Canyonlands National Park in One Day: A Complete Guide for 2024
LOOKING FOR THE BEST WAY TO SEE CANYONLANDS NATIONAL PARK IN ONE DAY?
You’re in the right place! We have spent months traveling around Southern Utah, logging some serious hours in Canyonlands. We’ve put together a guide highlighting the best of what Canyonlands has to offer in terms of views, hikes, and other amazing activities that could be seen in one day.
Canyonlands National Park is filled with incredible vantage points that offer breathtaking views of its canyons and rivers. If you want to connect with nature and explore as much as possible by seeing the park on foot, a day in Canyonlands will be amazing. On the other hand, if you prefer to see the sites from the comfort of your car – or the excitement of your Jeep! – doing so can be just as scenic and fulfilling.
Here’s a rundown of the highlights you don’t want to miss while planning one perfect day in Canyonlands National Park.
Canyonlands National Park in One Day: Things to Do
If you only have one day to see Canyonlands National Park, it’s best to come prepared with an itinerary so that you can make the most of your short time in this vast park. Here are our recommended excursions and activities.
Jeep Tour
▶BOOK Backcountry Canyonlands 4×4 Adventure from Moab
⭐ RATING: 5 out of 5 | 🕑 TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours
Canyonlands National Park is a unique park with multiple different areas to explore and different ways to explore it. One of the best ways to explore the park is by taking a Backcountry Canyonlands 4×4 Adventure from Moab. This tour will take you down two of the most popular off-road trails in the Canyonlands National Park.
You will get to explore the Island in the Sky district and its beautiful scenery, which includes the beautiful Shafer Trail and the White Rim Road. If you enjoy exploring the 4×4 roads in Canyonlands, you can check out Poison Spider Mesa, which is just outside the park.
Both are great areas to explore. We loved exploring these roads in our jeep on our last visit to Moab. The scenery is amazing!
Many people think the best way to explore the park is by traveling the 4×4 roads. We agree and love traveling through Canyonlands’ off-road trails. Doing so through an organized Jeep tour helps ensure that you make the most of your short time in the park.
This highly-rated tour will give you the opportunity to explore the Canyonlands backcountry with experienced guides to take you to the best stops. You won’t need to figure out where you should and should not go because the friendly guides will have it all planned out.
The Canyonlands 4×4 Adventure includes:
✔ Experienced, knowledgeable guide
✔ Ice water and snacks
✔ Parking is available at the office
✔ Excellent adventure and photo trip
“The guide was very knowledgeable and was very agreeable to getting us in the best positions to see all the sights and formations but also to stay safe. It is an amazing area with more vistas than it is possible to appreciate.”
– Frederick (See more reviews)
▶BOOK Backcountry Canyonlands 4×4 Adventure from Moab
Mesa Arch Hike
Are you looking for a fun and adventurous way to explore Canyonlands National Park? A hike up Mesa Arch is one of the best ways to see the park’s incredible arches up close. Mesa Arch in Canyonlands is an iconic natural wonder that captivates hikers and adventurers alike.
If you are planning to visit Mesa Arch in Canyonlands in Utah, you are in for an unforgettable experience. Whether you are a hiker, sightseer, or photographer, you will be rewarded with a captivating landscape and stunning views that will remain with you long after your trip.
Located in the Island in the Sky mesa district, this arch is perched atop a tall mesa, offering sweeping views of the surrounding canyon and its vivid reds, oranges, and purples. This elegant stone structure spans 50 feet across the top of a 500-foot vertical cliff and is classified as a “pothole arch.” This name comes from the way it was formed by surface water that pooled on the sandstone behind it, slowly eroding the rock.
The Mesa Arch hike is perfect for all skill levels, offering both a physically and visually stimulating experience. No special equipment is required.
This hike is one of the best things to do for families with kids who want to experience the beauty of Canyonlands National Park. This half-mile loop trail is an easy trail and is suitable for kids who can walk, although you may need to carry younger kids for a portion of the trail. Even 2- to 3-year-olds should be able to do this easy hike by themselves, although it may take a bit longer for their little feet.
