Claire hiking in Needles District of Canyonlands
A week ago we spent three days hiking in the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park. We’ve visited first on Zippy (our tandem) on our first long tour and fell in love. We’ve been back a few times since, once for a memorable 14 mile hike with Jack and Mary Lange from Sequim. Each time when it comes time to leave, we promise ourselves to come back for a longer stay.
We stopped at the visitors center on our way out, and Claire mentioned that we’ve been thinking about volunteering in a National Park, and that Canyonlands would be high on the list. The woman we spoke to, Dorita, just happened to be the volunteer coordinator.
Another multi-million dollar view at Muley Point
Two days later, boondocked at another spectacular site, Muley Point, there was a message on our phone from Dorita. The volunteer slated for the autumn stint had become ill; could we fill in for as little or as long as possible? We were just a few days from Tucson to begin our “normal” winter activities, but we do tend to grab opportunities, so we said yes. We begin as soon as we gather a month’s worth of food, add some winter clothes and blankets (thrift store) and return to Needles.
If you are in the area, stop by to visit and get a taste of true high desert red rock remoteness. Our off days are Tuesday through Thursday (hike or bike) but the other days allow time for a visit.
We’re stoked. I’ll make a post or two if possible.
Found your site and thought with your experience in Canyonlands, you might be able to offer a boondocking site in the Needles District? We have a Westy, so capable of going where needed. Any thoughts on a good spot? We have 2 year old twin boys, like wide open spaces, and not a lot of neighbors 🙂 Of course views are our top choice. Thanks!
You can’t boondock inside Needles District, but there is a dirt road a mile or so before the entrance station that leads north to lots of great BLM land. We always park there first and then are ready early next morning to get a site in the park. Wonderful views. I may have posted some of them. However, it’s worth camping in the park for the hiking; most of the trails start from the campground.