Field Trips

Questions?

If you need help with self-guided field trip logistics, please reach out to the Canyonlands Education Team.

 

NPS/Kirsten Kearse

Let Canyonlands National Park become your outdoor classroom! A variety of opportunities are avilable to educational groups visiting the park.

Please be aware that ranger program schedules and visitor center hours of operation change throughout the year.

Academic Fee Waivers

Canyonlands collects a park entrance fee, but education groups may apply for an academic fee waiver. Fee waivers do not affect campground or permit fees that a group may incur.

Transportation

Canyonlands does not have a shuttle bus system; visitors must provide their own transportation in the park.

Island in the Sky

Large vehicles like school buses or rental coaches can drive the entire scenic road. Vehicles over 25 feet in total length at Island in the Sky can park at the Visitor Center, Shafer Canyon Overlook, Grand View Point, and Green River Overlook. They may experience difficulties parking in all other locations.

The Needles

Vehicles over 25 feet in total length at The Needles are only permitted to travel on the paved scenic drive and may park at the Needles Visitor Center, Big Spring Canyon Overlook, Pothole Point, Stone Storehouse, and the Slickrock trailhead. Parking may be available in other locations, but drivers must ensure their vehicle only occupies one space and does not block any part of the road.

Ranger Programs

Spring through fall, ranger programs are offered to the public on a regular schedule. There is no need to pre-register for short guided walks, patio talks or campground talks. At this time, we cannot accommodate requests for special private tours.

Hiking

Non-commercial educational groups may hike together on all park trails. For groups larger than 20 people, breaking into smaller groups is appreciated by other hikers.

The following trails are recommended for self-guided field trips:

Island in the Sky

• Grand View Point Trail* (trail goes along a canyon rim)
• Mesa Arch Trail
• White Rim Overlook Trail
• Upheaval Dome overlooks

The Needles

• Pothole Point Trail
• Slickrock Trail

Camping

The Needles Campground offers three campsites for groups of 11 or more people that may be reserved in advance. Additional sites at The Needles Campground or Island in the Sky Campground are available first-come, first-served. Educational fee waivers do not affect these fees.

Backcountry

Non-commercial educational groups may also obtain a permit to occupy a backcountry campsite. Educational fee waivers do not affect these permit fees.

River Trips

Academic institutions may need a special use permit for river trips. Please review the criteria for organized groups. Educational fee waivers do not affect these permit fees.