Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! Download the app.
Multihued sandstone towers that resemble 200-foot ornamental candles surround the Chesler Park area of The Needles. You can see them by hiking an easy 10 miles out and back from the Squaw Flat trailhead on UT 211. Make a loop of nearly 14 miles by returning via Big Spring or Squaw Canyon. Spring or fall is best; summer’s hot.
drive time Moab: 1 1/2 hours
guides:Canyon Hiking Guide to the Colorado Plateau, 4th edition, by Michael R. Kelsey ($15). Trails Illustrated map Canyonlands National Park Island/Needles #210 (800-962-1643; www.backpacker.com/mapstore; $10).
contact: Canyonlands National Park, (435) 259-7164 www.nps.gov/cany