Named for the colorful spires of Cedar Mesa sandstone that dominate the area, the Needles District of
Canyonlands National Park offers visitors an extensive trail system for hiking, backpacking, and four-wheel-driving.
Named for the colorful spires of Cedar Mesa sandstone that dominate the area, the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park offers visitors an extensive trail system for hiking, backpacking, and four-wheel-driving. All trails lead to breathtaking views of some of the most famous sites in the district, such as Elephant Hill, Tower Ruin, Confluence Overlook, and the Druid Arch. Hikers can check out the famous Slickrock Trail, get a closer look at the spires at Chesler Park, or take a more challenging backcountry route to the arches at Horse Canyon.
An easy family-friendly drive to the Big Spring Canyon Overlook provides an expansive view of the Needles, while four-wheel-drivers may prefer the more adventurous trail to the Colorado River Overlook. Travelers who'd like more time to explore the beauty of the Needles can set up camp at the Squaw Flat campground, which is open year-round and provides bathrooms, fire grates, picnic tables, tent pads, and water, and easy access to trail heads.
