Island in the Sky Canyonlands: A Complete Visitor’s Guide for 2024
PLANNING A VISIT TO ISLAND IN THE SKY?
You’re in the right place! We have spent months traveling around Southern Utah, logging some serious hours in Island in the Sky. Pulling from our experience and insight, we’ve put together a guide with helpful tips and details to help you best enjoy what we believe to be the best of what Island in the Sky offers.
We love that you can experience Island in the Sky in so many different ways. You can enjoy a short hike and stunning views on a variety of lsland in the Sky Canyonlands trails. Or take in the majesty of the park from the comfort of your own vehicle, as you make your way through the Island in the Sky scenic drive.
It’s your adventure, so experience Canyonlands’ Island in the Sky the way that best works for you.
What is Island in the Sky Canyonlands?
Island in the Sky is a portion of Canyonlands National Park in Utah. This portion of the park is easily accessible and offers a variety of experiences.
Directions from Green River
A little over an hour south of Green River is Island in the Sky. You will take I-70 E initially and then jump onto US-191 S, which will lead you to the Island in the Sky Visitor Center.
Directions from Moab
The drive from Moab to Island in the Sky in Canyonlands National Park is about 40 minutes. You will take US-191 N from Moab and move to UT-313 W. This leads to Island in the Sky Scenic Drive.
Admission Fees and Visiting Information for Canyonlands National Park
Admission Fees
The admission into Canyonlands National Park is $30/vehicle (including up to 15 occupants). This pass is good for 7 days.
Motorcycles are charged $25. If you’re looking to explore the park without a motorized vehicle, hiking or biking, for instance, the fee is $15/person (children 15 and under are admitted free).
Park Conditions
One of the best tips we can offer those planning to travel through national parks in Utah is to plan ahead. Part of planning ahead is staying aware of current park conditions. The status of various roads and/or trails are vital to your park experience.
Canyonlands National Park in Utah keeps visitors up to date on current park conditions on their website. Be sure to check the Canyonlands Alerts & Conditions page leading up to your visit. This helps you be aware of any closures throughout the park.
Things to Do in Island in the Sky Canyonlands
Canyonlands Visitor Center – Island in the Sky
The Island in the Sky Visitor Center is open year-round, 7 days a week. Water is available here year-round as well. Take a look at the exhibits, pick up any backcountry permits you might need, or even chat with a park ranger for a bit. This is also a great spot for a picnic or to connect with the world outside the park, via the wireless internet.
When checking out the Island in the Sky Visitor Center, be sure not to miss the Canyonlands Natural History Association (CNHA) bookstore. The CNHA is a nonprofit organization assisting the National Park Service. It works to enhance visitors’ understanding and appreciation of public lands.
If you’re interested in learning more, check out the educational materials for sale at that location. 20% of the proceeds from the bookstore go to the National Park Service and other federal land management agencies.
Junior Ranger Program
Make your journey through Canyonlands National Park that much more fun by participating in the Canyonlands Junior Ranger Program. Make your way to the Sky Visitor Center and let your kids pick up the Junior Ranger booklet there. You can also download it from the park’s website. This is one of our favorite things to do in Moab with kids.
With their guidebooks in hand, your kids will explore the park on a whole new level.
Activities will get them considering safety on their journeys throughout the park, leading them to explore plant life and even consider how the weather affects their experience in Canyonlands NP. Our kids love collecting badges from all of the national parks we visit.
Canyonlands National Park Tours
If you only have a day to spend in Canyonlands National Park, it is a great idea to go on a guided tour. A tour guide knows the best parts of the park, which makes it easy for you to see the highlights of the park in a short amount of time.
- Canyonlands National Park Self-Driving Tour: This tour lets you explore the park on your own while still getting the benefit of a pre-planned route of the Island in the Sky highlights.
- Canyonlands National Park Half-Day Tour from Moab: Get up close and personal with the backcountry on this guided 4WD adventure through Canyonlands.
- Canyonlands National Park Needles District by 4×4: See the wonders of Canyonlands’ Needle District on this guided 4×4 adventure.
