Confluence Overlook Trail, Utah
Total Distance: 10.1 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,371 feet
Trail Type: Out-and- Back
Difficulty: Moderate
The Hike: Hiking to the confluence of the Colorado and Green rivers offers a unique experience within the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park. Unlike many other trails in the area, this hike travels over dry, open, and rocky terrain. Although the hike is mostly flat, the trail is almost completely exposed and has no available access to water. Hikers need to be prepared for harsh sunlight, and dry desert conditions.
On your 5.5 mile journey to the confluence, you will be treated to views of Big Spring Canyon, Elephant Canyon, and the northern edges of “The Needles”. If you catch it on a day without any other hikers, the area is almost deafeningly quiet. Standing 1,000 feet above the muddy Colorado and sparkling Green River merging together in the silence is a truly surreal experience. This is also one of the few places in the park where you can view The Needles, The Maze, and the Island in the Sky Districts all at once.
The overlook, as well as the entire area, is completely otherworldly and makes for a stunningly beautiful hike through remote stretches of the Utah desert.
The Details: Begin by parking at the Big Spring Canyon Overlook and following the trail down (marked by cairns) into the canyon. The trail will immediately climb out of the canyon on the other side. The trail will then descend into Elephant Canyon, and lead you past colorful washes before gradually climbing back out. After that, continue to follow the cairns through a flat desert scape until you see signs for the confluence. Once taking in the views, retrace your steps back to the parking lot.
Hikers will cross multiple Jeep roads throughout this hike. Be vigilant and follow both the cairns and signs leading towards “The Confluence”.
Gear: For this hike, we recommend bringing along either the Winter or Summer Day Hike Essentials, depending on the season.
*The information in this article is for planning purposes only. Actual trail conditions may vary depending on environmental factors. It is always advised to get the latest trail information from a park office or ranger before you begin your hike.