Canyonlands National Park is one of many of Utah's scenic gotta-see national parks. When 'those in the know' speak of Canyonlands they clarify it according to districts. There are three, each very different: Island in the Sky, Needles and the Maze.

I visited Island in the Sky first, so most of the beginning pictures were taken there. This area is so called because of its geographical layout. Actually, it should be called Peninsula in the Sky, but that doesn't sound as cool. On a map (I provided one below), you'll see a very small passageway, about the size of a two-lane bridge, that separates ISKY from the rest of the park. This is called The Neck. Once you cross over , you're on a vast plateau or mesa surrounded by deep, deep canyons. Hence, Island in the Sky. The only access to ISKY is by way of The Neck.

And even more interesting is that, as in all canyons, the wind and rain are gradually wearing away the sandstone at The Neck, where the canyon on either side makes it so vulnerable. Eventually, but hopefully not in our lifetime, The Neck will be worn away, cutting off access to the stunning beauty we are able to see now.

Needles is named for the many cone-like formations that form a perfect skyline.

The Maze is the least accessible part of the park, and a four-wheel drive is needed to explore its vast range.