Canyonlands National Park spans 337,598 acres of colorful canyons, mesas, buttes, fins, arches, and spires in the heart of southeast Utah's high desert. Split into three distinct districts with no roads that directly link them together, there's plenty to explore whether you choose to visit Island in the Sky, The Maze, or The Needles.

Note: Canyonlands - especially The Maze District - is a very remote area, perhaps the most remote I've visited. Plan accordingly. There is no fuel or water for miles, carry plenty of extra. If you are travelling alone, be extremely cautious - if you get stuck out here, it could be many days before someone else comes along to help.

If you do decide to go to Canyonlands National Park, you're definitely going to need a National Park pass, and are likely to need a permit - both for day use as well as camping. Of course, calling ahead to understand current road conditions is a must as well.

• Canyonlands entrance fee - while there are no fee booths at the entrance, your entrance fee is what helps to maintain the park. It's a small price to pay for the enjoyment you will receive. Additionally, as the visitor population in Canyonlands is reasonably well regulated, Park Rangers will almost always ask to see your pass.
• Permits for backcountry use - this includes day use permits, overnight backcountry permits, and campground permits. As with your entrance fee, expect to run into at least one Park Ranger who will ask to see your paperwork.
• Current road conditions - things can change quickly in the wilderness.