Top Things to Do on Your Visit to Lake Powell/ Page, AZ
Explore Lake Powell’s hidden gems and scenic views with this mini guide. Featuring 11 things you can’t miss on your visit.
Lake Powell also known as the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is a top summer destination for travelers and roadtrippers alike. Occupying over 1 million acres and covering two states, Lake Powell offers incredible hiking, camping, off roading, guided tours, and water activities galore.
It’s tucked in between Zion National Park and Monument Valley in Northern Arizona/ Southern Utah making it a must do on any southwest roadtrip. If you enjoy sunshine, boating, and endless desert views then you will love Lake Powell.
In this post we are sharing the top things you can’t miss on your visit.
NAVAJO MOUNTAIN & WAHWEAP SCENIC VIEWPOINTS
For some of the best views of Lake Powell jump on the scenic Lakeshore Drive to Wahweap and Navajo Mountain viewpoints. These lookouts are located inside the National Park just passed the east entrance station.
Visitors are able to park in the designated parking areas and get an unbelievable view of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. Pack a picnic or come for sunset and enjoy the amazing view. The $25 entrance fee is required or the National Parks Annual Pass.
CARL HAYDEN VISITOR CENTER
To learn all about the dam that created Lake Powell, stop at the Carl Hayden Visitor Center. Located just outside the entrance to Lake Powell, the Carl Hayden Visitor Center offers several exhibits showcasing all about how the dam works, water usage, and much more.
Take in the views from the massive windows overlooking the dam or walk out onto the Glen Canyon Bridge. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and offers a large parking area great for RV travelers. This is one of the top things to do when visiting Page Arizona.
GLEN CANYON DAM OVERLOOK
For a wide angle view of the Glen Canyon Dam head over to the Glen Canyon Dam Overlook located just outside the town of Page. This scenic overlook descends down slick red rock to a breathtaking view of the south side of the Glen Canyon Dam and the massive canyon below. Sturdy shoes are recommended.
KAYAK THE COLORADO RIVER
Explore life on the canyon floor on a scenic kayak trip through Horseshoe Bend. This is one of the most popular family friendly day trips and a great way to experience the area.
Kayak trips on the Colorado River explore the south side of the Glen Canyon Dam, through Horseshoe Bend and down to Lees Ferry. Available as day trips or overnight trips March to October.
Check out our post How to Kayak the Colorado River Through Horseshoe Bend for more info.
HORSESHOE BEND OVERLOOK
No trip to Page would be complete without a stop at the iconic Horseshoe Bend. To get to Horseshoe Bend take the 5 minute drive south of Page on 89a, pay the $10 entrance fee and walk the short 1.5 mile out & back trail to the canyon edge.
For those with a fear of heights there is a guardrail section to view the canyon however you will see people viewing the canyon from many questionable areas. The large parking area makes this an easy stop for RV travelers.
GET ON THE WATER
If you’re coming all the way to Lake Powell then you must spend a day out on the water. After all how many places can you enjoy so many water activities in the middle of the desert? Visitors looking to explore Lake Powell can rent a power boat, jet ski, kayak, or enjoy a variety of scenic boat tours. Our personal favorite spots to explore are Lone Rock, Ice Cream Canyon, and all the shoreline around the lake.
Rentals are available at the Lake Powell Resort or you can bring your own watercraft. Best to check the weather before hand and make sure it’s not a high wind day.
For more info visit the Lake Powell website.
STAY ON LAKE POWELL
For a memorable visit to Lake Powell stay overnight in a houseboat and explore the lake on your own. Houseboats range from the 46 ft Expedition to the 75 ft Excursion and offers a variety of activities and amenities.
Or take in the view from the Lake Powell Resort Hotel and RV Park. Grab a bite to eat at the Rainbow Room or enjoy a cocktail at the Driftwood Lounge, either way you’re sure to enjoy your stay at Lake Powell.
NEW WAVE TRAIL
The New Wave hiking trail is located right across the street from Lake Powell and showcases unique wave like features in orange sandstone with great views of Lake Powell in the distance. The trail is a moderate 1.4 mile loop with 141 feet if elevation gain.
Pets are allowed but it can be a bit slippery from the slick rock so be cautious if you plan to bring your pup. Parking at the trail is limited. Beehive campground is a short walk from the trailhead.
TOADSTOOL HOODOOS
Located just 20 minutes west of Page in Utah, is the amazing Toadstool Hoodoos. This short 1.5 mile out & back trail is dog friendly and takes you to towering alcoves and unique orange hoodoos. The trail is located right off 89A making this trail a easy roadside stop.
LONE ROCK
During the month of May fragrant white flowers bloom all around Lake Powell and Lone Rock is one of the best spots to see them. Lone Rock is located on the west side of Lake Powell and offers amazing overnight camping and tons of shoreline for kayaking, swimming, or just hanging out on the beach.
Most of Lone Rock is sand so a high clearance 4x4 vehicle is recommended. No reservations are required for camping at Lone Rock but the $25 entrance fee or National Park Pass is required.
ANTELOPE CANYON TOUR
Join a local outfitter on a guided tour through the iconic Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon. This is a top destination in Northern Arizona and the only way to explore these amazing slot canyons. Several Navajo companies offer hourly tours year round and share the geology, history, and culture of the land.
Tour prices range from $55 per person and can go all the way up to $200 per person.
Let us know in the comments what are your favorite things to do at Lake Powell!
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