The Grand Viewpoint Trail (2 miles roundtrip of mostly flat walking) very much lives up to its name. You can see the distant Henry Mountains to the west, the Needles of Canyonlands to the south, Monument Basin lays just below, and to the east are the La Sals. But that description defies the feeling of being there. You are, as you walk to the edge of the trail that creeps along the cliff towards Junction Butte, over 1,000 feet above the basin floor. Personally, I suffer from what the French call a certain l’appel du vide, or call to the void, so these kinds of heights and endless vistas, while dizzying, are exciting and I crave them. I’m not suicidal, I just love that edge. You’ll get that edge everywhere in Islands in the Sky so be prepared.

That giant butte to the west as you walk is called Junction butte and it’s best viewed at the end of the trail and from atop a popular boulder that you may have to wait your turn to ascend. To the south if you look close enough are the spires of the Needles District of Canyonlands. Directly in front of you is Monument Basin which is best viewed from the White Rim Road. To the north is Candlestick Tower. And all around you is beautiful Colorado Plateau red and white sandstone.