Day 5: Discovering Hidden Gems and Breathtaking Vistas
Canyon Views, Gorgeous Light, And Pasta
Upheavel Trail
Canyonlands was one of my top two favorite parks out of the six we visited during this vacation. While the Grand Canyon garners all the spotlight and hype as the must-see national park everyone talks about before they die, I have a confession to make. In my humble opinion, and since this is my blog, I think it’s just another big hole in Arizona.
Now, don’t get me wrong. Canyonlands is awe-inspiring and even grander in its own way. It’s like the cool, underrated cousin of the Grand Canyon. Less crowded, more mysterious, and surprisingly accessible for those willing to venture off the beaten path.
We left the hotel in the dark because apparently, that’s a theme for this trip. Does anyone see a pattern here? The drive to the park took just over 40 minutes, which was the perfect amount of time for me to enjoy a protein drink and a large cup of java. I had done my homework on the best trails and sunrise spots within the park, so we headed straight for the Grandview Point parking lot. It’s a cozy little lot that fills up faster than you can say "photographer's paradise," so arriving early was critical.
Unfortunately, our plans to stop at Mesa Arch were dashed because the parking lot was already full long before sunrise. I get it, Mesa Arch is famous for being a selfie’s favorite backdrop, but with the crowds it attracts, it would have been packed with photographers and their tripods. Most likely blocking the view for everyone else. We will come back for sunset, the less traveled time.
Here’s a little-known fact about Canyonlands: as you drive down the ridgeline, you can catch glimpses of the deep canyons off in the distance. In the dark it appears as if nothing is out on the horizon. The landscape is open grazing land for cattle, which led to my giggle-worthy realization that the signs warning about “watch for cows” might be more common than “speed limit.” It’s like a deleted scene from the movie Twister every time you see one. Once daylight came we were surprised to see exactly how many black angus were grazing next to the roadway.
When we finally stepped out of the car and approached the Grandview lookout point as the sun began to rise, the full grandeur of the park was revealed. It’s a geological masterpiece, and I was in awe. My husband, who had never heard of this park before I planned our trip, looked at me with a mix of surprise and admiration. I felt like a travel genius who had just pulled a rabbit out of my pocket.
Watching the Colorado River snake through the canyons as we started our trek along the Rim Trail was a highlight. The trail was clearly marked with stacks of three stones which apparently is a universal trail marker. Without those little cairns, we might have wandered aimlessly into the abyss.
The day was warm and crystal-clear, not exactly prime for perfect photos, but honestly, who cares? We were witnessing the power of wind, water, and time sculpting this incredible landscape. It’s humbling and inspiring all at once.
We doubled back as the Grandview Point is the the end of the ridge road. Nope no dramatic “Thelma and Louise” moments here, I promise! If you know, you know. As we headed back, we decided to take a few detours to explore other vista points.
Later in the afternoon, as the Mesa Arch parking lot finally cleared out, we snagged a spot, grabbed our water bottles, and set off to explore. Arches National Park is famous for its multiple arches, but Mesa Arch is truly a showstopper. Bathed in late afternoon light, it’s a photographer’s dream, especially since we managed to find a quiet time with few people around. I set up my camera to capture the valley below framed perfectly by the massive arch. I think I nailed the “money shot,” as my husband affectionately calls my hero images.
He’s good for my ego, after all. We’ve been together for 32 years, which means he’s basically a keeper. Plus, he’s learned the art of complimenting my photography skills, even if he secretly prefers his own hobbies.
One thing to keep in mind is that the park’s accessibility on the canyon floor is limited to 4x4 vehicles that plan to stay overnight. Traversing the area takes at least two days, and I can only imagine how it handles when the rains come and turn everything into a muddy, slippery mess. I’m from Montana and understand what driving and camping in that would be like.
A short drive back into Moab allowed us time to reflect on the day. All in all, we had a fantastic visit. Both of us agree you should skip the crowded Grand Canyon and make Canyonlands your next destination. It’s a hidden gem that promises adventure, stunning views, and a good dose of humor along the way.
The prior day we had spotted a small, but authentic Italian restaurant with a line around the corner of patrons awaiting a table. Opting for a quick bite, we decided to come back and chose an early arrival time. A short 15-minute wait was definitely worth the wait before we enjoyed an amazing pasta meal with a glass of wine to cheer to another experience. Typically I would feel guilty and choose a healthier option, but a girl’s got to live after hiking another full day. The daily special of clams in red sauce over fresh linguine hit the spot.
Mesa Arch
Canyonlands = 4.22 miles hiked