Canyonlands National Park: Island In The Sky

Canyonlands National Park is also in Moab and close to Arches National Park. We were easily able to experience the very accessible Island in the Sky District of Canyonlands in the same day as Dead Horse Point State Park. 

Island In The Sky VC

We began at the Island In The Sky Vistor Center. Not to be missed here, just across the road, is an awesome overlook with beautiful views. You’ll notice Shafer Trail Road below and if you are adventurous/skilled enough, with a high clearance 4WD, you can drive this scary switchback encompassing thriller. 

Green River Overlook 

Green River Overlook allows you to see the Green River and the basin it has carved. Look for White Rim Road and The Maze district. There’s an info graphic at the platform. This overlook is easily accessible from the parking lot. One of the best far reaching views makes this a popular stop. 

Grand View Point Overlook 

This overlook is definitely grand. This spectacular view is exciting as you notice all of the spires in Monument Basin, including the tallest, Totem Pole, at 305 feet. This basin was carved by the 2nd River running through Canyonlands, the Colorado River. Take a 300 ft paved path from parking lot, with option of a 1 mile extension for closer views. 

Mesa Arch

Arches NP is not the only national park with arches. There is a fantastic one called Mesa Arch in Canyonlands NP. This half mile round trip hike takes you to this stunning low spanning arch with a view of another arch, Washer Woman Arch. Look closely through the arch and you will see what looks like a woman washing clothes. The opening below her arms forms an arch. 

No Climbing at Mesa Arch 

It’s a 1200 foot drop off behind Mesa Arch. This unknown daredevil was happy for me to take his picture as he sat at the top of this rock beside the arch. Nope. Wouldn’t catch me up there. This was scary just seeing him up there. 

Needles and Maze Districts

Driving through Canyonlands is pretty and there are plenty of overlooks and trails to keep you busy in the Island of the Sky District. If you have several days to spend at this park, you might check out the Needles or Maze districts also. 

This post may contain affiliate links and we may earn compensation when you click on the links at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.