Named for the legendary builders of Stonehenge in England, Druid Arch is among the most memorable geologic formations in Canyonlands. Thus it makes one of the park’s top hikes. Even though it is popular, the journey to the arch is rather challenging. The out-and-back route covers 10 miles through remote and desolate desert, where all hikers need to be self sufficient and able to navigate the wilderness.

With rocks to scramble on, caves to poke into, and Western history you can see, Cave Spring is the perfect trail for families with energetic children. Anyone seeking a short but somewhat adventurous hike will enjoy it, and especially those interested in the past. You’ll find an authentic cowboy camp in one of the rock alcoves, with lots of artifacts like tools, tables, and cookware. Beneath a different overhang you can even find Native American rock art that predates the cowboys.

The Slickrock Trail in Canyonlands is a perfect example of a slickrock landscape, with wavy sandstone underfoot and all around, on a plateau bounded by near-vertical canyons. With few trees to obstruct the views, scenery is incredible every step of the way. You’ll see down into the gorges, across to mesas and mountains on the horizon, and over to the tower-like pinnacles that give The Needles District its name.

At the end of the road in Needles District, near Big Spring Canyon Overlook, is where the Confluence Overlook trail begins. This is a hike for geology enthusiasts and desert lovers. It crosses canyons and faultlines en route to a cliff-top view of the Green and Colorado Rivers. The overlook is truly spectacular––1000 feet straight down to the meeting of two mighty desert rivers. This is the heart of Canyonlands.