Canyonlands NP, What a View! | Northern California Landscape Photographer
Chasing the Sun: An Incredible Sunrise in Canyonlands NP
On my recent trip to Canyonlands, we experienced an incredible sunrise and serenity in unexpected corners of the park. Here's what I learned: Canyonlands is full of magic beyond the Instagram-famous spots.
The Stillness of Shafer Canyon Overlook
During the workshop with Nate Leubbe and Autumn Schrock, it was an EARLY morning start to get to Shafer Canyon Overlook for sunrise. While there are several areas in Canyonlands NP to observe the incredible sunrises, this might be one of the best! At sunrise, the entire landscape ignites: jagged buttes, sprawling canyons, and winding rivers all bathed in soft morning light.
The best part? We had it to ourselves; just the wind and the slow bloom of light. It felt like the Earth was waking up. And, for us, it was.
Why Shafer Point?
Tucked along the Island in the Sky district’s scenic drive, Shafer Point offers panoramic views into the dizzying depths of the Shafer Canyon, where the legendary switchback road twists and coils like a rattlesnake making its way down the cliffside. But it’s not just the view that makes this spot special—it’s the stillness. You can stand alone at Shafer Point, watching the light slowly bleed into the canyon, painting each ridge and ledge with liquid gold.
Tips for Sunrise
Arrive early – even the lesser-known spots deserve a little pre-dawn patience.
Bring layers – desert mornings can be surprisingly cold.
Pack coffee or breakfast – it makes the wait that much sweeter.
Use a red headlamp – if you are well ahead of sunrise. It helps preserve night vision without ruining the dark for others.
Don’t rush out – the light continues to change for up to an hour after the sun rises. Stay and watch the show.
Final Thoughts
This view in Canyonlands NP has to much to offer. Watching the sunrise away from the crowds lets you connect more deeply with the landscape—and yourself. Sometimes, the best views are the ones without an audience.
So next time you visit Canyonlands, consider finding your own sunrise, or visit Shafer Canyon Overlook. Trust me, the canyon won't disappoint.
Once the sun rises over the horizon, light fills the canyon and it happens fast! Shoot away!
Thanks to Autumn for this photo of me standing at the edge.
The switch-backroad through the canyon takes about an hour to complete.
You can read about and see photos of my trip to Bryce NP, another national park in Utah.
Can’t find what you’re looking for? Use the Search option below.
* * * * * * *
As a published, featured northern California fine art photographer living in the greater Sacramento area, I specialize in fine art landscape, nature, and still life photography. My style is authentic, fresh and personality-driven. I offer several educational opportunities including workshops and photography mentoring. You can learn about them by going to SERVICES and WORKSHOPS. While currently living in rural northern California with my husband and a couple thousand walnut trees, I post regularly to Instagram.
Please CONTACT ME with any questions or to schedule your learning session.
Serving Yuba City/Marysville, East Nicolaus, Wheatland, Lincoln, Woodland, Davis, Roseville, Rocklin, and the greater Sacramento area.
(530) 633-7575
Join other advanced photographers who are recognized for their technical and creative work. Learn more HERE.
On my recent trip to Canyonlands, we experienced an incredible sunrise and serenity in unexpected corners of the park. Here's what I learned: Canyonlands is full of magic beyond the Instagram-famous spots.