Canyonlands National Park encompasses 257,640 acres of rugged land. Divided into four districts by the Green and Colorado Rivers, two canyons separate the very different parts of the park: The Needles on the east, The Maze on the west, the two rivers, and the most visited area, Island in the Sky on the north. We’ll cover the Island in the Sky in this guide.
As one of Utah’s Mighty 5 national parks, your visit can be part of a 5-park road trip loop, as part of a multi-day visit to Moab, or Canyonlands can be your sole destination. Located in the high desert of the Colorado Plateau, the park receives less than 10 inches of rain a year. The arid conditions mean average temperatures are in the mid to high 90s in June, July, and August. We visited in mid-May and found it a perfect time to go. Here’s what we recommend for visiting with kids.
How to Get to Canyonlands National Park
Located in southeast Utah, Canyonlands National Park – Island in the Sky is a short drive from Moab. From US 191 north of Moab, UT 313 leads to the Island in the Sky entrance of Canyonlands. Moab to the park entrance is 32.5 miles or about 40 minutes.
- 123 miles west of Grand Junction, CO, or about a 2-hour drive
- 244 miles southeast of Salt Lake City, Utah which is almost a 4-hour drive
- 364 miles west of Denver, Colorado, or close to a 6-hour drive
7 Best Things to Do in Island in the Sky – Canyonlands National Park with Kids
1. Drive the 34-mile Scenic Drive
This paved route takes you through stunning viewpoints and landscapes, allowing you to see the park’s beauty conveniently. Be sure to stop at pull-outs for photos and soak in breathtaking views of deep canyons and mesas carved by the Green and Colorado Rivers.
2. Mesa Arch Hike
This quick 0.5-mile hike is perfect for families and rewards you with one of the park’s iconic views of a natural rock arch framing the La Sal Mountains. Go early to catch the magical colors of sunrise, as the morning light illuminates the arch.
3. Green River Overlook
A short walk from the parking area leads to panoramic views of the winding Green River surrounded by rugged canyons. It’s an ideal spot for photos, especially during sunset when the colors of the cliffs come alive.
4. Visitor Center Viewpoint
Right near the entrance, this viewpoint offers an introduction to the breathtaking scenery you’ll experience throughout the park. Stop by the Visitor Center for a map and to learn about ranger programs or borrow an Explorer Pack for kids.
5. White Rim Overlook Hike
Stretching 1.8 miles round trip, this family-friendly hike provides spectacular views of the Colorado River, Monument Basin, and White Rim sandstone. It’s best enjoyed in the late afternoon or evening, with cooler temperatures to make the walk more comfortable.
6. Shafer Canyon Viewpoint
From this viewpoint, you can marvel at the white-knuckle Shafer Trail Road switchbacks as they snake down the cliffside. Adventurous families may opt for a guided 4WD tour to experience this thrilling route up close.
7. Grand View Point Hike (with older kids)
This 2-mile out-and-back trail along the canyon rim offers jaw-dropping views of the White Rim, Needles, and distant landscapes. The trail’s vantage points are unbeatable, especially at sunrise or sunset when the lighting enhances the rugged terrain.
The map above features key points of interest in the Island in the Sky District. To help you navigate, blue markers indicate scenic overlook sites, green markers show the trailheads for easy hikes, yellow markers mark moderate hike trailheads, and red markers highlight the starting points for strenuous hikes. Use this visual guide to plan your visit based on the activities and difficulty level best suited for your family.
5 Best Island in the Sky Overlooks and Viewpoints
1. Visitor Center Viewpoint
You won’t have to travel far for your first great vista, as this viewpoint is located right across from the Island in the Sky Visitor Center. It offers a sweeping introduction to the dramatic canyons, cliffs, and mesas the park is known for, making it an ideal first stop to orient yourself. After enjoying the view, head into the visitor center for maps, tips, and ranger program information.
