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Hikes/United States/Utah/Canyonlands National Park
Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Easy
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
40 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
1.3 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
0.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Whale Rock Trail

Whale Rock Trail
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Table of contents

The Whale Rock Trail is a fantastic little hike with incredible views. The hike up this sloping sandstone structure is so much fun for adventurous kids to climb on, play around, and conquer. The views from the top are absolutely stunning—the top of Whale Rock gives you a 360-degree look at the desert landscape of Canyonlands National Park.

Route Description for Whale Rock Trail

The Whale Rock Trail is a short hike up a sloping fin of sandstone shaped like a big beached whale. Leave the flip-flops at home for this one—this hike has a good incline and grippy shoes are definitely an asset for both the ascent and the descent.

The views from the top of the Whale are absolutely breathtaking. With a 360-degree panoramic view of Canyonlands National Park, you and the fam will be able to play I-Spy to your heart's content. For an especially spectacular experience, give this hike a try at sunrise or sunset; although, no matter when you go, we promise that you’ll have a whale of time!

From the trailhead, follow the cairn-marked path for 0.6 km up to the top of the whale.

Soak in the incredible views before turning around and following the same path back to the trailhead.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall is Whale Rock?

Whale Rock is 46 m tall.

Insider Hints for Whale Rock Trail

  • Wear grippy shoes on this hike to help on the ascent and descent
  • This hike is a lot of fun for kids (and grown-ups)
  • For other cool hikes in the area, check out Upheaval Dome via Crater View Trail

Getting to the Whale Rock Trail Trailhead

From the Island in the Sky Visitor Center, head down Grand View Road for 6.4mi then take a right onto Upheaval Dome Road. Follow Upheaval Dome Road for 4.0mi to the Whale Rock Trailhead.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    No

  • When to do:

    year-round

  • Pets allowed:

    No

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    Good

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Whale Rock Trail Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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