The Needles District

Angel Arch

Description 

The Needles District is one of the 4 districts of the Canyonlands (don't forget about the detached Horseshoe Canyon District). The best time to visit is in the spring or fall. This area is often overlooked because of its proximity to the much more famous Indian Creek and North and South Six Shooters. Located here you will find some of the finest arches anywhere. Arches NP is more famous for arches, and certainly has more of them, but the Needles district arguably has some of the biggest and most impressive arches this side of Landscape Arch. The three biggest arches in the Needles District are Angel Arch, Druid Arch, and Castle Arch. These arches are not by the side of the road, and take a fair amount of effort to see, particularly the biggest one, Angel Arch. The trail system here is among the finest in the Canyonlands, and backpacking is incredibly rewarding. An endless supply of excellent bouldering and exploration exists in the area. Even with the crowds that spring and fall bring, it is easy to find seclusion in this labyrinthian realm.

Getting There 

The Needles District is located about an hour to an hour and a half south of Moab. Drive past the famous Indian Creek climbing area, and past the inspiring Six Shooters to the entrance.

Featured Route For The Needles District

The New World Order 5.12c V6  UT : Moab Area : The Needles District

Second crack to the rt. of Worlds Hardest. 25' OW roof, crux @ the lip....[more]

Add Photo Photos of The Needles District

Castle Arch	Castle Arch	Druid Arch
View from the second belay of Druid	Looking up at (and through) Castle Arch from direc...	Salt Creen Canyon; April 2007
Salt Creek Canyon. Taken May 2005.	The remote and hidden All American Man. Photo by: ...	Angel Arch Photo by: Frosty Weller