Backcountry

 

Choose Your Adventure

Wondering what you can do in the Canyonlands backcountry? This is the page for you. To have a safe and enjoyable trip, you will need to prepare and plan ahead. Use this page to plan your trip; learn about Leave No Trace, safety, and regulations; and get a permit.

 

 

Things to Do

 
an orange Jeep driving over a steep, rocky surface
Four-Wheel-Driving

There are hundreds of miles four-wheel-drive roads in the park. You may need a permit on some of these roads.

a group of bicyclists on a gravel road
Biking

Mountain bikers may travel any of the hundreds of miles of roads in the park. You may need a permit to ride some of these roads.

a backpacker stands on a ledge overlooking a canyon
Hiking and Backpacking

Canyonlands has hundreds of miles of hiking trails with designated backcountry campsites. You will need a permit for overnight trips.

a white boat on a river with rapids
Boating

The Green and Colorado rivers offer miles of both flat-water and white-water boating. Permits are required.

Ranger assists a visitor at the permits desk.
Permit Information

Permits are required for all overnight and some day-use backcountry, river, four-wheel-drive vehicle, bicycle, and motorcycle trips.

Two signs at the beginning of a trail outline important information.
Regulations

You are responsible for knowing and following all General Backcountry, River, Horse and Pack, and Toilet regulations on your trip.

Three boaters scout a large rapid from the riverbank
Boating Information Guide

Check out our complete guide to help you plan and prepare for your river trip at Canyonlands.

 
three hikers on smooth sandstone in front of looming red cliffs
Backcountry & River Videos

Helpful tips and advice provided in these videos will help you plan your trip and Leave No Trace while out in these pristine areas.

 

Don't Forget:

 

Last updated: April 29, 2025

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

2282 Resource Blvd.
Moab, UT 84532

Phone:

435-719-2313

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