Mesa Arch Hike in Canyonlands Overview
Distance: 0.6 miles
Hiking Time: 30 minutes
Elevation Gain: 88 Feet
Difficulty: Easy
Permits Needed: None
Fees: Entrance fee to Canyonlands National Park
Restrooms: Pit Toilets at the Trailhead
Trailhead GPS: 38.389174, -109.868150
Summary of the Trail
The hike itself is a very short walk, taking only 10-15 minutes each way. You can choose to walk the loop in either direction, but many hikers recommend going counterclockwise for the most impressive views.
The trail consists of a combination of dirt and slick rock, with a few steps along the way, so it’s a good reason to wear closed-toe shoes (although hiking sandals or sturdy flip-flops will also work).
While walking the trail, you’ll be surrounded by a breathtaking view of Canyonlands. To the east, you’ll catch a glimpse of the Washing Woman Arch, while the prominent white rim of the Colorado River’s stunning canyons stretches out below the mesa. In the distance, the La Sal Mountains rise up, their snow-capped peaks reaching toward the sky.
Take it all in as you make your way to the arch itself, where you may run into a bit of a wait. This popular area can get quite busy with other hikers and photographers looking to capture the perfect shot. But don’t let that discourage you, as the views from Mesa Arch are well worth the wait.
Once you reach the arch, be aware that there are sharp drops into the canyon, so it’s important to hold on to your kids for their safety. The area is not fenced, so be sure to keep a close eye on your little ones.
No matter what time of day you visit, the views from Mesa Arch are truly breathtaking. But if you’re lucky enough to be there at the Mesa Arch at sunrise or sunset, you’ll be in for an especially beautiful show.
After enjoying the views from the arch, simply complete the loop to return to the trailhead.
Grand View Point and Walk
Along the southern end of the Island in the Sky scenic drive, you’ll find Grand View Point. This spot offers a spectacular panoramic view of the red rocks on the Colorado Plateau.
It’s a great vantage point to see miles of corrugated canyons as well as some of the highlights of what Canyonlands has to offer. White Rim road can be spotted, as well as portions of The Maze and The Needles.
A short, paved sidewalk leads to a spectacular viewpoint. From there, you can hike an additional mile to a second viewpoint. Maybe you’ll be lucky enough to catch a Ranger here, as Grand View Point Overlook is a popular place for the Rangers to present geology talks from spring to fall each year.
Grand View Point Walk Overview
- Roundtrip Distance: 1.8 mi (2.9 km)
- Time: 1.5 hrs
- Elevation Change: 73 ft (22 m)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Hike Description: A stunning out-and-back trail, this walk showcases spectacular panoramic views as it follows the canyon’s edge.
- Accessibility: This trail can be rough, and uneven, and requires walking up and down a rocky hill and stone steps. It is not accessible to wheelchairs. In winter, there may be snow or icy conditions; traction devices are recommended.
Buck Canyon Overlook
Continuing your scenic drive through the Island in the Sky district of Canyonlands, just off Grand View Point Road, you’ll find Buck Canyon Overlook. It’s not the most popular overlook in the area (you might bypass major crowds here), but you can still expect a stream of spectators. Keep in mind, parking is limited at this location.
There’s a paved pathway from the parking area to the overlook. Sweeping vistas to the west and across the Colorado River canyon will take your breath away as you gaze down into the Buck Canyon area. It’s quite a sight to see the La Sal Mountains against the red rocks of the canyon.
Green River Overlook
Take a short walk (less than a quarter mile out and back) from the parking lot, along a paved path to reach this southwest-facing viewpoint. This is one of the best spots to view the Green River, one of two rivers that cut through Canyonlands National Park.
If possible, plan to spend the last moments of daylight here, as it’s one of the best places at Island in the Sky to watch the sunset.
Upheaval Dome Hike
Upheaval Dome consists of a bull’s eye of concentric deformed layers dipping away from the middle of the dome. It’s a true wonder and sight to see.
If you’re hoping to take in the views of Upheaval Dome, there are two options to choose from. Both hikes are notably steep, but provide a truly remarkable view of the colorful geologic feature that is Upheaval Dome.
