After our night in Green River, where by the way exactly opposite of our hotel in campground was, which had quite a lot of campers, we wanted to visit Arches first. What we did not know was that you have to register here online in advance, because so many people want to go to the park and otherwise the park becomes too crowded. Once again, the park was full and we could not enter at all this time.
This was now the third or fourth park we could not enjoy. I anticipate that this will rule out trips to the western US for me in the future. We tried to get a ticket online, but it was impossible. So we drove to Canyonlands National Park which is right next door. I already suspected bad, but strangely enough the park was not so much visited. The park is one of my favorite parks in the US at all. Much better than the Grand Canyon and so many other national parks. So we did some hiking over the day there.
Canyonlands National Park, located in southeastern Utah, is a vast and rugged wilderness area known for its colorful canyons, towering mesas, and stunning desert landscapes. The park is divided into three main districts: the Island in the Sky, the Needles, and the Maze, each offering a unique and diverse set of geological features and recreational opportunities.
The Island in the Sky district is known for its panoramic views and easy access. Visitors can take in the views from the many overlooks and take short hikes to explore the area. The Grand View Point Trail and the Mesa Arch Trail are popular hikes that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding canyons and mesas.
The Needles district is known for its colorful spires, towers, and sandstone formations. Visitors can take a scenic drive through the district and take short hikes to explore the area. The Cave Spring Trail and the Chesler Park Trail are popular hikes that offer a chance to see the park’s unique geology and wildlife.
The Maze district is known for its remote wilderness and rugged terrain. It’s the least visited district in the park, but it offers a chance for visitors to experience the park’s wilderness and to explore the area on backpacking and camping trips. The Harvest Scene Trail and the Lavender Canyon Trail are popular hikes that offer a chance to explore the park’s remote wilderness.
Canyonlands National Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and is known for its hiking, backpacking, camping, and rock climbing opportunities. Visitors can also take scenic drives, go on ranger-led tours, and take part in a variety of educational programs and workshops.