The History of Canyonlands By Night

MOAB, Utah - Sept. 12, 2013 - PRLog -- The History of Canyonlands By Night and Day In Southern Utah, exploring the beautiful area surrounding Moab and telling the history of the land is more than an interest— it’s our passion. We’re delighted to see our commitment come to life each and every day, in the smiles, discovery and laughter of our guests. Join us as we celebrate the wonders of the desert and make unforgettable family memories.
At the center of what has become a multi-faceted riverfront business is a world-renowned Sound and Light Show begun in the early 1960s. The actual program has changed little over the years and is still relevant: Indian stories and legends, a spoken history of Moab pioneers and their conflict with Moab Native Americans, and finally a discussion of geology, the natural wonder of the canyons and patriotism.
From the lounge of a 144-seat motorized boat, the stage is southeastern Utah’s night sky, 300 to 500-foot canyon walls and the mighty Colorado River. Most people take advantage of a Dutch oven dinner on Canyonlands By Night’s patio north of town prior to the boat’s departure at dusk. For the three-mile trip up river, a knowledgeable host, points out faces and images nature has carved throughout the canyon, repeating and inventing stories with intelligence and humor. It’s a friendly, relaxing ride; often there are beaver, goats and mule deer about. Always there are waterfowl, including the graceful Blue Heron.
The end of the ride up river marks the beginning of the recorded program, the brainchild of Welton Brooks Winn, a Texan who once ran a light show at Palo Duro State Park in the Panhandle.
“He decided he wanted to do something here,” Preston Paxman relates. “He went back to Texas, built a boat and returned to Moab. We’ve gone through several boats since then, but the show has continued.”
Two Moab residents bought the business in 1976 and the business has grown to provide several different tours to thousands of visitors every year. Canyonlands By Night and Day remains a family owned company, and you'll feel the difference the moment you step in the door.