Afternoon Canyonlands Island In The Sky 4X4 Tour

If you’re visiting Moab and craving a way to see the stunning landscapes of Canyonlands National Park beyond the typical viewpoint stops, the Afternoon Canyonlands Island In The Sky 4X4 Tour offers an exciting alternative. This half-day adventure takes you deep into the backcountry, exploring rugged trails, scenic viewpoints, and iconic spots like Fossil Point—all from the comfort of a well-equipped Jeep Rubicon. With a high rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 11 reviews, it clearly resonates with travelers looking for an immersive, memorable experience in Utah’s wild terrain.

What we love most about this tour is its focus on authentic off-road exploration combined with the expertise of friendly guides who really know the land. One of the standouts is traversing the Shafer Trail, a legendary switchback road that offers jaw-dropping vistas and a sense of adventure. That said, it’s worth noting that this tour is about four hours long, so travelers should be prepared for a half-day commitment, including some bumpy rides and scenic photo opportunities. It’s ideal for those who want a guided, scenic adventure without the need to navigate on their own—perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking to experience the park from a different perspective.

Key Points

• Authentic off-road experience in Canyonlands’ backcountry
• Expert guides enrich the journey with knowledge and humor
• Scenic viewpoints including Fossil Point and Colorado River vistas
• Iconic routes like the Shafer Trail and White Rim trail
• Accessible and flexible with optional booking and cancellation policies
• Value-driven tour at $210 per person for a memorable four-hour experience

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins right next to the Comfort Suites Hotel in Moab, with plenty of parking available at the main office. This convenient location makes it easy to meet your guide and settle into the comfortable, air-conditioned Jeep. Since it’s a group activity, you’ll be sharing the experience with fellow travelers, but the small group size ensures personalized attention. The tour lasts about four hours, with availability depending on the day, so it’s best to check ahead and plan accordingly.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes an experienced and knowledgeable guide—a key ingredient in making this experience stand out. The guides, like Mark and Ric, receive high praise for their friendly demeanor and deep understanding of the land, sharing stories and insights that bring each stop to life. Also included are ice water and snacks, helping keep everyone refreshed during the ride, and parking is straightforward at the meeting point.

However, travelers should note that park entrance fees are not included**, and you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to Moab. The tour doesn’t provide hotel pickup or drop-off, nor does it include lunch, so packing a snack or meal beforehand is recommended. For families with children, Utah law requires a car infant seat for kids 8 years and under, so plan accordingly if bringing little ones.

Route and Highlights

The journey starts with a scenic drive into the backcountry, soon hitting the Shafer Trail—a road that descends approximately 1,500 feet along a colorful, towering sandstone cliff. This is a highlight for many guests, offering stunning viewpoints and a real sense of adventure. As one reviewer mentioned, “Going in backwards and seeing all the world places,” hints at how unique this route feels, especially since it’s a road historically used by Native Americans, sheep herders, and uranium miners.

Next, the guide takes you to Fossil Point, a spot made famous by the film “Thelma & Louise,” giving you a chance to step into Hollywood history while marveling at the ancient fossils embedded in the rocks. From there, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the Colorado River cutting through steep canyons—an image that sticks with you long after the tour ends. Multiple viewpoints allow for plenty of photo opportunities, so be ready to capture these breathtaking scenes.

The tour also brushes past parts of the White Rim Trail, known for its rugged terrain and panoramic vistas. While the entire White Rim trail is a multi-day adventure, glimpsing parts of it during this tour offers a taste of its grandeur without the commitment of a multi-day trek.

The Off-Road Adventure

The off-road portion is what sets this experience apart. The Jeep Rubicon is well suited for tackling the uneven, rocky terrain, giving you a sense of genuine exploration. The guides expertly navigate the infamous switchbacks of the Shafer Trail, which require precise driving but are handled smoothly, thanks to their local knowledge.

Guests consistently praise the guides—like Mark, who “looked after us” and made the trip enjoyable with his humor and insights. Others appreciated Ric’s storytelling, which added depth to the experience, especially talking about local geology, history, and land usage.

Authentic Views and Unique Stops

Unlike typical park viewpoints, this tour takes you to less accessible spots that you’d struggle to reach on your own. It’s a great way to see hidden corners of Canyonlands and get a sense of its vast, untouched wilderness. Reviewers often mention how they’d never have done such a trip independently, underscoring the value of having a knowledgeable guide to unlock these secret vistas.

The Value and Who It’s For

At $210 per person, the tour offers a well-rounded, guided way to explore Canyonlands without the stress of navigation or planning. It’s especially appealing because it combines adventure, scenic beauty, and educational insights. For those who want to maximize their time in Moab while avoiding the hassle of self-driving or crowded viewpoints, this trip hits the sweet spot.

This experience is best suited for anyone looking for a fun, authentic Utah adventure—from families with older children (who meet safety requirements) to couples seeking memorable views. If you’re a bit nervous about off-roading or have mobility issues, be aware that rough terrain and switchbacks are part of the ride, but the guides work hard to ensure safety and comfort.

Final Reflection

The Afternoon Canyonlands Island In The Sky 4X4 Tour offers a fantastic blend of adventure, scenic beauty, and expert storytelling. It’s a chance to see parts of Canyonlands that few visitors can access without a guide, making it a worthwhile addition to your Moab itinerary. While the four-hour duration keeps things manageable, the experience feels full, with enough stops and stories to satisfy both the adventure seekers and the curious.

In short, if you want to see off-the-beaten-path vistas, learn about the land from passionate guides, and enjoy the thrill of navigating rugged trails, this tour is a solid choice. It’s particularly suited for those who value authentic exploration and memorable scenery over cookie-cutter sightseeing.

FAQs

Is transportation provided from my hotel?
No, this tour begins at the designated meeting point next to the Comfort Suites Hotel. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting spot.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable clothes, sturdy shoes for off-roading, sun protection, and a camera are recommended. Snacks and water are provided, but bringing extra water and a small bag for personal items is a good idea.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Yes, but children 8 years and under or under 57 inches in height require a car infant seat, as mandated by Utah law. Check with the provider if you have specific questions about age restrictions.

How physically demanding is the tour?
It’s primarily a scenic, off-road drive. While it involves some bumpy and uneven terrain, it’s suitable for most travelers in good health. Guides ensure safety and comfort throughout.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to confirm specific needs with the provider in advance.

What makes this tour different from other Moab excursions?
Its focus on genuine off-road exploration of less accessible parts of Canyonlands, led by highly knowledgeable guides, makes it stand out. You get to traverse iconic routes like the Shafer Trail and visit special sites like Fossil Point that are not reachable by standard vehicle or on your own.

In summary, this tour is a superb way to combine adventure, education, and incredible scenery. Whether you’re a first-timer in Moab or a seasoned explorer, it offers a memorable slice of Utah’s wild beauty, served up with expert guidance and a dash of thrill.