Did you know Glen Canyon’s Lake Powell has more shoreline than the entire western coast of the United States? With an astonishing 1,960 miles of shoreline, this azure oasis in the red rock desert offers endless exploration opportunities. Glen Canyon National Recreation Area spans 1.25 million acres across southern Utah and northern Arizona, creating one of America’s most spectacular outdoor playgrounds where water meets wilderness in dramatic fashion.
Getting to Glen Canyon
The stunning contrast of blue water and red rock makes Glen Canyon a photographer’s paradise
Most visitors access Glen Canyon through Page, Arizona, which serves as the gateway to the southern portion of the recreation area. The nearest major airports are in Las Vegas (275 miles), Phoenix (280 miles), and Salt Lake City (340 miles). From these cities, you’ll need to rent a car for the scenic drive to Glen Canyon.
Ready to Plan Your Glen Canyon Adventure?
Start by booking your flights to one of the gateway cities. The journey to Glen Canyon is part of the adventure!
Best Time to Visit Glen Canyon
Glen Canyon’s climate varies dramatically throughout the year, influencing when you might want to visit:
Summer (June-August)
Peak season for water activities with temperatures often exceeding 100°F (38°C). The lake water warms to comfortable swimming temperatures, making this the ideal time for boating and water sports. However, expect crowds and higher prices during this period.
Spring & Fall (April-May, September-October)
These shoulder seasons offer pleasant temperatures (70-85°F/21-29°C) and fewer crowds. Spring brings wildflowers, while fall offers spectacular color contrasts. Hiking conditions are excellent, though water activities may require wetsuits in early spring.
The magical light of sunset transforms Glen Canyon’s landscapes
Winter (November-March) brings cooler temperatures (40-60°F/4-15°C) and the lowest visitor numbers. While not ideal for water activities, winter offers solitude and unique photography opportunities with possible snow dusting the red rocks.
Top Things to Do in Glen Canyon Utah
Glen Canyon offers an incredible variety of activities for every type of traveler. Here are the must-do experiences that showcase the best of this remarkable landscape:
1. Horseshoe Bend
This iconic viewpoint offers one of the most photographed scenes in the American Southwest. A short 1.5-mile round-trip hike leads to a dramatic overlook where the Colorado River makes a 270-degree turn around a sandstone escarpment. The contrast between the turquoise water and red rock walls creates a mesmerizing vista that’s especially stunning at sunset.
Arrive early morning or late afternoon to avoid both crowds and the harshest midday sun. Bring water, wear sturdy shoes, and stay at least 6 feet from the unfenced cliff edge where the drop is over 1,000 feet.
2. Lake Powell Boat Tours
Experience the magic of Glen Canyon from the water with a guided boat tour. The Canyon Adventure Tour takes you through the water-filled portions of Antelope and Navajo Canyons, where towering red walls rise dramatically from the turquoise water. Tours depart from Wahweap Marina and typically last 2-3 hours.
For a more intimate experience, consider a kayak tour that allows you to paddle into narrow slot canyons inaccessible to larger vessels. These guided excursions provide equipment and safety instruction, making them suitable for all experience levels.
3. Rainbow Bridge National Monument
Visit one of the world’s largest natural bridges, standing 290 feet tall with a span of 275 feet. This sacred site to Native American tribes is accessible by a boat tour from Wahweap Marina (approximately 50 miles one-way) or via permitted hiking trails across Navajo Nation land (17+ miles one-way).
The boat journey to Rainbow Bridge takes you through some of Lake Powell’s most scenic sections, making the journey as rewarding as the destination. Once there, a short walk leads to viewing areas of this magnificent natural wonder.
4. Glen Canyon Dam
This engineering marvel created Lake Powell and forever changed the Colorado River landscape. Visit the Carl Hayden Visitor Center for exhibits on the dam’s construction and ecology. When available, guided tours take you inside the dam to see its inner workings and provide spectacular views from the crest.
The visitor center offers excellent views of both Lake Powell and the Colorado River below the dam. Don’t miss the chance to walk across the Glen Canyon Bridge for a different perspective of this massive structure.
5. Rent a Boat
For the ultimate Glen Canyon experience, rent your own watercraft to explore Lake Powell’s hidden coves and canyons at your own pace. Options range from powerboats and pontoons to personal watercraft (jet skis) and kayaks. Wahweap Marina offers the largest selection of rentals, with options to suit every budget and group size.
No boating experience? No problem. Staff provide orientation and safety briefings for all renters. Consider a half-day rental for your first outing to get comfortable navigating the lake. Advanced reservations are strongly recommended during summer months.
6. Colorado River Float Trip
Experience the Colorado River from a unique perspective with a guided float trip from Glen Canyon Dam to Lees Ferry. These smooth-water rafting excursions are family-friendly (suitable for ages 4+) and offer spectacular views of the canyon walls, wildlife, and ancient petroglyphs.
