Road Status

We do our best to update this page in a timely manner. However, if you're headed into the park and current conditions raise doubts about the accuracy of this information, please contact us.

 

ISLAND IN THE SKY

Scenic Drive: open
Shafer Trail: open
(During the winter months, adverse weather conditions can prompt closure of the Shafer Trail at a moment's notice. Please contact the park at 435-719-2100 or 435-259-4712 to check road status before you begin your trip. If the Shafer Trail is impassable, visitors must use Hwy 279/Potash Road or the Mineral Bottom Road to access the White Rim Road. White Rim permits may be picked up at park headquarters in Moab (2282 Resource Blvd) Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
Mineral Bottom: open
White Rim Road: open

 

THE NEEDLES

Scenic Drive: open
Elephant Hill Access Road: open
Colorado River Overlook: open (can become impassable when wet.)
Elephant Hill: open
Lavender Canyon: open
Salt Creek/Horse Canyon: passable

Note
Even when rated as "passable," conditions on these roads are challenging. Depending on the season, you can expect ice, up to two feet of water, quicksand, and/or debris in the wash that must be negotiated while staying within the boundary of the wash. We recommend traveling in groups of two or more vehicles - both with winches - in order to facilitate self-rescue. Park rangers are unable to winch vehicles out; see note about commercial towing fees at the bottom of the page. Please check at the Needles Visitor Center for permit availability and current conditions.

 

THE MAZE

Highway 24 to Hans Flat: Low-clearance, two-wheel drive.
Horseshoe Canyon: Low-clearance, two-wheel drive.
Hans Flat to top of Flint Trail: High-clearance, two-wheel drive.
Flint Trail: High-clearance, four-wheel drive.
Land of Standing Rocks to Hite: High-clearance, four-wheel drive.

 

Backcountry Travel Advisory
Backcountry driving conditions can change rapidly after rain or snow. High-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended. All drivers should carry the following items:

• At least one full-size spare tire
• Extra gas
• Extra water
• Shovel
• High-lift jack
• Chains for all four tires (especially from October through April)

Drive Carefully!
Visitors caught in the backcountry with disabled vehicles can expect commercial towing fees in excess of $1,000. Most backcountry roads in Canyonlands require high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicles.