Getting to Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands National Park sits in UT, United States, with Moab the nearest town of any size — about 33 mi (53.1 km) out, or roughly 1 hr 9 min of driving.
Canyonlands National Park does not gate the entrance itself. Specific roads, hikes, or tours still need a permit or timed ticket.
Drive times from Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands National Park sits close enough to Arches National Park, Capitol Reef National Park, Mesa Verde National Park, and Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park that one drive from home can cover more than one park.
| Park | Apart | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| Arches National Park | 38.5 mi (61.9 km) | 1 hr 18 min |
| Capitol Reef National Park | 67.3 mi (108 km) | 2 hr 3 min |
| Mesa Verde National Park | 106 mi (170 km) | 2 hr 57 min |
| Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park | 122 mi (197 km) | 3 hr 21 min |
Towns to base yourself in
| Town | Distance | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| Moab | 33 mi (53.1 km) | 1 hr 9 min |
| Monticello | 39.2 mi (63.1 km) | 1 hr 19 min |
| Blanding | 46.7 mi (75.2 km) | 1 hr 32 min |
| Ferron | 89.6 mi (144 km) | 2 hr 34 min |
| Castle Dale | 91.3 mi (147 km) | 2 hr 37 min |
| Orangeville | 93.3 mi (150 km) | 2 hr 40 min |
| Loa | 93.9 mi (151 km) | 2 hr 40 min |
| Huntington | 95.7 mi (154 km) | 2 hr 43 min |
How to read these numbers
Distances are straight-line between the town and the park centre. Drive estimates add a road factor and an average speed, which is close enough for planning but wrong wherever mountains, ferries, or seasonal closures are involved.
Inside a large park, getting from the entrance to the part you came to see can add another hour or more.
Region pages
Common questions
What is the closest town to Canyonlands National Park?
Moab, about 33 mi (53.1 km) away — roughly 1 hr 9 min of driving.
Where should I stay when visiting Canyonlands National Park?
The practical bases are Moab, Monticello, and Blanding — all within a reasonable drive of the park.