From my research if we wanted to get there at sunrise in mid-April (so about 6:45) we should leave Moab about 5:15-5:30am. It sounds like those days are an especially popular time for this park due to tail end of Spring Break, and I especially think this year due to Covid it'll be even busier. Any insights into if this will be ample time and if the parking lot will already be full by 6am? We're going during the week, Monday or Tuesday, so hoping that will help. We're not morning people by any means, so trying to inch out every bit of sleeping time while also being sure not to get there too late. Thanks!
A:
I would shoot to get to the trailhead 40 min before sunrise. April is a busy time but the weekday should help and the vast majority of people just aren't willing to get up this early. I …
I would shoot to get to the trailhead 40 min before sunrise. April is a busy time but the weekday should help and the vast majority of people just aren't willing to get up this early. I suspect you will be just ahead of the crowd. It's a 45-50 min drive. If it were me, I would leave Moab at 5:15am for a 645 sunrise.
So if sunrise is +/- 6:40 on the day I plan to be there, what would you suggest is a good time to head out there? I want to be early and I know there'll be plenty of other folks. Also, how many entrances are there to Canyonlands? Thanks in advance, this forum helps so much!
A:
It depends on where you are leaving from - Moab? There is only one paved entrance to the Island in the Sky section of Canyonlands, which is where Mesa Arch is. From US191, …
It depends on where you are leaving from - Moab? There is only one paved entrance to the Island in the Sky section of Canyonlands, which is where Mesa Arch is. From US191, turn west onto Utah Route 313, which becomes Island in the Sky Road inside the park boundaries. It's about 35-40 miles from Moab to Mesa Arch parking lot, and then there is about .3 mile hike to the arch. If you want to be sure to be there at sunrise, I'd allow a minimum of 90 minutes from Moab.
I'm staying at a hotel in Monticello. Can I drive up to see the sunrise at mesa arch if we're not camping there?
A:
The arch is in the national park. Anyone can drive into the park to see the arch. If you want the pictures at sunrise, get there early. People are there up to an hour before sunrise to get …
The arch is in the national park. Anyone can drive into the park to see the arch. If you want the pictures at sunrise, get there early. People are there up to an hour before sunrise to get the closest spots.
doing a Utah park tour..we are seniors and wonder if Canyonlands is a good place to visit if we are not hikers
A:
Absolutely, visit Canyonlands. Most of the great views in the Island in the Sky are only steps away from your vehicle...no hiking necessary. Mesa Arch does require a short hike …
Absolutely, visit Canyonlands. Most of the great views in the Island in the Sky are only steps away from your vehicle...no hiking necessary. Mesa Arch does require a short hike and you will have to go over a small hill, but it is worth it. The Grand View and the Green River Overlook are accessible over flat paved trails and are close to the parking lots. While you are there, go to Dead Horse Point State Park, It also has great views without hiking.
Oops! Something went wrong, Please try again after a few minutes
Frequently asked questions
Q:
What is the Community Artist in the Parks program?
A:
The Community Artist in the Parks program was created in 2009 as a way to highlight the connection between local artists and the landscapes contained within Arches and Canyonlands …
The Community Artist in the Parks program was created in 2009 as a way to highlight the connection between local artists and the landscapes contained within Arches and Canyonlands national parks...
Save
Share
More
