The top ten things to do in Utah’s Canyon Country, from the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park and Newspaper Rock in the north to Monument Valley and Goosenecks State Park in the south.
The top ten at a glance
| # | Bucket-list stop | Area |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Needles Overlook | Above the Needles District, Canyonlands National Park (no entrance fee) |
| 2 | Needles District of Canyonlands National Park | Canyonlands National Park |
| 3 | Newspaper Rock | Indian Creek, Bears Ears National Monument |
| 4 | Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum | Blanding |
| 5 | Hovenweep National Monument | Southeast of Blanding |
| 6 | Monument Valley Tour with Goulding’s Lodge | Monument Valley |
| 7 | Forrest Gump Hill | Highway 163 between Monument Valley and Mexican Hat |
| 8 | Goosenecks State Park | Near Mexican Hat |
| 9 | Natural Bridges National Monument | West of Blanding |
| 10 | House on Fire | Cedar Mesa, Bears Ears National Monument |
Needles Overlook
Sitting on a rock cliff 1,600 feet (487.68 m) above the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park, Needles Overlook offers nearly 360-degree views of the park below. The views are just as spectacular as Island in the Sky and Dead Horse Point State Park but without the crowds. In fact, it’s possible that you’ll have the whole place to yourself! (No entrance fee)
Needles District of Canyonlands National Park
The Needles District of Canyonlands National Park is named for an area of tall, slender sandstone towers, which harbors miles of interconnecting trails and stunning scenery. Needles Campground, Wooden Shoe Arch Overlook, Cave Spring, Roadside Ruin and Big Spring Canyon Overlook are all found on paved park roads. Short walks, day hikes and longer backpacking opportunities abound.
Newspaper Rock, Indian Creek / Bears Ears National Monument
Located in Bears Ears National Monument near the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park, this large petroglyph panel has carvings dating back more than 1,500 years. The 200-square-foot Wingate sandstone panel is covered with more than 650 symbols representing nearly 2,000 years of human history. This panel is easily accessible from the parking area and requires only a short walk to view.
Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum
This world-class museum is a hidden gem in the Four Corners Region. As a federal, archeological repository, the museum is home to one of the largest and most comprehensive collections of Ancestral Pueblo artifacts in the Four Corners Region. It’s also home of Edge of the Cedars Pueblo, a one-thousand-year-old Ancestral Pueblo village site, which is located behind the museum. The park hosts special exhibits, lectures and programs throughout the year.
Hovenweep National Monument
Built between A.D. 1200 and 1300, Hovenweep was once home to over 2,500 people. Explore the variety of unique structures at the six prehistoric villages that make up Hovenweep National Monument. Hikes from the Visitor Center range from a 300-yard (274.32 m) paved walk to the Stronghold House, to a 1.5-mile (2.41 km) loop trail that takes visitors past structures in and along Little Ruin Canyon such as Hovenweep Castle, Square Tower, Hovenweep House and Twin Towers. Ranger-led Dark Sky Astronomy Programs are offered spring through fall, weather permitting. Call ahead for details.
Monument Valley Tour with Goulding’s Lodge
Start your day in Monument Valley by taking in the sunrise, then schedule a tour with one of the many tour companies in the valley. Tours highlight the Navajo culture and history of the area, as well as Monument Valley’s many appearances in films, particularly the John Wayne/John Ford Western movies. Finish off your visit with a stop at the local gift shops, vendor village or vendor booths for handmade jewelry and artwork.
Forrest Gump Hill
Monument Valley is not only one of the most photographed places on Earth but it has also been the backdrop for many Hollywood films. Stop at Forrest Gump Point on Highway 163 between Monument Valley and Mexican Hat where Forrest ended his cross-country run in the movie. It only takes a few minutes to take your own picture and create a memory.
Goosenecks State Park
This breathtaking overlook on the San Juan River highlights the largest entrenched river meander in North America. From the overlook, visitors can see where the river twists and turns through the ‘goosenecks’ as it flows toward Lake Powell, traveling over 6 miles (9.66 km) while advancing west just 1 mile (1.61 km).
Natural Bridges National Monument
Natural Bridges National Monument was designated Utah’s first National Monument in 1908. At Natural Bridges, visitors can view three natural bridges (Kachina, Owachomo, and Sipapu) from overlooks along Bridge View Drive, a paved 9-mile (14.48 km) loop road, or by short hikes from each trailhead. For those who are looking for a longer hike, an 8.6-mile (13.84 km) loop trail will take you past and/or under all three bridges. Ranger-led Dark Sky Astronomy Programs are offered spring through fall. Call ahead for details.
House on Fire, Cedar Mesa / Bears Ears National Monument
House on Fire is the first archaeological site located along the trail in the South Fork of Mule Canyon. To capture the picturesque flames above the house, it’s best to do this hike in the late morning when the light reflects off the opposite wall of the canyon. Continuing past House on Fire, several additional archaeological sites can be seen. Some are easily accessible and others can be viewed from the trail as they are nestled high in the canyon walls. The trailhead for this hike is located on County Road 263 just off Hwy 95.
#RecreateResponsibly in Utah’s Canyon Country
Utah’s Canyon Country is home to many wonderful destinations and experiences. From wide-open spaces to historic neighborhoods, please remember to #RecreateResponsibly. When you visit, follow Leave No Trace and Visit With Respect principles so everyone can have the opportunity for years to come to visit these amazing sights.
- Plan ahead and prepare for your adventures
- Stay on designated trails
- Leave artifacts where you spot them
- Do not enter any archaeological structures
- Do not eat near sites and pack out what you pack in
- Properly dispose of human and pet waste
- Leave historic sites and rock art untouched
- Respect and be aware of wildlife
- Keep dogs on leashes at all times
Questions about planning your trip? Call 800-574-4386.