Island in the Sky
Island in the Sky is a sheer-walled mesa that constitutes the northern part of Canyonlands National Park. A scenic drive follows the rim of the mesa, with pullouts at vistas where you get amazing views out over the surrounding country, including rugged canyons that have been carved by the Colorado and Green rivers. In many places the surrounding country is 1,000 feet down, virtually straight down, from the top of the mesa.
Island in the Sky is the most accessible district in Canyonlands. It is also close to Moab, and to Arches National Park. If time is limited, this area is the best choice for auto touring and short hikes.
The scenic drive provides access to some of the park's most popular viewpoints, including:
Grand View Point
Mesa Arch
Green River Overlook
Upheaval Dome
Nearby, Dead Horse Point Utah State Park also offers incredible overlooks.
A Visitor Center can be found along the scenic drive, just inside the park. It is open daily, 9 am to 4:30 pm, with extended hours during spring and fall.
The scenic drive also provides access to Willow Flat Campground, which is open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis. The campground offers 12 sites with tables, fire grills and vault toilets. Firewood and water are not available. Maximum group size is 10 people, with a limit of two vehicles per group. This campground typically fills up every day from late March through June and again from early September to mid-October. Arrive early if you hope to get a site for a weekend stay.
The White Rim Trail circles Island in the Sky. It is a rugged four-wheel drivers and mountain bike route that follows shelves under the mesa rim. It extends for about 100 miles. Strong bikers sometimes complete the route in a day but others stay overnight in designated campsites. No potable water is available along the White Rim Road. Permits are needed for overnight stays anywhere in the park.
See our information on hiking trails in Canyonlands National Park.