Panorama Point

Panorama Point is a rim viewpoint on North Point in the Orange Cliffs, looking out over Horse Canyon and Elaterite Basin. It is a remote Maze backcountry destination, not a casual detour from the paved Island in the Sky drives. From Hans Flat Ranger Station, the route is about 12 miles and takes roughly two hours; the road requires high-clearance, low-range four-wheel drive. Hans Flat is itself a long dirt-road drive from UT 24, and the Maze is usually a multi-day outing. Go only with backcountry driving and self-rescue preparation. GPS directions can mislead people here, and weather can close Maze backcountry roads, so check conditions before setting out.

The rim looks across Horse Canyon and Elaterite Basin, with Standing Rocks to the southeast and Elaterite Butte to the south. North Point narrows into several finger-like ridges near its northern end; the Panorama Point road takes the eastern branch, while the west branch leads toward Cleopatra's Chair. The surrounding Orange Cliffs share the Maze's backcountry management and permit system.

From the small parking area, follow the cairns about 200 yards to the first good viewpoint. Another half mile reaches the eastern tip, where the view turns north along the Green River gorge toward Anderson Bottom. For a broader photo, continue to the tip and include the canyon rim in the frame; keep well back from the edge.

A single designated vehicle campsite sits beside the point and accommodates up to nine people and three vehicles. It has no pit toilet or picnic table, and there is no potable water, food, fuel or other service in the Maze. Campers need a cleanable reusable toilet system. Overnight trips require a permit, groups must use designated sites, and pets are not allowed, even in vehicles.