to hike. You’ll find endless views and narrow canyons to scramble through.

• Druid Arch Trail: A challenging but rewarding 10.4 mile out and back hike that takes you to the beautiful Druid Arch. You’ll be rewarded with great views of the Needles and get to travel through Elephant Canyon which features deep sand and loose rock. Plan between 5-7 hours to hike it.

View a map of the Needles.

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The Maze

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The Maze is the most illusive of the four districts in Canyonlands. This is because most people visiting the Maze need 4 wheel drive, need to be prepared to backpack in and camp overnight, and require special permits. It’s actually rare for visitors to spend less than three days in the Maze. However, if that sounds like something you’d like to do, it will reward you!

Need to Know Before Visiting The Maze

The Maze at Canyonlands National Park has been labeled as one of the top 10 dangerous hikes in America by Backpacker Magazine. As you try to navigate the Maze through the bottoms of canyons that look mostly the same, you will understand why. As such, it’s important to know a few things before going into the Maze.

• Trails can be steep, unmarked, and minimally maintained making route finding difficult, especially in washes where there are no cairns.

• Many of the canyons will start looking alike after a while, so you will want to pack a topographic map and compass (and be able to read them!).

• Many routes require basic climbing maneuvers to navigate sections of steep slickrock and pour-offs. Pack a 25-foot length of rope to help raise or lower your pack in challenging spots.

• Pack in all of the water you will need as water sources are scarce.

• Be familiar with all needed safety and survival tips for such an adventure.

If any of this makes you uncomfortable, or you are afraid of heights, try visiting the other parts of Canyonlands National Park and come back to the Maze when you’re more experienced.

Must Visit Locations in The Maze

All overnight trips into the backcountry require permits. If you’re planning to visit in the Spring or Fall, request your permits in advance as demand can exceed the availability.

• Horseshoe Canyon: Most famous for its amazing rock art, Horseshoe Canyon features well-preserved, life-sized figures with intricate designs in the area known as the Great Gallery. It is about a 7 mile hike and can take 4-5 hours with some steep uphill climbing of 780 feet at the end. GPS is hard to follow in the park, so use a map to get to Horseshoe Canyon.

• The Maze Overlook Trail: One of the most popular trails in the Maze, the Maze Overlook Trail is 8 miles long. Plan 3 – 4 hours to navigate this route.

• Land of Standing Rocks: Some of the most unique rock formations in the Maze, including the famous Chimney Rock.

• The Doll House: Hike up to the fabulous Doll House rocks or admire them from the Flint Trail Road.

• Chocolate Drops: Visible from a number of vantage points in the park, but also accessible by the Chocolate Drops Trail which will take you through many canyons on a challenging 9 mile hike.

View a map of the Maze.

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The Green & Colorado Rivers

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The fourth and final district of Canyonlands National Park is unlike any other part. It is the rivers themselves! As you will notice, the former three districts of the park are divided by these rivers. If you’re not much into driving or hiking, you have another option when you visit Canyonlands National Park, take to the water!

Experiencing the Green and Colorado Rivers is a stark contract to the canyons and sunny desert above. You’ll find shade and greenery and life down on the rivers. Upstream from the Confluence (where the Green and Colorado Rivers join) you’ll find still water perfect for canoeing, kayaking, paddle boarding, etc. Below the Confluence, you’ll find a world-class stretch of whitewater that thunders through Cataract Canyon with the joint power of the two rivers.

Need to Know Before Visiting the Rivers

While visiting the Green and Colorado Rivers is an ideal break from the heat of the surrounding canyons, it can be challenging. The reason for this is that the complex contours of the canyons make it difficult to get to the river banks.

• To gain access to the Green River, you’ll need to head to Green River State Park, Ruby Ranch, or Mineral Bottom.

• The typical boat launch locations for the Colorado River are the Potash or Moab ramps.

• There is no direct access near the Confluence or to Cataract Canyon.

Because of these limitations, the best (and far easiest) option to access the rivers is to take a guided adventure where the logistics are handled for you.

Best Ways to Experience the Rivers

Whether you’re looking for an adventure or a relaxing way to see the scenery, the Green and Colorado Rivers offer something for everyone. Here are some of the best ways to experience the area:

• From Moab, take a sunset boat tour on the Colorado River. You’ll see the skies change color as the sun lights up the red rocks around you.

• Jet through the Colorado River on a speed boat. You’ll get to experience the stunning scenery of the river and canyons at high speed and in record time!

• Slow things down and truly take in the scenery on a half-day boat tour through Meander Canyon.

• Experience Dead Horse State Park, the famous Thelma and Louise Point, and jaw dropping scenery via boat.

• Go whitewater rafting on mild class 1 and 2 rapids. You’ll cover over seven miles of fantastic scenery!

• Pack in the adventure by whitewater rafting class 3 and 4 rapids in Westwater Canyon.

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Deciding Between the Districts of Canyonlands National Park

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Each district of Canyonlands National Park offers very distinct characteristics.  Determining where to go depends on what you are looking for. In an ideal world, you’d have the time to visit multiple of the districts, or even better, all of them. But, as that is unlikely, pick the ones that best fit what you’re looking for!

• Island in the Sky is best for sweeping views, roadside viewpoints, and short/easy hiking trails. This also typically makes it the best choice for families.

• The Needles is ideal for the outdoor enthusiast seeking some amazing longer, more remote hiking opportunities.

