Spring is just around the corner, and canyon country is gearing up for another busy and exciting season.

In this month’s newsletter, we’re sharing some big updates and community highlights — including CNHA’s recent recognition by the Utah Legislature, the return of Canyon Country Arch Madness, and an invitation to support our friends at Friends of Arches and Canyonlands during their annual Pints for Parks fundraiser.

You’ll also find important updates from Arches National Park about timed entry changes for 2026, details about our upcoming members-only geology hike, and news on select trails now open to Class 1 e-bikes. Plus, we’re highlighting the great work of Steward Moab and the growing impact of community partnerships across the region.

As always, thank you for being part of this work. Your support helps strengthen education, stewardship, and connection across the public lands we all care about.

We’ll see you out there.

Canyonlands Natural History Association was recently recognized by the Utah Legislature for its service and impact in supporting public lands across the state.

Executive Director Sam Wainer attended a gathering at the Utah State Capitol where CNHA, alongside fellow nonprofit partners including Zion Forever Project, Bryce Canyon Association, Capitol Reef Natural History Association, and Friends of Arches and Canyonlands Parks, received a legislative citation honoring their role in strengthening stewardship and community connections to Utah’s public lands.

The citation specifically acknowledged Utah’s national park nonprofit partners for stepping up when reduced federal staffing and limited visitor services created challenges across park units statewide.

During the shutdown, nonprofit organizations mobilized staff, volunteers, and donor resources to help sustain essential operations, support visitor safety, provide stewardship assistance, and ease strain on gateway communities. The Legislature formally commended these organizations for their exemplary service and expressed appreciation for their continued commitment to preserving and enhancing Utah’s public lands

For CNHA, this recognition reflects decades of partnership and impact across the Colorado Plateau. We are honored to be acknowledged at the state level and proud to continue supporting the parks and public lands that mean so much to our communities.

Arches National Park will not require advanced timed-entry reservations this year. Visitors may enter the park at any time during operating hours.

As visitation increases during peak seasons, guests should plan ahead for possible entrance lines and limited parking at popular destinations, particularly on weekends and holidays.

“Arches offers extraordinary experiences at every hour of the day,” said Superintendent Lena Pace. “We encourage visitors to arrive early, explore lesser-traveled areas if certain locations are busy, and be flexible when enjoying the park. Arches is an International Dark Sky Park, and visiting after hours is highly encouraged. We look forward to working closely with local and state partners as we implement these adjustments and refine our approach to serve visitors while protecting park resources.”

Real-time entrance conditions are available through the park’s webcam at go.nps.gov/archeswebcam. Visitors are encouraged to check conditions before departing for the park. 

A valid entrance pass remains required and may be purchased online at Recreation.gov or at the entrance station. Reservations continue to be required for Devils Garden Campground and self-guided and ranger-led Fiery Furnace hikes.

To help maintain safe traffic flow, visitors are asked not to wait in roadways for parking spaces. When parking areas reach capacity, staff may temporarily restrict access to specific locations to reduce congestion and protect visitor safety. Additional scenic viewpoints and trailheads throughout the park offer outstanding alternatives during peak periods.

Nearby public lands including Dead Horse Point State Park, Canyonlands National Park, and Utahraptor State Park also provide additional opportunities to explore the region.

Spring conditions in southeast Utah can change quickly. Visitors should carry adequate water, wear sturdy footwear, dress in layers, and monitor official park channels for updates.

The National Park Service remains committed to providing access to Arches National Park while protecting its natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead, check conditions before arrival, and remain flexible to help ensure a safe and efficient experience during peak visitation periods.

See the press release here.

Gather with fellow public lands enthusiasts for a shared day of discovery in Canyonlands Island in the Sky! Join CNHA and Ranger Rhodes on Tuesday, May 12 for a geologic adventure exploring the landscapes that make canyon country so remarkable.

We’ll begin with a 2.5-mile round-trip hike on the Wilhite Trail, uncovering how these dramatic canyons formed and what continues to shape them today. From there, we’ll visit Upheaval Dome for a short 1-mile walk to one of southeast Utah’s greatest geologic mysteries. Along the way, connect with fellow hikers, learn from a knowledgeable ranger, and enjoy meaningful time outdoors together. We’ll wrap up with lunch at the trailhead and an informal Q&A.

Early registration opened last month for CNHA members, and spots are already filling. Members should have received an email with sign-up details. If you’re a member and didn’t see it, please reach out to infobox@cnha.org so we can assist you.

Any remaining spots will be released to the public soon. Follow CNHA on social media to be the first to know when registration opens.

Photo: Rhodes Smartt, NPS

Canyonlands Natural History Association is proud to support Steward Moab, a new nonprofit dedicated to caring for the landscapes and recreation areas that define the Moab region. As part of our commitment to supporting public lands and the communities connected to them, CNHA provided bridge funding and plans to donate one of our fleet vehicle to help Steward Moab establish operations during their critical startup phase.

Steward Moab’s mission centers on stewardship, education, and community engagement. The organization supports safe, responsible recreation while helping protect the natural and cultural resources that make southeastern Utah so special.