Early on in the trail to the first Upheaval Dome overlook, the path crosses with the Syncline Trail. Make sure you don’t veer off on that trail, as it is very challenging and will rob you of the best view of Upheaval Dome altogether.
Upheaval Dome first overlook
- Roundtrip Distance: 0.6 mi (1 km)
- Time: 1 hr
- Elevation Change: 115 ft (35m)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Hike Description: A short but steep trail leads to a clear view into Upheaval Dome. Exhibits are placed at the end of the trail to educate hikers about this unique geologic feature.
Upheaval Dome second overlook
- Roundtrip Distance: 1.2 mi (1.9 km)
- Time: 1.5 hrs
- Elevation Change: 114 ft (35m)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Hike Description: This trail splits off from the first overlook trail, following cairns to more views of Upheaval Dome and Upheaval Canyon.
- Accessibility: This trail can be rough, and uneven, and requires walking up and down a rocky hill and stone steps. It is not accessible to wheelchairs. In winter, there may be snow or icy conditions; traction devices are recommended.
How many days should I spend in Canyonlands National Park?
You can cover most of the highlights of the Island in the Sky District all in one day at Canyonlands National Park. But if you’re interested in experiencing all the park has to offer, including the off-road trails below the rim, we recommend at least two days.
Getting Around Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands National Park is a choose-your-own-adventure kind of experience. Because the park is segmented into different areas, a vehicle that can handle the terrain is your best bet.
The park can also be explored via walking and hiking-specific trails. Another way to get up close and personal with Canyonlands is to explore it on a mountain bike.
Canyonlands National Park in Two Days
With two days in Canyonlands National Park, we would recommend you spend the first day taking your time through the Island in the Sky scenic drive. Stop at the outlook points and really take in the scenery. Enjoy the hikes along the way to really experience the landscape.
On day two, explore all Canyonlands has to offer below the rim on a Canyonlands 4×4 Adventure Tour! Or sneak over for a quick look at Dead Horse Point State Park since they are so close together. If that’s not your speed, consider experiencing the park in a different way on a rafting trip down the Colorado river.
Arches National Park and Canyonlands in One Day
One day in Arches and Canyonlands will require you to make the most of your time. Capitalize on Arches and Canyonlands scenic drives to take in the highlights of the parks. Make sure you catch Balanced Rock, Delicate Arch hike, Devil’s Garden area, Landscape Arch, Sand Dune Arch, the Windows Section, and Park Avenue’s incredible viewpoint.
We would recommend planning on spending more time in Arches than in Canyonlands. Canyonlands is cool, but Arches is better.
Can You See Arches National Park and Canyonlands in One Day?
Both Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park offer much more than a day’s worth of sights, but it is possible to see some of the highlights of both parks in just one day.
If you are trying to see both parks in one day, spend less time in Canyonlands National Park. Drive to the popular overlooks or as close as you can get to them. You could then hike the shorter trails like Mesa Arch, and view the overlooks. Canyonlands National Park is not as popular as Arches, and you would probably want to spend more of the day in Arches than in Canyonlands.
Plan for stops along the way, hike the Mesa Arch trail, and take in the great views along the Grand View Point Trail, Buck Canyon, Green River Overlook, and Upheaval Dome.
The Canyonlands Island in the Sky Visitor Center is also a good resource for other insights into all the park offers. You may stop here in the beginning, and the rangers will help give you tips on what to see in one day.
For your time in Arches, we recommend driving the scenic road and then hiking to Delicate Arch.
About Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands National Park is one of Western USA’s most fascinating desert landscapes. Filled with endless red rock canyons and buttes shaped by the beautiful Colorado River, this park is a must-see attraction for geologists, nature enthusiasts, and anyone eager to see one of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in all of America.
Getting to Canyonlands National Park
If you’re planning on self-driving for your day trip to Canyonlands National Park, check out these directions to the park from some of the surrounding cities and towns.
📍Moab to Canyonlands National Park
Follow the Colorado River from the beautiful town of Moab and drive 40 minutes to the stunning Canyonlands National Park. You’ll follow US-191 N, then turn left at Moab Giants to take UT-313 W (Grand View Point Road) all the way to the park. The journey is dotted with magnificent desert views.
