Island in the Sky in Canyonlands National Park

Island in the Sky

Canyonlands' most accessible district

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Island in the Sky Details

The Island in the Sky is a flat mesa rimmed by 1000-foot sheer cliffs that have been cut away for more than 150 million years by the Green and Colorado Rivers. A scenic road follows the rim of the "island" with amazing views of the Maze and Needles Districts as well as much of Southern Utah. The sparse vegetation reveals the rich reds and oranges of rock formations. The Island in the Sky is the most accessible district in the park and is a great destination for those looking for a half-day car tour or an introduction to Canyonlands. Highlights of the Island in the Sky's 34-mile (roundtrip) circuit include Mesa Arch and the Grand View Point Overlook. The road, originally built to facilitate mining, is now used by almost half a million tourists every year.

Difficulty

Low

Distance

N/A

Estimated time

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Region

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Nearby Parks Around Island in the Sky

Compare nearby parks around Island in the Sky when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.

5.7 mi away

Canyonlands

National Park · UT

21.0 mi away

Arches

National Park · UT

74.7 mi away

Capitol Reef

National Park · UT

109.1 mi away

Mesa Verde

National Park · CO

119.7 mi away

Black Canyon

National Park · CO

134.7 mi away

Bryce Canyon

National Park · UT

Nearby Points of Interest Around Island in the Sky

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0.7 mi away

Wilhite Trail

A strenuous trail

0.8 mi away

Aztec Butte

Visit the ancient Puebloan granaries

1.0 mi away

Upheaval Dome

This mineral mystery is worth a look

1.0 mi away

Willow Flat Campground

A popular 12-site campground

1.5 mi away

Mesa Arch

Frame the perfect sunrise