- Sunset Scenic Tour of Canyonlands National Park & Dead Horse Pt: See some of the best of what Canyonlands and Dead Horse Point State Park have to offer on this non-bumpy, scenic sunset tour.
- Moab Combo: Colorado River Rafting and Canyonlands 4×4 Tour: Get the best of both worlds on this 4×4 and river rafting combo tour.
- Edge of Canyonlands Helicopter Air Tour: Take your exploration of Canyonlands’ Island in the Sky to new heights on this helicopter tour.
Scenic Drive in Island in the Sky
Driving the White Rim Road
- Difficulty Rating: 3 out of 10
- Miles: 100
- Route Type: Loop
- Time to Complete: 30 to 40 hours
The entirety of the White Rim Road is 100 miles, and it winds all over through Canyonlands National Park. The trail is rugged and very scenic. We drove to the iconic Muscleman Arch and then continued to a few more canyons before turning back.
We had the best time exploring Canyonlands from the off-road trails, so if you have the chance, give them a try. If your vehicle isn’t equipped for this type of terrain, you can rent a Jeep for the day at Adventure Moab.
There are a couple of things to keep in mind when planning to drive the White Rim Road. Even if you are only doing a small section of the White Rim Road, you need to get a permit first. A permit can be obtained at 8 am the day before from recreation.gov, or you can go into the ranger station or visitor center the morning of your trip.
If you are going to be doing the entire trip and staying overnight, an overnight permit is required and must be obtained before you go.
Also note that RZRs or any OHV are not allowed in Canyonlands National Park, even if it is street-legal.
If you’re not keen on navigating these trails behind the wheel, or would rather just sit back and enjoy the ride, consider taking the Canyonlands National Park Half-Day Tour from Moab.
Driving the Shafer Trail and Potash Road
- Difficulty Rating: 2 out of 10
- Miles: 18
- Route Type: Loop or Out and Back
- Time to Complete: 2 to 5 hours
- Trail Length: 19 miles one way
The Shafer Trail is a beautiful trail that goes from Moab through Canyonlands National Park. A drive down this trail is one of our favorite things to do in Moab. You do not need a permit for this trail. You can get there by driving the Potash Road. This passes great petroglyphs, dinosaur tracks, and the Poison Spider Mesa 4×4 Trail.
The Shafer Trail is also the back way to get into Canyonlands National Park. If you are in the area and it is busy, and you have a vehicle that is four-wheel drive, you might want to try getting into the Canyonland National Park by driving the Shafer Trail. Save time and bypass the entrance station, which can easily take an hour or more to get to.
If you start in the park, the trail is to the left shortly after the entrance station. This is the route we took on the Shafer Trail, and we had a blast.
Best known for the steep switchbacks at the beginning of the trail in Canyonlands, they are fun to drive up and down. It’s definitely one of the best things to do in Canyonlands National Park.
The Shafer Trail is not overly challenging, and a stock 4×4 SUV can drive it fairly easily. We rented a jeep from Moab Adventure Center because we could not take our RZR through the park where we wanted to explore.
Our family had a great time in our rental. We would highly recommend a jeep rental if you don’t have your own 4×4 vehicle.
Island in the Sky Overlooks
Shafer Canyon Overlook
Shafer Canyon Overlook is located just off Grand View Point Road, near the Visitor Center. You won’t have to walk far from the parking lot to reach this viewpoint. The overlook offers you a wondrous view down into Shafer Canyon and the beautiful sights of the La Sal Mountains in the distance.
Truly offering one of the best Island in the Sky Canyonlands mountain range views, you can also spot the switchbacks of the Shafer Trail from this perspective.
If you’re traveling with young kids, keep in mind that the Shafer Canyon Overlook area is unfenced. Use caution and stay together while enjoying the views at this specific location.
Candlestick Tower Overlook
Candlestick Tower Overlook isn’t much more than a small pull-out space along Grand View Point Road, but the view in the distance is quite spectacular. A 450-foot tall, dark red and brown sandstone feature, reminiscent of a group of candles is impossible to miss.
Sure to impress the kids, Candlestick Tower is one of the most imaginative and entertaining rock formations throughout Island in the Sky.
