Winter days tend to be bright and sunny, though nighttime temperatures can dip into the teens or subzeros. Visitors coming in winter should inquire about travel conditions, as snow and ice occasionally close roads and trails at the higher elevations. Island in the Sky District has paved roads on its top to impressive overlooks and to Upheaval Dome, a strange geologic feature. If you're short on time or don't want to make a rigorous backcountry trip, you'll find this district the best choice. Hikers and those with suitable vehicles can drop off the Island in the Sky and descend about 1,300 feet to the White Rim 4WD Road, which follows cliffs of the White Rim around most of the Island.
Few visitors make it over to the Maze District, some of the wildest country in the United States.
Only the rivers and a handful of 4WD roads and hiking trails provide access. Horseshoe Canyon Unit, a detached section of Canyonlands National Park northwest of the Maze District, protects the Great Gallery, a group of pictographs left by prehistoric Indians. Needles District Colorful rock spires prompted the name of the Needles District. Splendid canyons contain many arches, strange rock formations, and archaeological sites. Hikers enjoy day hikes and backpack treks on the network of well-marked trails and routes within the district.