As we left behind Moab and the Arches, our next adventure took us to the majestic Canyonlands. Our first stop: Island in the Sky. We lucked out and snagged a spot at the Island in the Sky Campground — tucked right at the edge of the world. Just a few steps from our site, we found ourselves face to face with the jaw-dropping views of the Green River Overlook. Words — and even photos — can’t quite capture how overwhelmed our senses were. It was visual overload in the best possible way. All I can say is: X gave thanks for her eyesight! We spent the day exploring every corner of Northern Canyonlands, saving the southern region for another time. Oh, and by the way — Gilbert looks very good in his new campsite.

We took a side trip to Dead Horse Point State Park — and wow, what a name, right? The story behind it is as haunting as the views are breathtaking. Legend has it that cowboys once herded wild mustangs onto this narrow mesa, using the sheer cliffs and a makeshift fence to keep them corralled. For some reason lost to history, one group of horses was left behind — trapped with no food or water, staring down at the Colorado River thousands of feet below. They died of thirst, giving the point its eerie name. Walking in the footsteps you have to wonder the logic behind such a act.

After soaking in the surreal blues and rust-reds of the canyons, we detoured to Goblin Valley State Park, which felt like landing on another planet entirely. The landscape is filled with hundreds of mushroom-shaped rock formations — called “goblins” — scattered across a wide desert basin. It’s part playground, part sci-fi movie set. We wandered among the goblins like curious explorers, half expecting one to wink at us or scurry off behind a rock. It’s the kind of place where your inner child can't help but run wild. We toped it off with a hike at the Toadstool tucked between Goblin Valley and Grand Staircase–Escalante, the Toadstool Hoodoos Trail is like stepping into a Martian dreamscape. The short, sandy walk winds through a dry wash before opening up to a surreal scene—towering red and white hoodoos balanced with massive stone “caps” that look like giant mushrooms. It’s an easy hike, just over a mile round-trip, but the payoff feels huge.

Each stop along the way reminded us just how wildly diverse and otherworldly Utah’s desert parks can be. One minute you're standing in solemn silence at a dramatic overlook, the next you’re giggling through a rock maze shaped like fantasy creatures. The west never stops surprising us. Our boondocking for the night was most incredible! Ask us where it is and we will be happy to share!

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