In its first year, Steward Moab has already made a meaningful impact. Their team received national recognition through the National Recreation Trail 2025 Photo Contest, where two of their submissions won awards in the Trail Safety and Training and Education categories for images taken along the Corona Arch Trail. The winning photos, captured by local photographer Corie Spruill, highlight the importance of education and responsible trail use.

Steward Moab’s storytelling efforts have also received national attention. Steward Moab's Back From Beyond podcast was named a 2026 Category Winner in the Podcast of the Year Awards by American Writing Awards. Hosted by Molly Marcello, the podcast recognizes the dedicated work of Grand County Search and Rescue and shares powerful stories from those who help keep our recreation community safe.

CNHA also continues to collaborate with Steward Moab through community outreach efforts, including participation in the annual Moab Guide Summit alongside local organizations and partner agencies. These partnerships strengthen the shared goal of fostering stewardship, education, and appreciation for public lands.

We are honored to support Steward Moab and look forward to seeing their continued growth and impact in the years ahead.

It’s that time of year again — Canyon Country Arch Madness is back!

This annual bracket-style competition invites our community to vote for their favorite natural arches from across southeastern Utah. From iconic showstoppers to under-the-radar gems, 32 arches will face off in head-to-head matchups until one is crowned champion.

Expect some serious heavy hitters from Arches National Park, including Delicate Arch, Landscape Arch, and the Windows — alongside beloved formations from Canyonlands National Park and surrounding public lands like Corona Arch.

Each day, we’ll post a new showdown on Instagram and Facebook Stories, where followers can cast their votes and help decide who advances to the next round. It’s friendly competition, a little chaotic energy, and a whole lot of appreciation for the geology that makes canyon country so remarkable.

Whether you’re loyal to a classic icon or rooting for a dark horse, this is your chance to join the fun and celebrate the incredible landscapes of the Colorado Plateau.

Follow along, vote daily, and may the best arch win.

The Bureau of Land Management Moab Field Office has opened seven trail systems and an additional 12 trails to Class 1 e-bikes as of Sunday, March 1. 2026. The field office was able to make the decision after completing an Environmental Assessment which included public comment periods where the community was able to provide input about the plans.

“In recent years, Class-1 e-bike technology has increased access to the world class trails and recreation opportunities for people of varied physical ability,” said Moab Field Office Manager Dave Pals. “We are excited to open some of our trails to a more inclusive form of recreation.”

A Class 1 e-bike has a motor of no more than one horsepower (750 watts) that provides assistance only while the rider is actively pedaling and automatically stops assisting when the bicycle reaches 20 miles per hour, according to 43 CFR 8340.0-5(j).

To check if you are accessing a trail approved for e-bike usage, go to the Moab e-bike webpage, where there is also an interactive map for trip planning.

View the announcement here.

Friends of Arches and Canyonlands invites the community to gather for its annual Pints for Parks fundraiser — a relaxed afternoon of local brews, live music, and good company, all in support of our beloved national parks.

This year’s event will be held at Swanny Park in Moab on March 15 from 3-7 pm, offering plenty of room to spread out, connect with fellow park lovers, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Heaters and covered tents will be set up to keep things comfortable while guests sit, stand, mingle, and move throughout the afternoon.

Pints for Parks highlights the important work Friends of Arches and Canyonlands does to support programs and projects in Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park. Proceeds from the event directly benefit efforts that strengthen education, stewardship, and visitor experiences in our parks.

Grab your friends, raise a glass, and join the celebration in the heart of Moab. It’s a simple and meaningful way to support the parks that mean so much to our community.

Get your tickets online here.

Moab Information Center Lecture Series

The Moab Information Center (MIC) Lecture Series returns in March with free, in-person talks exploring the science, history, and culture of canyon country. Speakers include local experts and partner organizations. Lectures are held Thursdays at 6:00 pm at the Moab Information Center.

• March 12 at 6pm | Uranium Mines to Red Rock Tourism by Robert Anderson (in Collaboration with the Moab Museum)
• March 26 at 6pm | Deer Chronic Wasting Disease by Chris Wood (Utah DNR)

View the lineup here.

Canyons of the Ancients National Monument: Block Printing Workshop

Join Artist-in-Residence Vicki Conley for a hands-on block printing workshop inspired by the landscapes, plants, and wildlife of Canyons of the Ancients National Monument. Participants will design and create a small relief printing block using simple, non-carving techniques, then print their designs on paper and fabric. One fabric print can be turned into a stitched patch for clothing or a backpack, and selective pieces may become part of a collaborative quilt.

March 14
10 am - 12 pm & 1 - 3 pm

Canyons of the Ancients Visitor Center 
27501 CO-184, Dolores, CO 81323

All supplies provided. Ages 8+. Limited to 12 participants per session.

Register now by visiting here.

Canyonlands Adventure Badge

Arches Adventure Badge

Your Purchases Support Education and Research on the

Public Lands of the Colorado Plateau.

Our Mission

Canyonlands Natural History Association (CNHA) is a non-profit organization, which exists solely to assist the National Park Service, the U.S. Forest Service, and the Bureau of Land Management in their education and visitor efforts. Proceeds from sales support these agencies’ educational, interpretive, and scientific programs on the Colorado Plateau.

Follow Us!