Canyonlands National Park’s Grand Untamed Maze
Hidden away near the town of Moab in Utah is Canyonlands National Park, a park that abounds with unique opportunities. Divided into four districts, each has something new to offer in Utah’s wilderness, from the Island in the Sky to the Maze. The latter is considered one of the most rugged, remote, and challenging sections, rewarding adventurers with once-in-a-lifetime views. Meanwhile, the Island in the Sky is a mesa with scenic routes cutting through canyons and near rivers. Add on tons of sights and opportunities like hiking and camping, and this magnificent reprieve of wilderness is one of the best places to explore in Utah. Read on to learn more about what makes it so special.
About Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands National Park rests in southeastern Utah near Moab, a hub for adventurers in the state. It spans a whopping 337,000 acres and was established in 1964 after years of debate aimed at meeting the demands of both nature preservationists and commercial businesses. The park itself is divided into four districts of desert environment: The Island in the Sky, the Maze, the Needles, and the Green and Colorado Rivers. Each opens up a new set of opportunities, with rugged canyons, mesas, buttes, and more accessible via hiking trails and drives. In recent years, the park has continued to grow in popularity and has seen over 400,000 visitors per year since 2007.
Along with people, animal life also abounds in Canyonlands National Park. There are over 250 species of birds, and many stand-out species, such as bobcats, black bears, tiger salamanders, and even bald eagles. That said, out of the endless opportunities, the Maze and the Island in the Sky stand out, boasting some of the most interesting landforms that are perfect for an outdoor expedition.
The Grand Untamed Maze
The Maze in Canyonlands National Park is one of the most extreme and remote areas in the region. It spans over 30 square miles and is accessible via rugged roads and trails, demanding preparation from even the most experienced explorers. Those who want to reach this section should start from the Hans Flat Ranger Station, after which it is a 3- to 6-hour drive, ideally, in a four-wheel-drive vehicle. Once inside, tourists are largely on their own, as there are no services or potable water sources, and rangers are only available for emergencies from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. That said, those who make it in are in for a treat, as The Maze features twisted canyons, narrow slots, and sculpted mesas. The Dollhouse is the standout, a cluster of tall sandstone spires rising above the canyons.
The Island In The Sky
Offering a similar yet stark contrast to The Maze, The Island in the Sky is another must-visit area for tourists. This section of Canyonlands National Park seems like it is above the ground, as it is a mesa resting on sandstone cliffs that are over 1,000 feet high. To this end, there is a strange feeling of being on and above land at the same time. Even so, this is one of the easiest sections to explore, with tons of scenic drives, trails, and more to see. Most visitors head straight to the cliffs, offering panoramic viewpoints of the river canyons and the desert land below. Those looking for a thrill can head out to one of the many sandstone towers for rock climbing, although be wary of the rock quality, which can deteriorate at times.
Hikers here will adore a plethora of opportunities, such as the Mesa Arch Trail and the White Rim Overlook. The Mesa Arch Trail is a short, easy 0.7-mile loop that leads to the famous arch perched on the cliff’s edge, offering a stunning view of the canyon below. The White Rim Overlook is a slightly longer 1.8-mile out-and-back hike with sweeping views of the White Rim Road and the Colorado River far beneath.
More Things To See And Do In Canyonlands
While these two areas may have their charms, the rest of the park is just as amazing. Throughout the 337,000-acre expanse are plenty of famous formations and viewpoints, from the White Rim Road to the Shafer Canyon. These areas are also ideal for scenic drives, and the White Rim Road is one of the most ideal, spanning 71.2 miles with notable views like the Island in the Sky mesa and Musselman Arch. On the other hand, for a view of cascading water, one can walk along the Colorado and Green Rivers, each with its own twists and turns.
With so much to see and do, many people stay in the park for multiple days. This is made easy thanks to the array of camping opportunities and campsites. Those who want an involved experience can stay at the Island in the Sky campground, which has 12 first-come, first-served sites and a small fee of $15 per night. That said, the campsite only has basic amenities like toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings. The campsites are open year-round, but it is best to visit the park in the fall to take in the scenery with milder weather.
The Charm Of Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands National Park is a place where adventure and solitude meet in Utah’s wild heart. From the twisting canyons of the Maze to the sweeping cliffs of the Island in the Sky, every corner offers something extraordinary. Visitors can hike, camp, and take in views that seem endless, surrounded by rock formations shaped by the passage of time. Whether staying for a day or a weekend, the park’s raw beauty and peaceful atmosphere leave a lasting impression, making Canyonlands one of the most remarkable destinations in the American Southwest.