White Rim Overlook
White Rim Overlook offers striking views of the La Sal Mountains and the Colorado River. This is also a great alternative to the popular Grand View Point, offering a similar view of Monument Basin without as many crowds.
Orange Cliffs Overlook
Orange Cliffs Overlook is located near the end of the main park road. The panoramic view of the orange sandstone cliffs across the canyon of the Green River is dazzling. You can also spot Island in the Sky’s sister Canyonlands district, The Maze, in the southward distance.
Orange Cliffs Overlook is also a comparable alternative if parking at Grand View Point is full.
Grand View Point Overlook
At the end of the drive through the Island in the Sky District of Canyonlands National Park, you’ll find Grand View Point Overlook. By this time, you will have seen many different viewpoints, but make sure you don’t miss this one.
Remarkable views of the Colorado River and Green River Canyons await you. Grand View Point Overlook lives up to its name, offering such a stark, clear, and grand vantage point over so much landscape. It feels as if you can see for miles.
Green River Overlook
Take a short walk (less than a ¼ 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.
Best hikes in Canyonlands Island in the Sky
Mesa Arch
Visiting Mesa Arch is an unforgettable experience. The arch is perched atop a tall mesa, offering sweeping views of the surrounding canyon and its vivid reds, oranges, and purples. Mesa Arch is notably one of the best Canyonlands Island in the Sky hikes.
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 trail is perfect for all skill levels, offering both a physically and visually stimulating experience. No special equipment is required making it one of the best Moab hiking trails.
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).
Once you reach the arch, you’ll be treated to staggering views of the surrounding landscape, including the towering red rock cliffs and vast desert canyons. The iconic panoramic views carved over millions of years are quite a sight to see.
Enjoy the majestic beauty and awe of this amazing arch nestled deep within the canyons.
Grand View Point
Along the southern end of the Island in the Sky scenic drive, you’ll find Grand View Point in Canyonlands. 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, Grand View Point is a popular place for them to present geology talks during the spring-fall season.
Murphy Loop Trail
A full-day hike, the Murphy Loop trail is one of the more strenuous Canyonlands hikes in Island in the Sky. Nearly 11 miles and an estimated 5-7 hour duration, this hike offers outstanding views from atop the Murphy Hogback and White Rim Road.
After descending the switchbacks, most hikers travel the loop counter-clockwise: crossing Murphy Hogback with outstanding views, descending the unpaved White Rim Road for a mile, then making their way back up through striking geologic layers to the switchbacks again.
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. This is not the most popular overlook in the area. You might bypass major crowds here, but 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 are to be had, gazing down into the Buck Canyon area. It’s quite a sight to compare the La Sal Mountains against the red rocks of the canyon.
Gooseberry Trail
The Gooseberry Trail is renowned for being the steepest trail in Canyonlands National Park. The first mile descends over 1,000 feet, between two canyon walls. Keep in mind, visitors will climb the 1,000 feet back up at the conclusion of the hike.
The next portion of the trail leads to a dry river bed, which is more easily maneuvered through. The trail ends on White Rim, with Gooseberry Canyon nearby. Though strenuous, Gooseberry Trail offers gorgeous views of White Rim, especially during the initial descent.
Upheaval Dome
Upheaval Dome consists of a bull’s eye of concentric deformed layers dipping away from the dome, in the middle. 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.
Although the hike is steep, it isn’t too bad. I hiked this with my daughter in about 30 minutes and had a great time. We even saw a large herd of bighorn sheep playing on the rocks just off the side of the trail. It ended up being one of her favorite parts of our visit to Canyonlands.
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.
Whale Rock
Whale Rock Trail is another fun option to consider if exploring Canyonlands with kids. Let their imaginations run wild as they take in the shape of the long sandstone dome. If a giant whale comes to mind, walk the trail that runs along its side, and then climb from the tail up to the blowhole.
This trail leads up the side of a sandstone dome, ending with broad views of the Island in the Sky. A great spot for kids who like to climb and explore on the rocks. But be sure everyone wears proper shoes with traction and stays mindful of steep drop-offs.