📍Salt Lake City to Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands National Park is 4 hours southeast of Salt Lake City. I-15 S and US-6 E will carry you the 242 miles from Salt Lake City to Canyonlands National Park.
📍Denver to Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands National Park is a little over 5.5 hours southwest of Denver. I-70 W will carry you the 363 miles from Denver to Canyonlands National Park.
📍Las Vegas to Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands National Park is just shy of 7 hours northeast of Las Vegas. I-15 N and I-70 E will carry you the 465 miles from Las Vegas to Canyonlands National Park.
Where to Stay Near Canyonlands
The Moab area is your best option for lodging near Canyonlands. The hotels in downtown Moab offer close access to many amazing things to do, which is generally why we prefer staying right in town. Camping in the park is also available, generally on a first-come, first-served basis.
As an added bonus to staying in Moab, you’ll be close to some amazing hikes that are located outside of the park. The hike to Jeep Arch and Corona Arch are two awesome hikes with a view close to Moab.
Campgrounds in the Park
Island in the Sky Campground (Willow Flat) has 12 sites, filled on a first-come, first-served basis. And they fill up fast during the peak season!
The campground is open year-round, and the nightly fee is $15/site. There are toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings in the campground. There is no water at the campground. You can get drinking water outside the visitor center spring through fall.
The Needles Campground has 26 individual sites, plus 3 group sites in different locations around The Needles district. You can reserve some individual sites during peak season. At other times of the year, individual sites are first-come, first-served.
The nightly fee for an individual site is $20. You can also reserve group sites for nights between mid-March and mid-November. There are toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings in the campground.
There are also some amazing places for dispersed camping near Canyonlands National Park if you’re looking to explore some other places in the area.
Hotels Near the Park
Moab is a great place to stay near Canyonlands National Park. Here are a few of our favorite Moab hotels.
Top Budget-Friendly Hotel: Sleep Inn & Suites Moab
Sleep Inn & Suites Moab is a great budget-friendly family hotel in Moab. It’s located close to Rotary Park and Moab Recreation and Aquatic Center. The rooms are clean, and feature flat-screen TVs with cable channels, along with refrigerators and microwaves.
The hotel provides free continental breakfast, a roundtrip airport shuttle, and features a convenience store.
Highlights include free self-parking and continental breakfast, a convenience store, a seasonal outdoor pool, and a hot tub. Free in-room WiFi and laundry facilities are available, along with a 24-hour gym.
⭐ Sleep Inn & Suites Moab Review (9.2/10)
Wonderful clean hotel, great location. Breakfast was amazing. Staff was friendly and when our heater did not work they responded quickly to our call and got us a new room right away. Pool was closed for the season but hot tub was still open. (Expedia Review)
Top Mid-Range Family Hotel: Hyatt Place Moab
Hyatt Place Moab tops our list in the mid-range category of family hotels in Moab. It’s located close to Rotary Park and Lions Park. Rooms feature premium bedding and laptop-friendly workspaces. Also, flat-screen TVs with premium channels and refrigerators.
Highlights include free self-parking, a free breakfast buffet, and a coffee shop/cafe. A seasonal outdoor pool and a kids’ pool, equipped with free cabanas and sun loungers. We loved swimming in the pool after a fun day of adventures. Free in-room WiFi and, most importantly for the kids, a playground.
⭐ Hyatt Place Moab Review (9.2/10)
My experience at Hyatt Place was excellent! The staff was so friendly and they were so accepting of not just myself and family but also my dog. Puppy treats were provided and in full view at the counter. Each morning, the staff provided an excellent hot breakfast. And the breakfast was different each morning. Was absolutely worth the money and I would stay again with no hesitation at all! (Expedia Review)
Top Luxury Family Hotel: Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Moab
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Moab is our recommendation if you’re looking for luxury family hotels in Moab. This one will be a hit with the kids right away, as it features not only traditional pools, but also four hot tubs and, to top it all off, a mini water park.
