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. Drivers with 4WD vehicles have their own challenging roads through canyons and other highly scenic areas. Overlooks and short nature trails can be enjoyed from the paved scenic drive in the park. A highway branching off US 191 south of Moab provides easy access to the Needles District. The River District includes long stretches of the Green and Colorado.