State: Utah
Location: Canyonlands National Park
Length, Round Trip: 1 miles
Trail Type: Out and Back
Minimum Elevation: 5780 feet
Maximum Elevation: 5830 feet
Best Season: Spring, Fall
Difficulty: Easy
Usage: Heavy
Trail Information
The Upheaval Dome Overlook Trail is a short, easy trail heading to two overlooks on the southern rim of Upheaval Dome. This large crater was initially thought to be the product of a salt dome uplift. Today new theories contemplate the idea of the crater as the site where a meteor fell to the Earth’s surface. In either case, it’s among the most peculiar geological features in the world.
The trail begins from the Upheaval Dome parking area and winds along the southeastern rim of the crater. The overlook trail continues west atop the slick rock, marked with cairns. All along the way, outstanding views are seen, including gazes into the maw of the crater. There are two overlooks accessible to hikers along this trail. Both provide excellent views of the crater and the surrounding canyon lands.
Directions
From Island in the Sky Visitor Center:
Drive south on Utah 313 approximately for about 7.25 miles to the junction of Main Island Road and Upheaval Dome Road. Bear right at this junction and drive 5.5 miles to the parking area for Upheaval Dome.
