Situated a mere 40 minute drive from Moab are the jaw-dropping vistas of Canyonlands’ Island In The Sky district and Dead Horse Point State Park. Both easily visited in one day and away from the masses, these two parks are truly a breath of fresh air.
Heading southwest from Moab along highways 191 then 313, stop over at the Monitor and Merrimac Buttes lookout, situated just beyond the hairpin turn about 20 minutes into the drive. This is a wonderful and quiet sunrise/early morning spot.
Canyonlands – Island In The Sky
Shafer Trail Viewpoint
As you enter Canyonlands and go past the visitor centre, there is a lookout to your left of Shafer Canyon. A worthwhile stop on our way out of the park, alternatively, you can catch some amazing light rays in the early morning over the winding road and plunging cliff face.
Mesa Arch
Another 8 minutes of driving and you will reach the Mesa Arch trailhead. Within the first 90 minutes of the sun rising, witness the spectacular orange glow beneath the arch. Barely a 20-minute walk to the viewpoint, this will be the first of many ‘wow’ moments as you explore the Island In The Sky district. Whilst you are not allowed on top of the arch itself, there is plenty of room to explore either side of it.
Green River Overlook
Just around the corner from the Mesa Arch trailhead is the Green River Overlook pullout – well worth a stopover!
Aztec Butte
The Aztec Butte Trail is an interesting 1-1.5 hour return hike involving light scrambling as you summit the butte. There is a side trail to view ancient Puebloan granaries (pantry), and both trails are marked by cairns.
Grand View Point
Another great pullout is Grand View Point, which offers sweeping views of the sprawling canyons, the Needles and Maze sections of Canyonlands, White Rim Road, and the confluence of the Green and Colorado Rivers. A great spot to have a bite to eat, you can follow along the cliff rim for a mile to get the best vantage points. Allow for an hour or so of wandering time.
Tips: Fill up your drink bottles at the visitor centre. There are toilets available at some of the scenic pullouts along the Island In The Sky drive.
Dead Horse Point State Park
A quick 15-20 minute drive from Canyonlands is Dead Horse Point State Park, best visited in the late afternoon until sunset. With incredible 360 degree views along the scenic drive, watch the Colorado River wind through the rugged landscape, and light rays cascading through the layers of canyon walls.
With vistas-a-plenty right at your (car)door step, a day trip out to Canyonlands National Park’s Island In The Sky and Dead Horse Point State Park is suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Prepare to be WOWED! 🙂