The 15-mile journey takes approximately half a day and includes fascinating commentary from experienced guides about the area’s geology, ecology, and human history. You’ll even float beneath Horseshoe Bend, seeing this famous landmark from below.
7. Hiking Trails
Glen Canyon offers numerous hiking opportunities ranging from easy walks to challenging backcountry treks. Beyond the popular Horseshoe Bend trail, consider these excellent options:
- Hanging Garden Trail (1 mile round-trip): An easy walk to a unique desert oasis where plants grow from a seep in the canyon wall.
- Spencer Trail (4.4 miles round-trip): A challenging hike with 1,600 feet of elevation gain, rewarding you with panoramic views of the Colorado River and surrounding landscape.
- Wiregrass Canyon (6 miles round-trip): A moderate hike through a scenic canyon with interesting rock formations and possible wildlife sightings.
Always carry plenty of water, wear sun protection, and check weather conditions before hiking, as flash floods can occur in canyon areas.
8. Antelope Canyon
While technically outside Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, this world-famous slot canyon is just minutes away in Page, Arizona. Upper Antelope Canyon is known for its light beams that pierce through the narrow openings above, while Lower Antelope Canyon features spectacular swirling rock formations.
Both sections require guided tours led by Navajo guides, as the canyon is located on Navajo Nation land. Tours sell out months in advance during peak season, so early booking is essential. Photography enthusiasts should consider specialized photo tours that allow for tripods and longer time at key spots.
Where to Stay in Glen Canyon
Lake Powell Resort offers comfortable accommodations with stunning water views
Glen Canyon offers diverse accommodation options to suit every preference and budget:
Hotels & Lodges
Lake Powell Resort at Wahweap Marina provides comfortable rooms with lake views, multiple dining options, and easy access to boat rentals and tours. In Page, numerous hotels and motels offer convenient access to both Glen Canyon and Antelope Canyon.
Camping
Wahweap Campground offers both developed sites with hookups and primitive camping areas. Lees Ferry Campground provides a more remote experience along the Colorado River. Lone Rock Beach allows camping directly on the shoreline with stunning views.
Houseboats
For a truly unique experience, rent a houseboat to live on Lake Powell. Options range from basic models to luxury vessels with slides and hot tubs. This allows you to explore remote areas and wake up to different stunning views each morning.
Find Your Perfect Glen Canyon Accommodation
From lakeside resorts to secluded campsites, book your stay now to secure the best options.
Essential Tips for Visiting Glen Canyon
Proper preparation ensures a safe and enjoyable Glen Canyon experience
What to Bring
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Plenty of water (1 gallon per person per day)
- Sturdy hiking shoes
- Swimwear and quick-dry towels
- Camera with extra batteries
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing
- Light layers for temperature changes
What to Avoid
- Hiking during midday heat (10am-4pm)
- Entering slot canyons during rain
- Approaching wildlife
- Relying on cell service (spotty at best)
- Venturing off-trail in sensitive areas
- Swimming without life jackets
- Leaving without checking weather forecasts
Entrance Fees & Passes
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area requires an entrance fee: $30 per vehicle for a 7-day pass or $25 per watercraft. If you plan to visit multiple national parks, consider the America the Beautiful Pass ($80) which covers entrance fees for a full year at all national parks and federal recreation lands.
Safety Considerations
The desert environment presents unique challenges. Dehydration and heat-related illnesses are common, so drink water regularly even if not thirsty. Flash floods can occur with little warning, so avoid narrow canyons during rain. On the water, always wear life jackets and be aware that conditions can change rapidly with afternoon winds.
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area spans parts of Utah and Arizona
Planning Your Glen Canyon Adventure
Careful planning helps maximize your Glen Canyon experience
Suggested Itineraries
| Duration | Morning | Afternoon | Evening |
| 1 Day | Glen Canyon Dam Visitor Center | Boat Tour on Lake Powell | Sunset at Horseshoe Bend |
| 2-3 Days | Antelope Canyon Tour | Rent a boat or kayak | Dinner at Lake Powell Resort |
| Week | Rainbow Bridge boat trip | Colorado River float trip | Stargazing at Lone Rock Beach |
Ready for Your Glen Canyon Adventure?
Start planning your perfect trip today with these essential travel services:
Visitor Centers
Make the Carl Hayden Visitor Center your first stop to get oriented, pick up maps, and check on current conditions. Rangers can provide valuable advice on activities suited to your interests and abilities. The Glen Canyon Conservancy Flagship store in Page offers additional resources and locally made souvenirs.
Experience the Magic of Glen Canyon
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility in one of America’s most stunning landscapes. From the thrill of exploring narrow slot canyons to peaceful evenings watching the sunset paint the red rocks in golden hues, this remarkable destination creates memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, photographic opportunities, or simply a place to reconnect with nature, Glen Canyon’s unique combination of water and wilderness provides an unforgettable experience that will call you back again and again.
The magic of Glen Canyon stays with you long after your visit ends
The above is subject to change.
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