The Grand Canyonlands

Description:

This trip through Canyonlands National Park is an adrenaline-fueled variety of adventures. Off-roading, whitewater rafting, pueblo-viewing junkies will all get their fix with this four-day smorgasbord.

Because of its fairly remote localtion, trips to Canyonlands require a little extra prep. This one in particular calls for a vehicle or two (one for some awesome off-roading), camping gear and four days worth of food.

Photo courtesy of Rob Lee

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Author: Alexi


Day 1 - Canyonlands National Park


It's your first day in Canyonlands, and what better way to start appreciating the gorgeous scenery than with an early morning hike to Mesa Arch. Sunrises here are flat-out spectacular. After that (and maybe a picnic breakfast), take your crew out to Elephant Hill road for some challenging, exciting off-roading.
Get a permit (ahead of time) and find a campsite when you're done on Elephant Hill Road. Set up camp, make dinner and appreciate the stars.


1

Mesa Arch

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Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands National Park, UT 84532

Phone:

(435) 719-2313


2

Elephant Hill road

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Location:

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Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands National Park, UT 84532

Phone:

(435) 719-2313


3

Backcountry overnight stays

Location:

Canyonlands National Park, UT


Day 2 - Angels Camp


Whitewater rafting on the Colorado is epic. Pick an outfitter that sounds good to you. OARS has been doing this for years and has it down to a science - a fun science. Then, pack up your swimsuit and sunscreen and prepare yourself for a faceful of whitewater and a day full of fun.
After a day on the river, mosey home to your campsite for dinner. Rest up - it's another big day tomorrow,


1

OARS Canyonlands Inc

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PO Box 67
Angels Camp, CA 95222

Phone:

(209) 736-4677


Day 3 - Chinle, Canyonlands National Park


Today's activities are for the history buffs (adventure junkies, don't worry - you'll still have fun). Choose between Canyon de Chelly - a Navajo Tribal Trust Land - or Hovenweep National Monument - prehistoric puebloan villages. Either way, you're in for a fascinating look at the people who have (and in some cases still do) call this area home.
Afterward, head to the Colorado River for a dinner, then narrated float on the Moab Queen. The Canyonlands by Night Tour includes professionally-told stories about Canyonlands, delicious cowboy-style food and music.
Spend the night camping again, or try something different at the Runnin' Iron Inn, a rustic hotel that will blend nicely with your Canyonlands by Night experience.


1

Canyon de Chelly

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Canyon de Chelly
Chinle, AZ 86503

Phone:

(928) 674-5500


2

Hovenweep National Monument

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McElmo Route
Canyonlands National Park, CO 81321

Phone:

(970) 562-4282


4

Runnin' Iron Inn

Location:

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Mile Post 79 1/2 on Hwy 191
Canyonlands National Park, UT 83536

Phone:

(435) 587-2351


Day 4 - Canyonlands National Park


You've been off-roading, you've been whitewater rafting and you've seen some of Canyonland's unique history. Round out your trip with a day of hiking. Enjoy this slightly slower-paced day as you wander Elephant Canyon, Grand View Point Trail or Island in the sky. Pick the hike that best suits your fitness ability and have fun.


1

Elephant Canyon / Druid Arch

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Location:

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Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands National Park, UT 84532

Phone:

(435) 719-2313


2

Grand View Point Trail

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Location:

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Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands National Park, UT 84532

Phone:

(435) 719-2313


3

Island In the Sky

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Location:

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Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands National Park, UT 84532

Phone:

(435) 719-2313


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