Snow Canyon State Park, UT
Island in the SkyCanyoneering
Permit Description The Island in the Sky is an eroded sandstone butte located in the middle of Snow Canyon State Park. Steep walled on nearly every side, the top of the formation is accessible via a system of ledges, dihedrals and ramps on both the north and south tips. Once the top of the formation is attained it is traversed by an intricate and confusing series of drainages, bowls, parks, slots, ledges, and ramps. There is no easily discernable pathway through what is by definition a labyrinth of stone. There are several points which a rope and belay may be prudent. If you attempt this route you should have a good head for heights, comfort with exposure and understanding of the delicate nature of sandstone and its frictioning characteristics. This formation has been traversed by local desert rats for over 30 years or more, but has also seen its share of epics, nights spent out, and rescues. Give yourself adequate time, bring extra supplies, water and headlamps. If you are uncertain of the route, partner with someone who has hiked this area before or hire a guide.
Please note: Each permit is good for up to six people.
Permit Details - Accessible: No
- Effort: Moderate
Important Information
- Your safety is your responsibility. Canyoneers should be in good physical condition and be prepared with proper safety and survival equipment. First aid kits, headlamps, and extra food, water and clothing.
- Check local weather forecasts and future radar before heading into a narrow canyon. If precipitation is forecasted you should reschedule your trip.
- Group size is limited to six. A group is any people sharing the same affiliation (school club, scout troop, family, friends, business). Any group splitting to avoid the size limit for the trips on the same route, on the same day, is a permit violation. Group mergers are also prohibited. Group size is controlled to reduce bottlenecks, protect park resources, and maintain the quality of experience.
- Route descriptions, maps, compass, and appropriate gear are all necessary. Make sure you are properly equipped. Your safety is your responsibility.
- Backup plans are essential. Ability to belay, ascend, create extra friction, and travel after dark can prevent serious accidents.
- Prevent bottle necks ¿ allow faster parties to pass
- Any drilling, bolting or alteration of route is prohibited.
- Hike only on existing trails when approaching the route. Hike in canyon drainages and on slick rock when on the route.
- Carry out all trash, including toilet paper.
- Use of human waste disposal bags is encouraged for solid human waste. All human waste should be buried at least 4 inches deep and, whenever possible, 200 feet from water or dry washes.
- Overnight camping is prohibited.
- Fires are prohibited.
- Pets are prohibited.
- Hunting is prohibited.
- All plants, animals, minerals, and other natural features are protected. It is unlawful to remove, alter, or destroy them.
- All natural objects and cultural artifacts are protected and must be left where they are found. It is unlawful to destroy or deface cultural sites.
- Any accidents must be reported to a ranger.
- Permits are non-transferable and non-refundable
Directions After paying your entrance fee and acquiring your on-line permit drive north on the park road to the Circus Wall pullout and continue north for approx 0.1 mile. There is a small pulloff on the right at the start of the Moss Canyon trail (AKA the Breakfast Nook). Follow the trail through the sand to the entrance of the canyon and locate the start of the route on the blocks at the northern tip of the Island in the Sky formation.
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