Visitor centers at Canyonlands National Park are open year-round, but hours vary. Island in the Sky is open from 9 AM to 4:30 PM, except winter and holidays. Needles Visitor Center is open from 9 AM to 4:30 PM from March to November, closing in winter. Both close on Thanksgiving and Christmas.
At Canyonlands National Park, the entrance fee is $30 for a private vehicle and all its occupants, $25 for a motorcycle and its riders, and $15 per person for those entering on foot or by bicycle, all valid for 7 days. An annual pass is $80. Children under 16 enter free.
From Moab: Hwy 191 N → Hwy 313 W to Island in the Sky (30–40 min).
From Arches NP: Hwy 191 N → Hwy 313 W (approx. 30 min).
From Salt Lake City: I-15 S → I-70 E → Hwy 191 S → Hwy 313 W (approx. 4.5–5 hours).
At Canyonlands, park at visitor centers or campgrounds like Island in the Sky and The Needles, limited to RVs up to 28 feet. No overnight parking at trailheads; motorcycles allowed. Parking fees apply. Limited parking at popular trailheads like Elephant Hill.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Canyonlands National Park, Utah’s largest national park, spans over 337,000 acres of dramatic red rock scenery shaped by the Colorado and Green Rivers. Divided into four districts—Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze, and the rivers—the park offers a wealth of outdoor adventure, geological diversity, and wilderness solitude. Visitors can explore sweeping canyon views, remote slot canyons, sandstone spires, ancient rock art, and one of the darkest night skies in the world. Whether hiking Mesa Arch, rafting downriver, or venturing into The Maze, Canyonlands offers breathtaking natural beauty and unparalleled exploration.
- Area (mi²)
- 527
- Annual visitors
- 636 830
- Established year
- 1964
Top 3 Facts about Canyonlands National Park
The highest elevation is at Cathedral Point, reaching 2,170 meters, while the lowest point is at the Big Drop Rapids section in Cataract Canyon, at 1,128 meters.
The park features four distinct districts, each with its own unique geology and recreational opportunities.
The Colorado and Green Rivers have carved canyons over 2,000 feet deep, showcasing the power of erosion over time.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Night Sky & Astronomy
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Scavenger Hunts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Research trail conditions, closures, and safety alerts—especially for backcountry areas like The Maze.
Pack Appropriately
Wear sturdy hiking shoes, bring water, sun protection, layers, and GPS/maps for remote areas.
Respect Wildlife
Watch for bighorn sheep, coyotes, and snakes. Maintain distance and avoid feeding animals.
Stay Informed
Maze district and backcountry areas are remote. Notify someone of your plans and prepare for rugged terrain.
Seasons
Mild temps, wildflowers, flowing rivers, and fewer crowds. Ideal for hiking and sightseeing.
Long daylight hours and high temperatures. Early hikes recommended; afternoon storms possible.
Warm light, cooler temps, and fewer visitors. Excellent for photography and backpacking.
Quiet, snow-dusted scenery, fewer crowds. Great for solitude and photography; be prepared for snow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Canyonlands National Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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To visit Canyonlands National Park, you should stay in Moab, Utah, which is convenient for the Island in the Sky and Needles districts. For the Maze District, consider staying in Hanksville or Green River, Utah. Monticello is also a good option for the Needles District.
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The Mesa Arch Trail is the best hiking trail for kids, located in the Island in the Sky district. It is a short, 0.6-mile round-trip hike with little elevation gain and features a stunning stone arch. This trail is easy and suitable for younger kids, including toddlers.
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You can bring your dog, but it must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet and is only allowed on paved roads, parking lots, and developed campgrounds. Dogs are not permitted on trails, overlooks, or in the backcountry. Be cautious of hot pavement and ensure your dog’s safety, especially during warm months.
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Yes, the maximum length for RVs and trailers is generally 28 feet, although some sites in The Needles area can accommodate longer vehicles.
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Spend your day in the Island in the Sky district, starting early with a visit to the Visitor Center to refill water, use the restroom, and quickly check out the exhibits. Hike to Mesa Arch, then head to Grand View Point Overlook and other scenic spots like Buck Canyon Overlook, Green River Overlook, and Upheaval Dome. End your day with a sunset at Shafer Canyon Viewpoint or Dead Horse Point, and enjoy some stargazing if you stay late.
