Upheaval Dome via Crater View Trail

The Upheaval Dome via Crater View Trail is a family-friendly hike to two viewpoints overlooking the incredible Upheaval Dome. This hike can get quite busy, so we recommend heading out early in the day to avoid the crowds and the heat. This trail is short but has a few steep sections, so wear proper footwear.

The Upheaval Dome is an enigma; this formation, 3.4mi in diameter, is a dome of sandstone surrounded by a deep crater. It is theorized that this formation was caused either by salt bubbles under the earth or by a meteorite impact. This hike is a fantastic place to go with kids and learn about the wonders of Canyonlands National Park.

You will see three paths from the trailhead—follow the one in the middle straight ahead for 0.2mi to the first overlook. Continue for another 0.3mi to the second overlook.

Enjoy the views and snap some photos before turning around and following the same path back to the trailhead.

Trail Highlights

Upheaval Dome

The Upheaval Dome is an anomalous geological formation: a dome of rock surrounded by a crater moat. There is debate over what caused this formation but there are two main theories that prevail. The first is that the upheaval dome was caused by molten salt bubbling up under the earth and pushing the overlying rock into a dome-like formation. The other, a more popular theory, is that The Upheaval Dome was created by a meteorite impact approximately 60 million years ago.

Frequently Asked Questions

What caused the upheaval dome?

The upheaval dome was likely created by either a salt bubble or a meteorite impact.

How big is the upheaval dome?

The upheaval dome is 3.4mi in diameter.