Grand View Point Guide
Grand View Point: Where Canyonlands Unfolds Before You Guide
Grand View Point, aptly named, offers arguably the most panoramic and accessible views within Canyonlands National Park's Island in the Sky district. Perched at the southern tip of the mesa, this easily reachable overlook provides a breathtaking 360-degree vista of the park's dramatic landscape. Prepare to be mesmerized by the intricate network of canyons carved by the Colorado and Green Rivers, the towering mesas, and the distant La Sal Mountains piercing the horizon. It's a photographer's dream and a must-see for anyone visiting Canyonlands. Geologically, the landscape before you is a testament to millions of years of erosion. The canyons were gradually sculpted by the relentless forces of water and wind, exposing layers of sedimentary rock that tell a story of ancient seas and shifting landscapes. The point itself sits atop the White Rim Sandstone, a prominent layer that forms a distinctive "white rim" around many of the mesas in the area. This geological history adds another layer of appreciation to the already stunning scenery. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the paved Grand View Point Trail, a relatively flat and easy 2-mile roundtrip hike that hugs the rim of the canyon. Several viewpoints along the trail offer different perspectives of the landscape. It's an excellent opportunity for families and those with limited mobility to experience the grandeur of Canyonlands. Be sure to bring water, sunscreen, and a hat, as the desert sun can be intense, even on cooler days. Sunrise and sunset are particularly spectacular times to visit, as the changing light casts dramatic shadows across the canyons.
Transportation
Grand View Point is located at the end of Grand View Point Road, which is accessed from the main Island in the Sky road within Canyonlands National Park. The drive from the Island in the Sky Visitor Center is approximately 15 minutes. There is ample parking available at the trailhead. No public transportation options are available within the park.