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Welcome to Canyonlands National Park!

Park History

Canyonlands National Park, established in 1964, has a rich history dating back thousands of years. Humans have inhabited the area for over 10,000 years, with evidence of early Paleoindians and later Ancestral Puebloans who farmed the land. The modern park's creation was championed by Superintendent Bates Wilson of Arches National Monument and Secretary of the Interior Stewart Udall, who envisioned preserving the unique ecosystem and dramatic landscape.

History:

Early Inhabitants:
Paleoindians were the first to visit, followed by people who lived in the area for thousands of years, leaving behind rock art and artifacts.

Agricultural Transition:
Around 250 AD, farming practices from Mesoamerica reached the Southwest, influencing hunter-gatherers to cultivate corn.

Advocacy for Protection:
In the 1960s, Bates Wilson recognized the need to protect the area, leading to a movement for a national park.

Park Designation:
Canyonlands was officially established as a national park on September 12, 1964, by President Lyndon B. Johnson, encompassing 257,640 acres.

Diverse Landscapes:
The park features distinct areas like Island in the Sky, The Needles, and The Maze, each showcasing unique geological formations and natural beauty. -- Source Google



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