• The Maze is best for overnight, backcountry hiking, and camping adventures. Perfect for the rugged outdoorsman!

• The Green and Colorado Rivers are obviously best for water activities!

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Where to Stay to Visit Canyonlands National Park

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Each district within Canyonlands National Park has its own entrance. As such, where you decide to stay during your visit to Canyonlands National Park depends on which district(s) of the park you wish to explore.

Base Yourself in Moab, Utah

Generally speaking, Moab is the best home base for visiting Canyonlands National Park. It is the closest to Island in the Sky and not too far from the Needles district. To sweeten the deal, it is also home to Arches National Park.

Distance from Moab to:

• Island in the Sky Visitor Center: 40 minutes / 30 miles
• The Needles Visitor Center: 1 hour 20 minutes / 75 miles
• Hans Flat Ranger Station at The Maze: 2 hours 40 minutes / 135 miles

Best Hotel Options in Moab, Utah

Being the main city for visitors to neighboring National Parks like Canyonlands and Arches, Moab has the widest variety of accommodations. You’ll have your choice of budget options as well as luxury hotels. Here are the best picks:

• Backpacker Budget Option: Lazy Lizard Hostel
• Budget Hotels: Adventure Inn Moab | Rustic Inn
• Mid-Range Hotels: MainStay Suites Moab | The Gonzo Inn
• Luxury Hotels: Hoodoo Moab, Curio Collection by Hilton | Red Cliffs Lodge

Learn more about these hotels and more with the Complete Guide to the Best Hotels in Moab!

Search all hotels in Moab.

Stay in Monticello, Utah

The closest city to the Needles Visitor Center is Monticello, Utah. A small town of 2,000 people, Monticello puts you just under one hour away from the Needles Visitor Center.

Distance from Monticello to:

• The Needles Visitor Center: 1 hour / 50 miles
• Island in the Sky Visitor Center: 1 hour 30 minutes / 85 miles
• Hans Flat Ranger Station at The Maze: 3 hours 40 minutes / 190 miles

Best Hotel Options in Monticello, Utah

Being a smaller city with limited tourism, there are far fewer options for hotels. This also means your level of luxury and budget friendliness are more limited. Check out these quaint accommodations:

• Inn at the Canyons
• Blue Mountain Horsehead Inn
• The Grist Mill Inn

Search all hotels in Monticello.

Settle in at Green River, Utah

Green River sits between Island in the Sky and The Maze and is home to around 1,000 people. It is one of the best options for visiting The Maze in its remote location.

Distance from Green River to:

• Island in the Sky Visitor Center: 1 hour / 60 miles
• Hans Flat Ranger Station at The Maze: 2 hours / 80 miles
• The Needles Visitor Center: 2 hours 10 minutes / 125 miles

Best Hotel Options in Green River, Utah

Getting even smaller than Monticello, Green River has a few key accommodation options to choose from. Take a look at:

• River Terrace Inn
• Skyfall Guestrooms
• Holiday Inn Express & Suites

Search all hotels in Green River.

Consider Hanksville, Utah

Another option for visiting the remote Maze district is staying in Hanksville, Utah. It is a tiny town with a population just over 200 people. This makes hotel options extremely limited (and almost non-existent). The OYO Hotel is a solid option if you want to stay in Hanksville.

Distance from Hanksville to:

• Hans Flat Ranger Station at The Maze: 1 hour 40 minutes / 60 miles
• Island in the Sky Visitor Center: 1 hour 50 minutes / 120 miles
• The Needles Visitor Center: 3 hours 10 minutes / 180 miles

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8 Tips for Visiting Canyonlands National Park

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Being a remote National Park with lots of opportunities to get outside, you will need to know a few things to properly prepare for your visit to Canyonlands National Park.

• Check Current Conditions before you head out.

• You will probably not have cell reception. Download offline maps before you leave town/signal – both for driving and for hiking. I highly recommend the app Maps.me.

• All trails are marked by cairns, or small stacks of rocks, these can be hard to locate. If you cannot find the trail, turn around, do not continue forward. There are some very remote parts of Canyonlands which do not see many visitors, and it can be easy to get lost.

• Weather can change quickly – dress in layers.

• Carry extra water and plenty of snacks when hiking.

• Verify when the sun sets to give yourself ample time to get back to your car. Pack a headlamp or flashlight just in case.

• Permits are required for all overnight backcountry trips.

• Do not take 2 wheel-drive vehicles on 4 wheel-drive roads.

Learn what to pack for a day hike with the Essential Hiking Packing List.

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Discover Other Amazing National Parks

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Now that you have all the information needed to visit Canyonlands National Park, check out some of the other amazing National Parks around the world. You’ll find glaciers, exotic animals, and waterfalls galore!

• Hike through Glacier National Park in the United States for vistas that will leave you breathless
• Admire the most majestic African animals with a safari in Kruger National Park in South Africa
• Explore glaciers and towering mountains in Torres Del Paine National Park in Chile
• Feel the thunder of hundreds of waterfalls at Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia

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Get to Know Moab, Utah

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Often used as the base for visiting Canyonlands National Park, Moab offers a lot of awesome things to do and hotels to stay at. Check out these amazing posts:

• 6 Best Things to Do in Moab + a Bonus Moab Itinerary!
• The Best Time to Visit Moab: A Season by Season Breakdown
• Where to Stay in Moab: Complete Guide to the Best Hotels in Moab
• The Ultimate Moab to Denver Road Trip – and everything in between!

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