Canyonlands National Park, located in southeastern Utah, is a vast and rugged landscape characterized by its expansive canyons, towering mesas, and breathtaking vistas. Spanning over 337,000 acres, rivers divide the park into four distinct districts, each offering its own unique beauty and photographic opportunities.
Visitors can marvel at the striking rock formations, hike through challenging trails, or embark on scenic drives to witness the grandeur of the canyons and the winding Colorado and Green Rivers. From the dramatic cliffs of the Island in the Sky to the rugged wilderness of the Maze, Canyonlands National Park is a haven for photographers and nature enthusiasts seeking adventure and unparalleled natural splendor. Be sure to check out the park website for current road conditions and closures.
Top Photography Locations and Sights at Canyonlands National Park:
As photographers, we know that many of you will only have one chance in a lifetime to visit the National Parks. To make your life easier, we have compiled a list of our top photography locations and sights at Canyonlands National Park! While this is not comprehensive, and there are many more amazing sights to see, it should give you a good feel for the park.
Island in the Sky District
This mesa offers breathtaking panoramic views of deep canyons, towering rock formations, and the Colorado and Green rivers below. Spectacular roadside views and short/easy hiking trails makes it the best choice for families.
The Needles District
Characterized by its towering red sandstone spires, narrow canyons, and scenic hiking trails that lead to ancient Native American rock art. This district is best for those seeking more remote photography opportunities with longer hikes.
The Maze District
A remote and rugged area known for its intricate network of deep canyons, towering mesas, and challenging backcountry adventures. This area is best for those interested in overnight, backcountry hiking.
The Colorado and Green Rivers District
Flowing through the heart of Canyonlands National Park, these rivers carve deep canyons creating breathtaking landscapes with their winding paths and dramatic cliffs. There are several hiking trails within the park that lead to scenic and panoramic views of the rivers. Rafting, boating and guided tours are other excellent ways to experience them. Don’t forget to visit Dead Horse State Park, just outside of Canyonlands National Park, which offers a breathtaking distant view of the Canyonlands as well as the Colorado river!
Canyonlands National Park Wildlife Photography:
Canyonlands National Park is filled with wildlife and biodiversity. If you like wildlife photography, you will love what this park has to offer!
Want to learn more about Canyonlands National Park? Check out these maps, guides & books:
- Canyonlands National Park [Map Pack Bundle] (National Geographic Trails Illustrated Map)
- Hiking Canyonlands and Arches National Parks: A Guide To More Than 60 Great Hikes (Falcon Guides)
- Moon Arches & Canyonlands National Parks: Hiking, Biking, Scenic Drives (Travel Guide)
- River Guide to Canyonlands National Park and Vicinity
- Canyonlands National Park Favorite Jeep Roads & Hiking Trails
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Featured National Park Photographers:
- Vezzani Photography: Mesa Arch, Buck Canyon Overlook, Grandview Point, Green River Overlook, The Neck
- NPS / Jennifer Anderson: Desert Bighorn Sheep
- NPS / Kirsten Kearse: Spiny Lizard, Western Plateau Lizard
- NPS / Mackenzie Reed: Chipmunk
- NPS / Neal Herbert: Black Widow, Common Raven
- Pixabay: Candlestick Tower Overlook
- Shutterstock / Arlene Williams: Chocolate Drops, Land of Standing Rocks, Maze Overlook Trail, The Dollhouse
- Shutterstock / cb_travel: Chesler Park Loop Trail
- Shutterstock / Chris Hill: Upheaval Dome
- Shutterstock / Geofox: White Rim Road
- Shutterstock / Gerald A. DeBoer: Dead Horse State Park
- Shutterstock / J Edwards Photography: Shafer Canyon Overlook
- Shutterstock / Josh Leisen: Druid Arch
- Shutterstock / Kelly vanDellen: Cave Spring, Roadside Ruins
- Shutterstock / montgomerygilchrist: Horseshoe Canyon
- Shutterstock / T.Schofield: The Green River
- Shutterstock / Will Pedro: The Colorado River
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