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- Things to Do Around Canyonlands National Park
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More Top 10s
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- Ask Canyonlands National Park Locals
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1. Chesler Park
- 17 miles, can be less. Sun exposed, largest rocks in Needles
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- Hiking
- Needles
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2. Horseshoe Canyon
- Remote backcountry hike leading to well-preserved rock art panels in pristine canyon
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- Hiking
- In the park
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3. Elephant Canyon / Druid Arch
- One of the best views of the Needles. 11 miles
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- Hiking
- Needles
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4. Salt Creek Canyon
- Rough canyon trail past arches and archaeological sites.
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- Hiking
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5. Lower Red Lake Canyon
- 18.8 mi. No actual lake! No water till muddy Colorado River
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- Hiking
- Needles
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6. Confluence Overlook
- 11 miles, flat desert trail, view Maze and Island districts
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- Hiking
- Needles
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7. Murphy Loop
- 9-miles, 1400-foot elevation gain, no water
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- Hiking
- Island in the Sky
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8. The Maze roads
- Only for experienced drivers. High clearance 4WD vehicles.
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- 4WD
- In the park
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9. Lavender Canyon road
- 36.6 mile 4WD road. Too sandy for mountain bikes. Ruins.
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- 4WD
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10. Elephant Hill road
- Very challenging 4WD road
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- 4WD
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The Best of NileGuide
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Seek out the off-the-beaten-path activities of Canyonlands, and you'll be amply rewarded. The unusual, the unexpected, and the unforgettable hikes and views that not as many experience are what make memories for a lifetime. These are some of our favorite off the beaten path things to do in Canyonlands.
Horseshoe Canyon is a remote, sandy hike that leads to ancient rock art panels widely considered to be the best in North America. Elephant Canyon/Druid Arch is another favorite Canyonlands hike, serving up stellar, classic views of the area. Others vigorously defend Chesler Park for its own unique topography and backcountry serenity. Salt Creek Canyon hides many ancient ruins and some natural arches. Lower Red Lake Canyon doesn't have a lake, but it does have a great overnight backpacking trail and a 1,400 foot elevation change. The Confluence Overlook leads to a lookout high above the meeting of the mighty Colorado and Green Rivers. Murphy Loop has beautiful views of the surrounding White Rim rock formations and the elegantly carved canyons.
For some hardy, adventurous people, off-the-beaten-path means wild back roads that can be driven. In the rugged, remote Maze District of Canyonlands, you'll find plenty such dirt roads. Elephant Hill Road is quite popular with Jeep enthusiasts, while Lavender Canyon Road will definitely test both your skill and stamina along its bone-rattling 30 mile+ length. Make sure you have maps, water, and backcountry smarts before you head off on these decidedly off-the-beaten-path treks.
- Best Of Canyonlands National Park
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