Canyonlands National Park, ann unforgettable expanse of red rock canyons, towering mesas, and majestic buttes, is incredible for all outdoor enthusiasts. With its vast and diverse landscape, the park offers a multitude of hiking trails, each promising a unique experience and breathtaking views. Whether you’re an avid hiker seeking a challenging trek or a casual explorer looking for a leisurely stroll, Canyonlands has something to offer for everyone.
1. Mesa Arch Trail
Located in the Island in the Sky district of Canyonlands, the Mesa Arch Trail is a short but unforgettable hike that rewards visitors with one of the park’s most iconic views. This easy half-mile loop trail leads to the edge of a sheer cliff overlooking a vast canyon, framed by the natural sandstone arch.
At sunrise, the arch glows with hues of orange and red, creating a breathtaking scene that photographers flock to capture. The early morning light illuminates the canyon below, casting long shadows and painting the landscape in vibrant colors. Even outside of sunrise hours, Mesa Arch offers stunning vistas of the surrounding terrain, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Canyonlands National Park.
2. White Rim Overlook
Hiking the White Rim Overlook Trail in Canyonlands is what solidified this as one of my absolute favorite National Parks. This is only a 1.8 mile out and back trail with some of the best views in the park. I seen just a few people on this trail, so the hike was easy with only an 160 elevation gain and was so so quiet. At the overlook I felt almost as if I didn’t deserve this view. Just incredible is the best way to describe it.
If hiking it mid day id definitely recommend sunglasses, sun hoodie and a hat as you will be very exposed to the sun.
3. Grand View Point Trail
For panoramic views that stretch as far as the eye can see, the Grand View Point Trail is not to be missed. Situated at the southern tip of the Island in the Sky mesa, this moderately easy trail offers sweeping vistas of the vast canyonlands below.
The 1.8 round-trip hike takes visitors along the edge of the mesa, with breathtaking overlooks at every turn. From towering cliffs to meandering rivers, the scenery along the Grand View Point Trail is simply awe-inspiring. At the end of the trail, hikers are treated to a stunning panoramic view of the confluence of the Green and Colorado Rivers, where the rugged landscape stretches out in all directions.
If you prefer not to make the hike to the viewpoint, you can still enjoy incredible pano views from the parking lot area. However, be aware that the area tends to be more crowded with visitors.
Canyonlands National Park has become one of my favorite parks. Just my biased opinion due to the lesser crowds and incredible landscapes. Canyonlands is definitely underrated as Arches National Park seems to steal all the crowds and glory. Which I am ok with if it means I get to visit this park in complete peace and solitude. Be Safe and Happy Hiking!
