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Lookout · Moab, Utah
Island in the Sky
The part of Arches National Park closest to Moab is a mesa over 1,800 meters high with overlooks over the canyons of the Colorado and Green rivers, including Mesa Arch and Grand View Point.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Island in the Sky
Island in the Sky is a high, flat mesa that juts like a peninsula over the canyons of Canyonlands, between the Colorado and Green rivers, which meet farther south. It’s the easiest part of the park to visit, with a paved road that connects the entrance to the overlooks, about an hour from Moab.
The overlooks sit at the mesa edge, about 360 meters above an intermediate bench, the White Rim, and much higher above the rivers. Mesa Arch is a low arch right on the edge, about 400 meters from the parking area, which at sunrise lights from below and frames the canyons. Grand View Point, at the southern end, has the widest view, and the Green River Overlook shows the Green River winding far below.
Upheaval Dome, a crater whose origin is still debated by geologists, lies at the end of a spur road. The White Rim Road, a dirt track that descends to the bench, requires a 4x4 vehicle and a permit.
The park’s other districts, The Needles and The Maze, are hours away by car on other roads.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Half a day to a day.
Best time
At sunrise at Mesa Arch; at the other overlooks, in the late afternoon. In spring and fall, days are more pleasant.
How to get there
From Moab, take US-191 north and County Road 313, about 50 km to the entrance. The same road leads to Dead Horse Point State Park.
Tip
There is little infrastructure inside the park: bring water and food and refuel in Moab.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Island in the Sky
Which part of Canyonlands should I visit from Moab?
Island in the Sky, about an hour’s drive, with paved road and overlooks close to the parking areas. The Needles and The Maze are much farther away.
When should I go to Mesa Arch?
At sunrise, when light illuminates the arch from below. The spot is small and fills up at that time; arrive before dawn.
How long does it take from Moab to Island in the Sky?
About 45 minutes to an hour’s drive to the entrance, and another half hour to the southern overlooks.