Utah // 11, 14 October
Canyonlands has four different areas, all accessed via different entries to the park. We spent a day at Islands in the Sky, which is near Dead Horse Point State Park, and the highest elevation in Canyonlands. A few days later we visited The Needles for the annular eclipse, as it was one of the closest locations to us in the path of the eclipse.
Islands in the Sky – Mesa Arch… A very popular Insta spot.
Islands in the Sky – Grand View Point… A stunning cliff top trail to Grand View Point. This is definitely one of the most spectacular hikes we’ve done. At the end point you take in views on one side to the Colorado River, the other side the Green River, and south to The Needles. Even though the path was wide it was thrilling walking along the canyon edge. The rock formations were amazing.
The Needles – Annular eclipse… The Needles area was very different to Islands in the Sky as here you’re at the bottom of the canyons. The drive in was gorgeous surrounded by rock formations. We were some of the last few people let into the park as it was already at capacity at 9.30am, one hour before the eclipse was due to begin. We were so lucky as we’d driven over an hour to get here. We joined the crowd patiently waiting on the rocks above the visitor centre. The Rangers has special eclipse glasses for everyone.
The Needles – Exploring… After some of the crowd cleared we were allowed to enter the park. We explored and did a short hike at The Potholes.
