Plan your visit
Plan Your Canyonlands Trip
Preparation is critical for the backcountry. There are no services, no cell reception, and zero potable water on the trail.
Canyonlands National Park 4x4 and Backcountry Tours
Grand View Point Rd, Moab
GPS 38.4598, -109.821
Open directionsGetting there
Getting to the trailheads.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tour: Book a guided 4x4 expedition departing from Moab via operators like Navtec or Rim Tours. | 9 hours to 4 days | $298 - $900+ | Includes a professional guide, meals, and necessary National Park permits. Most tours require meeting at the outfitter's office in Moab. |
| Car: Drive your own high-clearance 4WD vehicle with low-range transfer case to the Island in the Sky district via UT-313. | 2-3 days for the full loop | $30 park entry + permit fees | Requires securing your own day-use or overnight permits on Recreation.gov well in advance. All-Wheel Drive (AWD) vehicles are not allowed. |
When to go
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QuietModerateBusyPeak
April, May, September, and October offer the best conditions. Summer temperatures reach dangerous highs. Winter brings hazardous ice to the steep switchbacks.
What to bring
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AWD vehicles are strictly banned.
You must use a high-clearance 4WD with low range.
How the day runs
Suggested itineraries for different schedules.
A quick morning trip down the Shafer Trail.
- Depart Moab
Drive 40 minutes to the Island in the Sky entrance.
- Shafer Trail Switchbacks
Descend 1,500 feet via tight hairpin turns.
- Gooseneck Overlook
Stop for top-down views of the Colorado River.
- Musselman Arch
Walk to the edge of the flat, bridge-like stone arch.
- Return
Head back up the Shafer Trail to the paved road.
A long, continuous drive covering the main viewpoints.
- Start Early
Begin the descent via Shafer Trail.
- Lathrop Canyon
Take the spur road down to the Colorado River.
- White Crack
Stop at the southernmost tip for panoramic views.
- Murphy Hogback
Navigate the steep ridgeline climb in low gear.
- Mineral Bottom
Exit via steep switchbacks connecting to Highway 313.
Survival essentials
You must bring abundant drinking water. The park requires at least one gallon per person per day. If you drive yourself, carry a full-size spare tire, a jack, and vehicle recovery gear.
Groups are limited to 3 vehicles and 15 people for day-use. Pets are strictly prohibited everywhere in the backcountry.
Easiest way to do it
Canyonlands National Park: White Rim Backcountry Tour
9 h 4.9 (219)
- Ice Water (please bring a personal water bottle)
- Professional guide
- Buffet Style Lunch
- Transport by 4x4 vehicle
From$360per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
Is the White Rim Road dangerous to drive?
It can be dangerous without proper gear. Sections like Murphy Hogback and Hardscrabble Hill are steep and technical. Winter ice and summer heat increase risks significantly.
Are there bathrooms or toilets on the White Rim Trail?
There are vault toilets at designated backcountry campsites. For areas without toilets, you must carry personal wag bags for solid human waste.
What happens if you get a flat tire or break down in Canyonlands?
You are responsible for your own recovery. There is zero cell service. Towing from the backcountry costs thousands of dollars.