2. Schaefer Canyon Viewpoint
This viewpoint offers a jaw-dropping look at the famous Shafer Trail Road, a winding dirt road of hairpin switchbacks that descend dramatically into the canyon below. Adventurous families may be inspired to drive this thrilling road or book a guided off-road tour, while others can simply marvel at the engineering feat and the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
3. Grand View Point
Located at the farthest end of the Island in the Sky scenic drive, this viewpoint offers a panoramic view of Canyonlands’ stunning geological diversity. From here, you can see the La Sal Mountains, White Rim Sandstone, Monument Basin, and even glimpse The Needles in the distance. This iconic spot is especially breathtaking during sunrise or sunset when the light creates vivid colors across the canyon walls.
4. Buck Canyon Overlook
Providing a nearly 180-degree view of the stunning, multicolored canyon beneath, this overlook is both easily accessible and serene. Only 200-300 feet from the parking lot, it’s a great stop for families or those short on time. Spend a moment here to admire the vastness of the landscape and the intricate patterns carved into the canyons by millions of years of erosion.
5. Green River Overlook
Located past the Willows Campground at the end of the paved Green River Overlook Road, this site provides a fantastic view of the winding Green River far below. Surrounded by intricate layers of rugged terrain, this overlook is particularly stunning at sunset, when the lighting accentuates the earth-toned cliffs and winding waterways, creating a truly magical scene.
Canyonlands Island in the Sky Hiking
Easy Hikes with Kids
1. Mesa Arch (0.5 miles, ~30 minutes)
A short and scenic hike, the Mesa Arch trail is perfect for families with kids and hikers of all skill levels. The gentle loop leads you to one of Canyonlands’ most iconic views, with Mesa Arch framing the vast canyon landscape and the La Sal Mountains beyond. This spot is especially famous at sunrise when the soft morning light glows through the arch. Be sure to keep little ones close, as the arch leads directly to a steep cliff edge.
2. Murphy Point Overlook (3.6 miles, ~2 hours)
This out-and-back trail offers expansive, uninterrupted views without the crowds. Follow the wide, relatively flat path to reach a viewpoint overlooking Candlestick Tower, the winding Green River, and the White Rim Road far below. Since the trail doesn’t have railing, it’s a great place to discuss trail safety with kids ahead of time. It’s usually a quiet hike, making it perfect for families who enjoy a peaceful walk with incredible scenery.
3. White Rim Overlook (1.8 miles, ~1.5 hours)
This lightly trafficked trail takes you to one of the park’s best viewpoints over Monument Basin and the Colorado River. With little elevation change, it’s an excellent option for kids, and the reward is a jaw-dropping view that feels like you’re standing on the edge of the world. Aim for a late afternoon hike to enjoy cooler temperatures and vibrant lighting along the cliffs.
4. Grand View Point Trail (2.0 miles, ~1.5 to 2 hours)
This out-and-back trail hugs the edge of the canyon and offers some of the most dramatic views in the Island in the Sky district. The relatively flat trail is well-marked and easy to follow, making it ideal for families with older kids who can appreciate the incredible vistas of White Rim Sandstone, Monument Basin, and The Needles in the distance. If you’re visiting during the warmer months, consider starting early in the day before the sun gets too intense.
Moderate Hikes
1. Neck Spring Trail (5.8 miles, ~3-4 hours)
The Neck Spring Trail is an excellent choice for those looking to escape the crowds and experience solitude within Island in the Sky. The trail takes you down into canyons and back up again, offering a journey through beautiful desert landscapes with a mix of sandstone formations, open views, and two natural springs along the way. Keep an eye out for remnants of historical ranching activity, including old fencing and corrals. Don’t forget to follow the cairns (carefully placed stone markers) to navigate the trail, especially as sections may be less defined. Make sure to pack plenty of water, as there’s little shade along the route.
2. Aztec Butte Trail (2.0 miles, ~1-1.5 hours)
Aztec Butte is a unique trail that combines relatively easy hiking with an opportunity to explore history. The first portion of the hike is relatively flat and straightforward, taking you through wide-open desert terrain. When the path forks, take the left split to ascend a moderate incline leading to ancestral Puebloan granaries tucked into the rock. These granaries, once used for storing food, are incredible examples of how indigenous people adapted to this harsh environment. While the hike is only two miles, be prepared for a bit of scrambling near the butte if you wish to explore further.
