Page, Arizona Travel Guide
Nestled on the Arizona-Utah border, Page, Arizona, is the perfect base for exploring some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Southwest. Perched at the southern end of Lake Powell, this small town is surrounded by towering red rock formations, slot canyons, and the winding Colorado River. But Page is more than just a scenic stop—it’s also deeply connected to Navajo culture and history, as it borders a significant portion of Navajo Nation land. Many of the area’s most famous landmarks, including Antelope Canyon and parts of Glen Canyon, are tribally managed, offering visitors a chance to experience both natural beauty and Indigenous heritage.
Page is conveniently located just a couple of hours from Flagstaff and the Grand Canyon, and only a few hours’ drive from Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks. This makes it an ideal stop on a Southwest road trip, whether you’re exploring Utah’s Mighty Five or venturing through Arizona’s canyon country.
I recommend spending at least two to three nights in Page to experience its natural wonders and outdoor adventures. While you may not have time to see everything on this list in a single weekend, choosing just two or three highlights will still leave you with an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re kayaking on Lake Powell, hiking through slot canyons, or marveling at the iconic Horseshoe Bend, Page offers a perfect mix of adventure and scenery for any traveler.
Horseshoe Bend
One of the most iconic viewpoints in the Southwest, Horseshoe Bend is a breathtaking overlook where the Colorado River makes a dramatic, horseshoe-shaped curve through the canyon. Just south of Glen Canyon Dam, this spot is a must-visit for anyone traveling through Page, offering unparalleled photo opportunities and an awe-inspiring perspective on the power of nature.
The parking area for Horseshoe Bend is located about 10 minutes south of Page along Highway 89. From the parking lot, a 1.5-mile round-trip hike takes you to the edge of the overlook. The trail is relatively easy but exposed, so bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat, especially if visiting in the warmer months. While the viewpoint itself is free to access, parking costs $10 per vehicle (cash or card accepted).
Another Way to Experience Horseshoe Bend
If you’re looking for a more immersive way to experience Horseshoe Bend, consider floating down the Colorado River from Glen Canyon Dam to Lees Ferry. This smooth-water stretch of the river winds through the stunning canyon, offering a completely different perspective from the water.
This 16-mile trip can be done as a one-day paddle for ambitious kayakers or as a more relaxed overnight trip, with designated campsites along the way. Because there’s no direct river access at the dam, you’ll need to hire a backhaul service, such as Kayak the Colorado, to transport you and your gear from Lees Ferry back up to the Glen Canyon Dam.
This bucket-list adventure has been on my radar for a few years now, and I’m hoping to finally make it happen in 2025—so stay tuned for a future post with all the details!
Slot Canyons near Page, AZ
Antelope Canyon is one of the most famous slot canyons in the world, known for its smooth, wave-like sandstone walls and the mesmerizing beams of light that shine through its narrow openings. Located on Navajo land, this stunning natural wonder is more accessible than many of the technical slot canyons in southern Utah, making it an excellent option for visitors who want to experience a slot canyon without requiring canyoneering skills. However, because it is on tribal land, a guided tour is required to explore it.
Antelope Canyon Tours
Antelope Canyon is divided into three sections: Upper Antelope Canyon, Lower Antelope Canyon, and the Recreation (River) Section.
- Upper Antelope Canyon
- The most popular section, known for its dramatic sunbeams that shine through the canyon walls (best seen midday).
- It has a flat, easy walking path, making it ideal for visitors with mobility concerns.
- The canyon walls are taller and more open at the top, allowing for striking photography opportunities.
- Lower Antelope Canyon
- A narrower and more twisting slot canyon, with stunning rock formations and colors.
- Requires descending a steep metal staircase and navigating some tighter sections.
- Generally less crowded than the Upper Canyon, making it a favorite for those looking for a slightly more adventurous experience.
I personally toured the Lower Antelope Canyon with Dixie Ellis Tours, and it was an unforgettable experience. I’d love to return to explore the Upper Canyon in the future! If you’re deciding between the two, check out this helpful comparison: Antelope Canyon Tours.
Exploring Antelope Canyon from the Water
For a completely different perspective, you can also explore Antelope Canyon by kayak or paddleboard via the Recreation Section that extends from Lake Powell into Antelope Creek.
This adventure starts on Lake Powell, where you’ll paddle into the narrowing canyon before reaching a hiking section at the end of the creek. However, the ability to hike further into the canyon depends on water levels, which can fluctuate.
Several companies, such as Lake Powell Paddleboards and Kayak Lake Powell, offer half-day guided tours that combine paddling and hiking. While experienced paddlers can rent equipment and explore on their own, I highly recommend a guided tour for beginners, as wind and boat traffic on Lake Powell can make paddling challenging.
