UTAH  –  CANYONLANDS NATIONAL PARK  –  Island in the Sky

Notes: Canyonlands National Park is divided into three areas: Island in the Sky, The Maze, and The Needles. The most accessible and the most popular of these sections is Island in the Sky. From the town of Moab, drive north on US 191. Then turn southwest on UT 313. I’ve found mornings to be an excellent time to be here for several reasons: better light than during the middle of the day, fewer people, and cooler temperatures. A world-famous location (no kidding!) is found at Mesa Arch at sunrise. However, this means driving to the trailhead in the dark and then hiking the quarter-mile trail (also in the dark) with a flashlight or headlamp. Be aware – you will not be alone at Mesa Arch. You will join perhaps a couple dozen other folks there to witness the sun break over the La Sal Mountains and dramatically illuminate the underside of Mesa Arch. Other areas worth a stop include Shafer Canyon Overlook, Green River Overlook, Candlestick Tower Overlook, and Grand View Point Overlook. An entrance fee or an appropriate pass is required for entry into the park. Restrooms and water (March – December only) are available at the Visitor Center. Pit toilets are available at several overlooks.

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