3. Whale Rock Trail (1.0 mile, ~1 hour)
This short yet moderately challenging trail is a favorite among families due to its unique geological features. The trail leads to the top of a giant sandstone dome shaped like a whale, providing sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. The path is well-marked but steep in places, requiring some caution on sections with significant drop-offs. Kids may enjoy scrambling up the rock, but it’s important to keep a close watch, especially at the summit. The reward is a fantastic 360-degree panorama of the Island in the Sky district, making Whale Rock a fun and memorable hike.
4. Upheaval Dome Overlook Trail (1.8 miles, ~1.5 hours)
The Upheaval Dome Trail is a geologist’s dream and one of the park’s most intriguing hikes. The trail takes you to an overlook of the mysterious Upheaval Dome, a massive crater-like feature that has sparked debate among scientists. Is it the result of a meteorite impact or an ancient salt dome collapse? The hike begins with a moderate ascent and includes several rocky sections, which could require a bit of scrambling for younger kids. For those feeling adventurous, the trail continues to a second overlook that provides an even more expansive view of the dome and its multicolored rock layers.
Strenuous Hikes
For adventurous families with teens or experienced hikers, the strenuous hikes in Island in the Sky offer thrilling challenges and rewarding views, but they require preparation and caution. These trails often involve long distances (ranging from 5 to 21 miles), significant elevation changes (up to 1,600 feet), and rugged terrain that demands endurance and skill. For example, the Gooseberry Trail is the steepest in the area, with grueling switchbacks descending sheer cliffs, while the Syncline Loop circles the Upheaval Dome, testing even seasoned hikers with its boulder fields and steep climbs. Lathrop Trail and Wilhite Trail descend deep into the canyons, offering jaw-dropping views of the Colorado River and mesas, but they’re best suited for full-day commitments or even backpacking trips with permits.
Auto Touring and 4WD White Rim Road and Shafer Canyon Road
Adventurous families with 4WD vehicles can explore the unpaved 100-mile White Rim Road. To fully enjoy the drive, plan on a 2-3 day road trip. Backcountry permits are required to camp at one of the 10 camping sites along the road. While the extreme scenery is beautiful, the road is not for the faint of heart. Switchbacks, steep inclines, drop-offs with no guard rails, and necessary slow speeds make this road an intense experience.
Shafer Canyon Road is an 18-mile road from Canyonlands that connects with either White Rim Road or Potash Road. Four-wheel drive is a must again as the road, much like White Rim Road, has many tricky and dangerous areas.
If you like the idea of seeing the breathtaking vistas but are not keen on driving the challenging roads, you can book an off-roading guided tour and leave the rough roads to hired vehicles and guides while your family enjoys the views.
How Many Days Do You Need at Canyonlands National Park?
Your big family can cover Canyonlands in a day, maybe less depending on how much you hike. If you arrive at the park early, you’ll find the line at the entrance station shorter. Head to the Mesa Arch parking lot right away to hike to the arch.
One Day Itinerary
1. Hike Mesa Arch (30 minutes to 1 hour)
Kick off your day early by visiting Mesa Arch, one of Canyonlands’ most iconic landmarks. This short and relatively easy 0.5-mile loop offers breathtaking views and is the perfect sunrise destination. The arch acts as a natural frame for the stunning La Sal Mountains in the distance, and during sunrise, the soft light creates a glowing effect under the arch.
2. Hike a Moderate Trail or 2-3 Easy Trails (2-2.5 hours)
Choose a trail or two based on your family’s hiking ability and interests. If your group can manage a moderate trail, consider the Aztec Butte Trail (2 miles) to explore the ancestral Puebloan granaries or the Grand View Point Trail (2 miles) for stunning canyon vistas. For those preferring shorter or easier options, trails like White Rim Overlook (1.8 miles) or Murphy Point Overlook (3.6 miles) offer scenic beauty without being too challenging. Pack plenty of water and snacks for the hike, as temperatures can climb quickly, even in the morning.
