Canyonlands NP drives and hikes

Geologist disagree whether the Upheaval Dome was caused by a salt dome or a meteor. The field geologist we met on the trail gave some pretty convincing evidence for a meteor. We will concede to his superior knowledge.

The drive to Needles after you leave Hwy 191 is impressive. A lush valley surrounded on both sides by buttes and spires. We found out later that a plateau erodes into separate buttes that erode into spires (needles). The 22 miles drive is worth every mile. After visiting the park visitor center we drove to the end and hiked Slickrock Trail (not recommended if it is raining). -L

Canyonlands National Park Gallery

Photo Gallery for Canyonlands National Park

The park has north and south entrances almost 100 miles apart. The north district is called Island in the Sky and the southern district is called The Needles. Staying in Moab we were able to easily access both entrances. There are numerous 4x4 trails the access the park from all directions. The gallery is from several day trips into the park. The variety of landscapes and the wonderful morning and evening light transform hour by hour. Hiking trails lead you along the rim for better views. -L

Canyonlands Drive and Rim Hike

We drove the Canyonlands National Park road to the Grand View and then hiked to Grand View Point.

The elevation chart above shows the hike to the point on the far right. The views from this point are 360 degrees with over 300 degrees of canyon floor before you. Photo gallery coming soon. -L