Neck Spring Loop Trail
Location: Island in the Sky District, Canyonlands National Park
Distance: 5.8 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: ~600 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Time Required: 2.5–3.5 hours
Trailhead: Shafer Canyon Road pullout (Island in the Sky Scenic Drive)
Overview
The Neck Spring Loop Trail offers one of the best opportunities in Canyonlands to experience both the park’s vast desert scenery and its quiet pockets of life. Starting near the edge of Shafer Canyon, this moderate 5.8-mile loop descends through slickrock benches, crosses sandy washes, and follows a series of desert springs that once sustained early ranchers and wildlife.
If you’re looking for a hike that combines solitude, scenery, and a bit of history, Neck Spring is a perfect choice. It’s often overlooked in favor of Mesa Arch or Grand View Point, yet it’s one of the most rewarding half-day hikes in the Island in the Sky District.
Getting There
From Moab, drive 32 miles (about 45 minutes) to the Island in the Sky Visitor Center. Continue 1.5 miles south on the Island in the Sky Scenic Drive, then turn left onto Shafer Canyon Road. The Neck Spring Trailhead is located immediately at the pullout on the left. Limited roadside parking is available, so arrive early in spring and fall.
Coordinates: 38.4217° N, 109.8643° W
Restrooms: Available at the Visitor Center nearby
Water: None at trailhead (bring your own)
Trail Description
The hike begins on open slickrock, with sweeping views of Shafer Canyon and the distant La Sal Mountains. Within the first half-mile, the trail begins its gradual descent into a network of dry washes where desert life thrives around small springs.
You’ll pass two historic cattle watering troughs built by ranchers who once grazed livestock in these canyons. The springs still trickle today, providing a rare source of water for deer, birds, and desert plants.
As the trail loops through the drainage, it alternates between sections of slickrock, packed sand, and shallow canyon bottoms. After about 3 miles, the route climbs back up toward the mesa rim, where you’ll enjoy wide-open views of Canyonlands’ vast canyons and plateaus. The final stretch follows the rim back to the trailhead, closing the loop with dramatic vistas in every direction.
Highlights
Historic Ranching Sites: Old troughs and pipes offer a glimpse into the park’s human history.
Desert Springs: Rare oases that attract wildlife year-round.
Panoramic Vistas: Expansive views toward Shafer Canyon and the White Rim.
Solitude: A quiet alternative to Canyonlands’ busier overlooks.
When to Hike
The best seasons for Neck Spring are spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) when temperatures are mild. Summer can be brutally hot with no shade and little breeze along the rim. In winter, snow and ice may make the descent slippery.
Safety & Tips
⚠️ Desert Conditions: Carry at least 2 liters of water per person—there’s no reliable water along the route.
⚠️ Navigation: The trail is well-marked with cairns but can be confusing in washes. Download a map or GPX file before hiking.
⚠️ Wildlife: Give all animals space around water sources.
⚠️ Sun Protection: Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses are essential.
Local Insight
Many locals consider Neck Spring one of Canyonlands’ hidden gems. It’s long enough to feel like an adventure but short enough to complete before lunch. If you’re doing multiple hikes in a day, pair it with Mesa Arch or Upheaval Dome Overlook—both are nearby and showcase completely different landscapes.
Quick Facts
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Distance | 5.8 miles round trip |
| Elevation Gain | 600 feet |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Duration | 2.5–3.5 hours |
| Trail Type | Loop |
| Best Seasons | Spring, Fall |
| Dogs | Not permitted |
| Permits | None required for day hiking |
| Park Fee | National Park entrance fee required |
FAQ
Is Neck Spring Trail family-friendly?
It’s best for active families with older children. The loop is longer than it looks and has a few short climbs.
Can I hike it in the afternoon?
Yes, but it’s better to start early in the morning, especially in warmer months, to avoid the heat.
Are there restrooms on the trail?
No. The nearest facilities are at the Island in the Sky Visitor Center.
Can I camp near the trail?
Backcountry camping requires a permit, but there are no designated campsites along the trail. Nearby options include Willow Flat Campground.
Directions from Moab
Head north on US-191 for 11 miles.
Turn left onto UT-313 toward Canyonlands National Park.
Continue 25 miles to the Island in the Sky entrance station.
Drive 1.5 miles past the Visitor Center, turn left on Shafer Canyon Road, and park at the trailhead pullout.
Nearby Hikes
Mesa Arch Trail (0.6 mi round trip): Iconic sunrise spot just a few minutes away.
Grand View Point Trail (2 mi round trip): Sweeping canyon panoramas at the park’s southern tip.
Upheaval Dome Overlook (1.8 mi round trip): Short hike to a mysterious geological crater.
Summary
The Neck Spring Loop Trail captures the heart of Canyonlands—quiet canyons, desert life, and endless views—all in a half-day hike. It’s less traveled, historically rich, and perfect for anyone who wants to feel the rhythm of the desert without the crowds.