The rooms are clean and feature a smart TV (NetFlix and other premium channels included), microwave, and refrigerator. Highlights include many free extras, including self-parking, breakfast buffet, in-room WiFi, and infant beds by request. Laundry services are also available, for a fee.
▶BOOK Fairfield Inn & Suites By Marriott Moab
⭐ Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Moab Review (9.2/10)
Excellent and friendly staff. Neat and clean hotel. (Expedia Review)
▶BOOK Fairfield Inn & Suites By Marriott Moab
What to Bring to Canyonlands National Park
If you’re planning to hike in Canyonlands, pack loose-fitting, light-colored clothing, extra layers for the change in temperature, and, of course, don’t forget a hat. Remember always to keep a camera close to capture all of the picturesque views.
Keep in mind that the summer heat in Canyonlands can be intense, with temperatures often reaching 100–115°F (38–46°C). Bring plenty of water and sunblock, and plan any hikes for either the morning or evening hours in order to avoid the heat of midday.
Tips for Visiting Canyonlands National Park
If you’re planning a visit to Canyonlands National Park, here are some tips that can help you make the most of your trip.
Plan ahead
Make sure you know exactly where you want to go and what you want to see before you arrive at the park. If you’re hoping to catch the sunrise, arrive early, at least 45 minutes before sunrise, to give yourself some time to find the perfect spot.
Dress in layers
The temperature can vary significantly between the early morning and the afternoon, so it’s important to dress in layers. This will allow you to adjust easily to the changing weather and stay comfortable throughout the day.
Bring a camera
The sights and scenes you will experience throughout Canyonlands are truly breathtaking and well worth capturing on film. Make sure to bring a camera with you so you can capture the memories forever.
Expect crowds
It’s likely that you’ll encounter large crowds at popular viewpoints throughout the park, especially during peak tourist season and at sunrise and sunset. Don’t worry if you aren’t able to make it to a specific park highlight, there are so many beautiful places throughout the park where you can capture the best views from a different perspective.
FAQ: Canyonlands National Park in One Day
Can you do Canyonlands in one day?
Yes! A great way to explore Canyonlands in a single day is to take a 4×4 tour. Leave it to the experts to show you the highlights of the park and a good time! Driving Canyonlands National Park in one day is also possible on your own, via the scenic drive through the Islands in the Sky District.
What should I do with one day in Canyonlands National Park?
Either take a guided Jeep tour through the park or explore it on your own! Make sure not to miss the hike to Mesa Arch. And be sure to take in the incredible views from a variety of vantage points, including Grand View Point, Buck Canyon, Green River Overlook, and Upheaval Dome.
How much time do you need to see Canyonlands National Park?
We recommend at least two days to experience the full bounty of Canyonlands National Park. If you’ve got the time, enjoy the serene sights of Island in the Sky one day and then explore the backcountry below the rim the next day. If you’re on a tighter schedule, it is possible to see the highlights, driving Canyonlands National Park in one day.
Is One Day Enough in Arches?
Arches National Park offers much more than a day’s worth of sights, but it is possible to see some of the highlights in just one day.
Is Canyonlands worth visiting?
Yes! Canyonlands is a gem of a national park. It offers a great opportunity to explore nature and have a great time with those you’re traveling with.
Which part of Canyonlands is Best?
The Islands in the Sky District of Canyonlands is the most accessible part of the park, and the majority would say it is the best part of the park. This portion of the park offers ample opportunity for hiking and breathtaking views.
Should I Visit Arches or Canyonlands?
Arches and Canyonlands are both beautiful places to explore. You can’t lose with either option! However, for the majority of people, Arches is better. It is not uncommon for Arches to close, and those who could not get in will then go over to Canyonlands.
Conclusion: Canyonlands National Park in One Day
Exploring Canyonlands National Park in one day will be a journey to remember. A hike to Mesa Arch and the views along the scenic drive through the Island in the Sky District will stay with you long after you leave the park.
Though there are countless sights to see and only so much time available, enjoy every moment of your Canyonlands adventure. And whatever highlights of the park you might have to forgo this time, will be waiting for your next visit!
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