The Grand View Point Trail is a breathtaking adventure that’s 1.8 miles, making it an ideal choice for hikers of all skill levels. The hike is located in the Island in the Sky district of Canyonlands National Park near Moab, Utah. It offers unparalleled panoramic views of the canyons, including the White Rim 4WD road, rock formations in The Needles District, and mountains in the distance.
- Difficulty: Easy, beginner friendly
- Distance: 1.8 miles out-and-back
- Elevation gain: ~160 ft
- Time: 1 hour
- Cost: National Park Fees
The trail, arguably one of the best in Canyonlands, begins with sweeping vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see. The path winds its way along the rim of the canyon, with its labyrinth of canyons, mesas, and buttes stretching out before you in every direction.
Trailhead Map and Directions
From the Islands in the Sky visitor center, head south along the park’s main road for about 3 miles. Look for signs for the turnoff to Grand VIew Point Trailhead which will be on your left. There is a large parking area here with plenty of spots and a bathroom.
Trailhead Coordinates: 38.310751, -109.856605
Hiking to Grand View Point Overlook
The first several hundred feet of this trail are paved and accessible, however, beyond that point the terrain is not suitable for wheelchairs.
Heading southeast along the east rim of the plateau, you’ll walk across flat, red rocks by the edge of the cliff. The path bears away toward the west with rock cairns helping lead the way. The terrain is mostly flat slickrock with some vegetation.
At the end of the trail, there are several sandstone boulders that you can climb up for different views and pictures. We saw a guy doing a headstand here by the cliff edge, which almost gave me an anxiety attack to say the least.
Viewpoints Along the Grant View Point Trail
The National Park Service provided several informative signs at the trailhead that show the prominent rock formations of the area. The signs include information so you can identify the 305 foot tall Totem Pole rock spire, the junction for the Colorado and Green Rivers, and White Rim 4WD Road.
The Grand View Point Overlook allows you to see miles of the White Rim, with a 1,000 foot drop down, Monument Basin (formerly called Standing Rock Basin) toward the east, Murphy Hogback on the West, and Junction Butte to the south. A prominent, light-colored sandstone formation called Cleopatra’s Chair can be seen to the northwest. Some features of the Maze and Needles districts are visible from here if you look close enough.
Tips and Things to Bring on this Hike
- Bring water with you on this hike in the dry desert environment.
- Protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, long sleeves and pants, etc.
- Always stay on the designated trail and avoid going too close to the edge of the canyon, especially in windy conditions.
- Keep an eye out for wildlife like reptiles and birds of prey. Give them plenty of space to avoid disturbing their natural habitat.
- Be courteous to other hikers by yielding to uphill traffic and stepping aside to allow faster hikers to pass.
- As always, practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out all trash and waste to minimize your impact on the environment.
Capturing the Grandeur: Photography Tips
There is no shortage of opportunities to capture stunning images along the Grand View Point Trail. Whether you’re shooting with a professional camera or simply using your phone, there are a few key things to keep in mind to ensure your photos do justice to the breathtaking beauty of Canyonlands National Park.
- Timing is everything. Early morning and late afternoon hours offer the best lighting conditions, with soft, golden light that enhances the natural colors of the landscape. Try to plan your hike accordingly to take advantage of these prime shooting times.
- Pay attention to the unique geological features and patterns of the canyon landscape. Look for interesting textures, shapes, and lines that can add depth and visual interest to your photos. Experiment with different angles and perspectives and get creative with your framing.
- In terms of camera settings, opt for a smaller aperture (higher f-stop) to maximize depth of field and ensure sharp focus throughout the scene.
While taking pictures and videos is a must for your memories, sharing with loved ones and on social media, don’t let it be your primary focus. Take a moment to simply enjoy the view for only yourself.
Nearby Trails to Hike and Overlooks
- Mesa Arch Trail: offers stunning views of the iconic Mesa Arch, framed by the glowing hues of sunrise or sunset.
- Upheaval Dome: leading hikers to a mysterious geological formation shrouded in scientific intrigue.
- Nearby Viewpoints:
- White Rim Overlook (very close to Grand View Point)
- Buck Canyon Overlook
- Candlestick Tower Overlook
