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I came with low expectations for Canyonlands and fell in love! It has to be one of the most underrated parks we've been to in Utah and I hope that you add it to your bucketlist. The Colorado River and Green River both go through Canyonlands and create the canyons the park takes its name from.
30$ per car.
(Get a USA National Parks Pass for just $80 and save money if you’re planning on visiting multiple National Parks in a year)
You can easily spend 1-day exploring the island in the Sky district but if you'd like to explore more, you'll need at least 2 days
•Island in the Sky:
This district is the most accessible district. It is the closest to Moab and offers rim-side views over deep canyons and hiking trails.
You'll find a visitor center and campground here.
•The Needles:
Located in the southeastern part of the park, the Needles contains popular hiking trails through a desert decorated with rock spires. You’ll find a visitor center and campground here.
•The Maze:
This is the least accessible district of Canyonlands. You can explore remote terrain with deep cairns that are truly a maze.
You won't find a visitor center here.
•Watch the sunrise at Mesa Arch - it's an easy hike and sunrises here is a must.
•Grand View Hike - 2 miles trail that takes about an hour and provides beautiful views.
•White Rim Overlook Hike - 1.8 miles trail.
•Whale Rock trail - 1 mile. Park at Upheaval Dome Road
•Visit the Overlooks at Island in the Sky - Shafer Canyon Overlook
Candlestick Tower Overlook
Buck Canyon Overlook
Grand Viewpoint Overlook
Green River Overlook
•Visitor Center Viewpoint - if you park your car at the Visitor Center and cross the street you'll find a beautiful viewpoint.
•There's no food around, not even a vending machine. Bring your own snacks and food
•No Pets allowed.
•If you're exploring the needles and maze make sure to beware of flash floods.
•Leave no trace