If you are looking to visit the greater Canyonlands, you need to know that the area has several distinct districts that offer different opportunities for sightseeing and adventure. There are also many historical sites that are worth seeing. In addition to the historical sites, the region has a large amount of natural beauty. The region is filled with rivers, canyons, and other geological features that make it an ideal destination for outdoor activities.
The most popular sections of the park include Island in the Sky, the Needles, and the Maze. Each of these districts has unique scenery that will impress you. Some areas have been untouched since the earliest human settlers, while others have been extensively developed. You can find hiking trails, biking routes, and even helicopter tours.
The Island in the Sky district has a great number of trails to explore. It is located on a massive mesa that sits between the Colorado and Green Rivers. You can enjoy sweeping views of the area from the top of the mesa. This section is less populated, but there are a number of excellent overlooks that offer breathtaking vistas of the area.
Another area in Canyonlands that is unique is Aztec Butte. This dome-shaped mountain offers a short, easy hike with steep, exposed sections that can get hot in summer. You will also find no shade in the area. The area is also known for its rugged terrain.
While the Islands in the Sky are popular, The Needles is a more remote area. This area is accessed from US-191 and offers camping and other opportunities for exploring.
Aside from the scenic scenery, you can also see a variety of archaeological sites. Archaeological evidence shows that people were living in this part of the world at least 12,000 years ago. The Cowboy Cave in Horseshoe Canyon displays dung that was left by bison. Also, there are galleries of ancient art in the region. These artifacts date to between 7400 and 5000 B.C. During the Archaic Period, the Ancestral Puebloan people dominated the region. Their agriculture and bow and arrow skills enabled them to adapt to the arid canyons of the area.
Other archaeological sites are located in the Needles district. One of these sites is the Home of Truth. Although this site is privately owned, there is a sign over the entrance that describes the history of the place. In the future, it may be open to the public.
When you are planning your trip to Canyonlands, you can use the online Canyonlands Interactive Map to find the best things to do. This map will also help you navigate between the various areas of the park. Simply click on an icon to view more information. Alternatively, you can zoom in using your computer mouse. By clicking on an arrow in the top left corner of the map, you will also be able to save it to Google Maps.
You can find detailed information about the different places to explore and their hours in the online guide. Be sure to also check out the information on special events that are scheduled in the area.