Lake Powell
A visit to Page wouldn’t be complete without spending time on or around Lake Powell. This massive reservoir, formed by the construction of Glen Canyon Dam, is a key feature of the Upper Colorado River Basin and serves as the heart of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. While the dam itself has been a controversial subject among environmentalists for decades (ever read The Monkey Wrench Gang by Edward Abbey?), there’s no denying that Lake Powell offers incredible recreational opportunities for paddlers, boaters, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Paddle on the Lake
The easiest and most budget-friendly way to experience Lake Powell is by paddleboard or kayak. You can rent gear directly at the lake from Wahweap Marina, from vendors in town, or bring your own if you have one.
However, be aware of quagga mussel contamination—an invasive species that has taken hold in Lake Powell. Before launching your craft in any other body of water, you’ll need to undergo a watercraft inspection to prevent the spread of these mussels.
If you’re looking for a quieter paddle away from motorboat traffic, head to Lone Rock Beach—a primitive camping area managed by the National Park Service (NPS). This is a great spot to day camp and paddle from while enjoying a more peaceful setting.
For those who don’t mind sharing the water with motorboats, consider paddling from Wahweap Marina or Antelope Point. However, be flexible with your route—water levels fluctuate, and some areas may become un-navigable at lower water levels.
Lake Powell Boating Trips
If you prefer speed and covering more ground, renting a boat or jet skis from Wahweap Marina is a thrilling way to explore Lake Powell.
- Pontoon boats (party barges) are great for a relaxing day on the water with friends or family.
- Runabouts with wakeboards and tubes provide more adrenaline-pumping fun.
- Jet skis offer a nimble way to zip through the lake’s countless inlets and canyons.
The biggest advantage of a motorized watercraft is the ability to explore more of the lake in a single day—especially if you want to venture beyond the main marina areas.
Visit Rainbow Bridge
If you’re up for a full-day adventure, consider taking a boat tour to Rainbow Bridge National Monument, one of the largest natural bridges in the world. This massive sandstone arch stands 290 feet tall and 275 feet across, making it a truly awe-inspiring sight. Located in a remote area of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Rainbow Bridge is primarily accessed by boat, as land routes require long backcountry hikes which are best suited for experienced hikers comfortable with multi-day backpacking trips.
The 50-mile boat ride across Lake Powell to reach Rainbow Bridge is an experience in itself, winding through deep canyons and past stunning rock formations. Once you arrive, a short hike (about 1.25 miles round trip, depending on water levels) takes you to the base of the bridge, where you can fully appreciate its scale.
🔗 More info & bookings: Lake Powell Boat Tours – Rainbow Bridge
While there are hiking routes to Rainbow Bridge, they require a permit to cross Navajo land and involve a 16+ mile trek each way, making boating the most accessible option.
The Cultural Significance of Rainbow Bridge
For the Navajo people, Rainbow Bridge is a sacred site known as “Nonnezoshe,” meaning “rainbow turned to stone”. It is considered a place of deep spiritual importance, and visitors are asked to respect its sacred nature by remaining on designated trails and avoiding walking beneath the bridge. While hiking to and around Rainbow Bridge is allowed, climbing on the formation itself is strictly prohibited to honor its cultural significance.
Learn about Glen Canyon Dam
One of the most impressive engineering feats of the 20th century, Glen Canyon Dam was completed in 1966 and took 14 years to fill to capacity. The dam plays a critical role in water management for the Southwest and generates hydroelectric power.
Just driving across the bridge over the Colorado River is a jaw-dropping experience. If you have time, stop by the visitor center to learn more about the dam’s history, function, and the recent dramatic fluctuations in water levels.
When I visited in 2018, dam tours were still available, but they have since been discontinued due to security concerns. However, the visitor center and scenic viewpoints still provide fascinating insights into the dam and Lake Powell.
Page, Arizona, may be a small town, but it’s packed with incredible outdoor adventures and some of the most stunning scenery in the Southwest. Whether you’re standing at the edge of Horseshoe Bend, exploring the narrow passageways of Antelope Canyon, or paddling through the hidden coves of Lake Powell, this destination offers a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and breathtaking landscapes. With so much to see and do, spending at least two to three days here ensures you can experience a few key highlights without feeling rushed.
Planning a trip to Page and the surrounding Southwest can feel overwhelming—especially when deciding which destinations to pair together, how to time activities, and where to find the best tours. If you want a stress-free, customized itinerary that fits your travel style and interests, I can help! As a custom travel planner, I specialize in creating personalized itineraries for national park and adventure travel. Whether you’re planning a Southwest road trip, a weekend getaway to Page, or an extended journey through Utah and Arizona, I’ll handle the details so you can focus on enjoying the adventure.
Want a tailored travel plan designed just for you? Check out my travel planning services or reach out to start crafting your perfect Southwest getaway!