Auto Touring

Unpaved Roads

There are hundreds of miles of unpaved roads in Canyonlands, providing access to various campsites, trailheads, and viewpoints in the park's backcountry. Most roads require high-clearance, low range four-wheel-drive. These roads range in difficulty from intermediate to extremely technical. Research your route thoroughly before attempting these roads.

• White Rim Road at Island in the Sky (moderate)
• Four-wheel-drive Roads at The Needles (moderate to technical)
• Four-wheel-drive Roads at The Maze (mostly technical)

If you plan to enjoy the park's four-wheel-drive roads, please be aware of the following:

• A high-clearance, low range four-wheel-drive vehicle is required on the White Rim Road and all backcountry roads at The Needles and The Maze. Other vehicles with two-wheel drive or all-wheel drive do not have the ground clearance or low gearing to negotiate the rough slickrock, loose rocks, deep sand and steep switchbacks found on these roads. 
• All vehicles must remain on designated roads.
• ATVs, UTVs and OHVs are not permitted.  Motorbikes must be equipped and licensed for interstate travel.
• All vehicles must be registered and operated by a licensed driver.
• Pets are not permitted, even in the vehicle.
• Road conditions can change quickly following rain or snow. Check road conditions.
• Pack it in—pack it out. Vault toilets are scarce; it's advised (and sometimes required) to bring your own human waste management method. Do not bury human waste or trash in Canyonlands' backcountry.