Canyonlands
244 mi SE of Salt Lake City, UT
1964
Established:
Size:
337,598 acres
Visitors:
733,996 in 2019
Summary
Canyonlands National Park, situated in southeastern Utah, is a mesmerizing expanse of rugged landscape sculpted by the forces of erosion over millions of years. Spanning over 337,000 acres, the park is divided into four distinct districts, each offering its own unique blend of towering sandstone cliffs, deep canyons, winding rivers, and expansive plateaus. From the iconic vistas of Island in the Sky to the labyrinthine canyons of the Needles District and the remote wilderness of the Maze, Canyonlands captivates visitors with its unparalleled beauty and opportunities for outdoor adventure, including hiking, backpacking, off-road exploring, and stargazing under some of the darkest skies in the United States.
Wildlife
Canyonlands National Park, situated in southeastern Utah, is a mesmerizing expanse of rugged landscape sculpted by the forces of erosion over millions of years. Spanning over 337,000 acres, the park is divided into four distinct districts, each offering its own unique blend of towering sandstone cliffs, deep canyons, winding rivers, and expansive plateaus. From the iconic vistas of Island in the Sky to the labyrinthine canyons of the Needles District and the remote wilderness of the Maze, Canyonlands captivates visitors with its unparalleled beauty and opportunities for outdoor adventure, including hiking, backpacking, off-road exploring, and stargazing under some of the darkest skies in the United States.
Sounds of the Park
Things to Do
Visitors to Canyonlands National Park can enjoy hiking, backpacking, auto touring, horseback riding, stargazing, and more. Note that many park services are reduced in winter, and roads may be closed due to snow and ice.
When to Visit
Canyonlands National Park has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and cold, moderately snowy winters. Precipitation is rare year-round. The transitional seasons of spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) have the most pleasant weather for visiting, though crowds are highest during this time. As a result, it is recommended to visit during the week rather than during the weekend.
Ties to Stephen Mather
Fun Fact
Famous outlaw Butch Cassidy had a hideout in what is now Canyonlands National Park called Robbers Roost.