This Off-The-Beaten-Path Hiking Trail In Utah Is The Perfect Place To Escape
By Courtnie Erickson|Published July 11, 2023
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Courtnie Erickson
Author
From Southern Utah to the Panhandle in Idaho, Courtnie Erickson has lived in what she believes are the best (and the most beautiful!) areas in the country. She graduated with a journalism degree from Utah State University and has more than 15 years of professional writing experience. You’ll likely see her with a Dr. Pepper in her hand and a pair of running shoes on her feet. Courtnie is a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState.
Escaping the crowds when in one of Utah’s national parks doesn’t seem possible. Utah’s parks are some of the busiest in the entire country and it can be a bit challenging to find some time alone. But, off-the-beaten-path in Canyonlands National Park is one hiking trail where few crowds are possible — the Joint Trail. This trail features a few challenging areas and is four miles long, but the views are remarkable. In fact, this may be the escape you are searching for and deserve.
Canyonlands National Park is divided into several districts: Island in the Sky, the Needles, the Maze, and its rivers. Each area offers something different but many people tend to venture to Island in the Sky, making it one of the busiest districts in the park.
For today’s adventure, you’ll want to head to the Needles. This district is located in the southeast corner of the park and the stunning Cedar Mesa Sandstone spires are found all throughout the area. However, many people typically don't explore this area of the park as there are very few paved roads, and permits are needed to access many of the roads.
However, here, you will find the Joint Trail. You will find the trailhead off Butler Flat Road, which is a dirt road. You will need a high-clearance, four-wheel drive vehicle to reach the trailhead, and be patient as it will take some time to get there.
This trail is actually part of the Chesler Park Loop Trail, which is approximately 10 miles long and a full-day hiking trip. The Joint Trail is just one small section that makes for a much shorter adventure.
You will begin your adventure by hiking through the desert. Make sure you bring lots of water and wear sun protection as you will need it on this trek.
The Joint Trail takes you through deep and narrow fractures in the rock. It is essentially a small slot canyon that is beautiful in every way.
For an off-the-beaten-path adventure, explore the Joint Trail and hike through the slot canyon. It’s the perfect place to escape.
For more information on this trail, the Needles, and Canyonlands National Park, visit the National Park Service website.
Have you hiked the Joint Trail in Canyonlands National Park? What was your experience like? Let us know in the comments!
If you plan on hiking the Joint Trail or any others in Canyonlands National Park, make sure you come prepared! Check out our ultimate hiking packing list featuring 75 must-have accessories.
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