Aztec Butte
Aztec Butte offers visitors the chance to capture a moment in time long passed. Indigenous people once stored goods and medicines in rock structures, built into alcoves at Aztec Butte. One of the most unique and fragile sights in Island in the Sky, this area is for viewing only. The aging structures cannot be entered or touched.
The hike to Aztec Butte and back is just shy of 2 miles. The hike is considered moderate, as the trail can be rough and uneven in spots, requiring scrambling up slickrock and ledges.
White Rim Overlook
The walk along the White Rim Overlook trail and back is just shy of 2 miles. Considered an easy route, it’s quite an experience to feel like you’re walking along the rim of the canyon. Another great place to view the La Sal Mountains and the Colorado River.
Camping in Canyonlands Island in the Sky
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.
Other Parts of Canyonlands National Park
The Maze
The roads and trails surrounding and running through The Maze are very difficult to maneuver, making it the least accessible district of Canyonlands. The requirement of longer and more specialized travel makes the area much more remote than the easily traveled Island in the Sky.
Due to the remoteness of The Maze, visitors must be prepared to fend for themselves, equipped with the tools for self-sufficiency and the proper equipment or gear for self-rescue. For those up for the challenge, this district of Canyonlands National Park is expansive and offers great opportunities for exploring.
The Needles
The Needles, named after the plentiful colorful spires of Cedar Mesa sandstone shooting up toward the sky throughout the area, is the third district of Canyonlands National Park.
Located in the southeast corner of the park, The Needles attracts hikers and off-roaders alike. Highlights of this district include Tower Ruin, Confluence Overlook, Elephant Hill, the Joint Trail, and Chesler Park.
Where to Stay Near Canyonlands National Park
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 hotels near Canyonlands.
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
Best Time to Visit Canyonlands National Park
Spring and fall are the best times to visit Utah national parks like Canyonlands National Park and Arches National Park. The mild weather during these seasons will offer you a more comfortable experience, not to mention you will bypass a lot of summer crowds.
How Much Time to Spend in Canyonlands National Park
We recommend spending two to three days in Canyonlands National Park. On the first day, we recommend visiting some of the viewpoints and hikes in the park. Upheaval Dome, Grand View Point, and Mesa Arch were our favorite hikes.
On your second day, we recommend driving down on the White Rim Road and Shafer Trail. You will need a vehicle with 4×4 capabilities to drive this road, and you will need to get a permit.
If you have a third day to spend in the park, we recommend exploring either the Needles or Maze section of the park.
One-Day Itinerary for Canyonlands
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 views from a variety of vantage points, including Grand View Point, Buck Canyon, Green River Overlook, and Upheaval Dome.
FAQ: Island in the Sky Canyonlands
How long does it take to drive through Canyonlands Island in the Sky?
The scenic drive through Canyonlands Island in the Sky is 34 miles roundtrip. That said, the time you spend in the park is based on your particular interest. You could drive straight through, only taking in views from your vehicle within a couple of hours.
But if you’re interested in exploring Canyonlands through the overlooks and hikes, it could take the better part of a day.
Which is better – Island in the Sky or Needles?
Island in the Sky is the most accessible district of Canyonlands for all travelers and offers a great general experience of the national park. Those looking for longer hikes and more of a backcountry feel might better enjoy the Needles.
How long is Island in the Sky scenic drive?
If you are driving straight through, the Island in the Sky scenic drive can be completed within about two hours. The duration will depend on how many stops you make and the time you spend at each location.
What is Island in the Sky known for?
Island in the Sky is known for striking rock formations and remarkable landscapes. It’s renowned for hiking and 4×4 off-roading trails.
How much time should I spend in Canyonlands Island in the Sky?
We recommend at least two days to experience the full bounty of Canyonlands National Park, including Island in the Sky. If you only have one day in Canyonlands, we recommend either a guided jeep tour of the White Rim Road or visiting the viewpoints and hiking.
Conclusion: Island in the Sky Canyonlands
Exploring Island in the Sky Canyonlands will be a journey to remember. A hike to Mesa Arch and the views along the scenic drive throughout the district will stay with you long after you leave the park. Enjoy every moment of your Island in the Sky adventure.
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