3. Visit Every Overlook (2-3 hours)
With hiking completed in the cooler morning hours, spend the afternoon visiting the overlooks. Start with the Visitor Center Viewpoint for a quick overview, then make your way to Grand View Point, where you can gaze upon miles of rugged terrain, including the La Sal Mountains, the Needles District, and Monument Basin. Next, head to the Schaefer Canyon Viewpoint to see the thrilling switchbacks of the Shafer Trail below. Don’t miss the Green River Overlook, a fantastic place to witness the winding Green River cutting through the canyon. Finally, stop at Buck Canyon Overlook, an easily accessed spot offering sweeping views just steps from the parking area
4. Stop at the Visitor Center (30-60 minutes)
Take a break from the heat and stop by the Island in the Sky Visitor Center. Here, you can check out informative exhibits about the park’s history, geology, and wildlife. Kids can pick up a Junior Ranger booklet to complete activities during your visit and earn a badge as a memento. The center is also a great place to refill water bottles, use the restroom, and get advice on trails or conditions from rangers. Families with younger kids may also enjoy borrowing an Explorer Pack, which includes fun tools like binoculars and a magnifying glass for enhancing the outdoor experience.
Half-Day Itineraries
If you’re short on time or planning to visit Canyonlands after exploring Arches National Park or Dead Horse Point State Park, you can still enjoy a memorable trip to Island in the Sky with a half-day visit. Focus on a few key highlights to maximize your experience:
Two-hour visit
Begin with a quick hike to Mesa Arch, one of the park’s most iconic spots. Then, drive to either Grand View Point for sweeping canyon vistas or Green River Overlook for breathtaking views of the winding river below.
Four-hour visit
Explore more by hiking the 2-mile Grand View Point Trail for stunning panoramic views, the short but fascinating Upheaval Dome Trail, and Mesa Arch. Complement your visit by driving to several viewpoints like Green River Overlook or Buck Canyon Overlook to take in incredible vistas without hiking far.
Entrance Fees for Canyonlands National Park
We highly recommend buying an America the Beautiful pass for $80. The pass is good for one calendar year and is your ticket to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites. Having a pass will allow you to pop in for a few hours in the evening and again the next morning.
If you have a 4th grader, check out the FREE Annual 4th Grade pass which is good for the duration of the school year through the following summer (September-August).
Current U.S. military members and their dependents in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, and Space Force, as well as Reserve and National Guard members, qualify for a free annual pass.
Can You see Arches and Canyonlands in One Day?
It is possible to see Arches and Canyonlands in one day, although I don’t recommend it. However, if your family is not into hiking or has mobility limitations, there are plenty of gorgeous outlooks, viewpoints, parking lots, and pull-outs to view the beauty of both parks in one day.
10 Tips for Visiting Canyonlands with Kids
I liked Canyonlands more than Arches, but your opinion may differ. Here are my tips for visiting Canyonlands with your big family.
- View the park map before you visit to plan your activities.
- Check the NPS site for Ranger programs including talks at the visitor center and overlooks.
- We recommend arriving at the park first thing in the morning (before 9) and then visiting Dead Horse Point State Park. The state park has a great picnic area and restrooms with indoor plumbing.
- Families can check out an Explorer Pack from the visitor center filled with activities and supplies to help you have fun in the park. Deposit required, packs contain binoculars, hand lens, and guide.
- Some of the darkest skies can be seen in national parks. Enjoy the great conditions for stargazing. Bring a star chart to help you find the constellations and Milky Way or join a Park Ranger event.
- Since the overlooks don’t have fences or railings, discuss with your kids before they get out of the car your expectations and comfort level of walking with them near cliff edges.
- Trails aren’t stroller friendly, if you have littles, you’ll want a baby or toddler hiking backpack carrier.
- Pack plenty of water and snacks. While there is a water-filling station at the visitor center, there isn’t anywhere else in the park to fill up water bottles.
- Mesa Arch is best at sunrise. Green River Overlook and Grand View Point is great at dusk.
- If you want to visit at sunrise, remember to add in travel time to the park and time to get through the entrance.
Where to Stay Near Canyonlands National Park
Hotel
Check out our list of hotels in Moab for big families. During this visit, we stayed at the Comfort Suites.
Camping and RVing
Willow Flat Campground in Island of the Sky has 12 sites, first-come, first served. There are toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings but no water.
Vacation Rentals
If you don’t mind staying a little further out or if you plan on staying three or more days in the Moab area, a vacation rental can make a great base for your vacation.
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