Photographed and Written by Gwendolyn Call
It’s easy to see why so many people flock to Page, Arizona, like the history, landscape, hikes, slot canyons and views. Its accessibility to those adventurous folk and those who don’t want to venture too far off the beaten path make Page a lovely place to visit. Page is one of those destinations with views and scenery that you can put little effort into for huge returns. And, while it’s a bit small, this town packs quite a punch featuring many exhilarating adventures. Let’s dive in and get started.
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10. Lone Rock Beach—Don’t let the name fool you; this is a famous rock to view but is situated on the sands of Lake Powell. So if you’re craving water and sand time, this is your spot. A short drive through the Lake Powell region of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area will eventually lead you to Lone Rock Beach. Its name derives from a not-so-lonely, proudly standing rock formation visible from the shoreline. This is a popular place for almost everyone visiting. Pack lunch and bring the camera. It’s a picture-worthy scene.
9. Wahweap Overlook—If you want a beautiful spot to take in the lake, then the Wahweap Overlook, just off Highway 89, is the place to go. This is another less-popular destination that holds sights that you’ll not want to miss and with minimal effort. The overlook has no admission fee and is practically free from the crowds. Of the vistas available, the best one for a panoramic view is at Wahweap Overlook. This spectacular viewpoint provides an elevated perspective of the Lake Powell region that should be on every road trip itinerary. You’ll be impressed with the surrounding mesas and buttes, and, best of all, you get that panoramic view of Page, the Glen Canyon Dam and Lake Powell. If you’re a photographer, this is another epic picture-worthy location.
8. Carl Hayden Visitor Center—Perched high above the Colorado River, this circular building is filled with exciting history and engaging exhibits. A stop here is perfect for anyone, but we strongly encourage a visit if you have children. This is part of The National Parks, and they have a Junior Ranger Program. This facility will give visitors a fun history lesson about water storage through its videos, exhibits and maps. It’s genuinely fascinating, and while you enjoy all the learning, you have one of the best panoramic views of the dam.
7. Rainbow Bridge National Monument—If you’re exploring the American Southwest, you’ll undoubtedly discover many arches and natural bridges, but Rainbow Bridge is the largest. What’s intriguing to onlookers is the legends from Native American mythology that suggest it has been impressing onlookers for thousands of years. A true sight to behold, this rock formation is otherworldly. During summer, Ranger Programs educate visitors on the bridge’s history, and a Junior Ranger program is available for the kids. Getting to this bridge requires a boat ride and a hike of at least one mile. Paid boat tours are available for those who don’t have a boat of their own.
6. Lake Powell—When the Glen Canyon Dam was built in 1963, it created Lake Powell. Lake Powell has 2,000 miles of shoreline to explore, helping rediscover the great outdoors. This lake offers ample opportunities to have fun on the lake and be active or to find a quiet spot and soak in the landscape. You could fill your vacation days fishing, waterskiing, swimming, wakeboarding and paddle boarding. This is a dream lake for water lovers, and the bonus is the dramatic landscape views you can see from the lake.
5. Antelope Canyon—Nestled on Navajo land, this sandstone slot canyon amazes visitors with its awe-inspiring scenery and geological formations. These miracles of nature are filled with vibrant and colorful displays of what nature can do. They are prime examples of what occurs when wind, rain and sand are left seemingly untouched to create art in sandstone. If you only see one thing in Page, make it the Antelope Slot Canyons, divided into an upper and lower section. Local Navajo tribes operate these canyons, located on native land. You can take a 1-hour guided tour of this attraction, which requires reservations and books up fast. There are two stunning canyons, lower and upper, offering different desires. The upper canyon doesn’t require much activity, while the lower canyon requires some climbing.
4. Hanging Garden—If you want to visit a less popular spot and stretch your legs in the nearby area, then the Hanging Garden Hike is an easy 1.2-mile walk that takes you into the desert, offering panoramic views. It’s one of the lesser-known things to do in Page, and we saw no one on our visit. There is a hanging garden on the trail, and amazingly, it thrives in this desert landscape. The views, quiet location and the hanging garden area, are reason enough to add this to your list.
3. The Chains—This do-it-yourself nature hike is a must-see. The best part of the incredible location is you can park and walk less than 20 feet for a dramatic landscape, skipping any hiking. You can also continue and walk alongside the water on an exhilarating terrain that follows the edge of the water line. I strongly suggest packing a lunch and enjoying nature’s built-in picnic areas. Sprawl out on one of the many flat red rocks to sit back and soak in the view. It offers a sense of solitude and peace. If you venture to the nature hike, it is a simple trot along the lake’s edge.
2. Glen Canyon Dam—The Glen Canyon Dam is a famous landmark in Page and one of the largest in the U.S. You’ll likely see it when you drive in. Many people walk the bridge above the dam. It isn’t easy to gaze at the Glen Canyon Dam without being impressed by the magnitude of the engineering feet. However, if you’d like something more adventurous, you can witness the dam from the sky on a helicopter or rafting trip or from the water. No matter what you choose, you’ll likely drive over the dam at some point during your trip.
1. Horseshoe Bend—This horseshoe-shaped meander, shaped by the Colorado River, is an absolute must-see upon your visit to Page. The views and rugged scenery will leave you in awe and have you coming back for more. From the parking lot, you’ll take the 1.5-mile-long hike to the main overlook, where you can enjoy the view of this natural wonder. The walk is straightforward, but pack your water because it can get hot. I suggest a sunrise or sunset visit if you’re headed there for photography. Sunset is said to be the best time, but dawn can hold its own for pictures of this incredible view.
As you can see, adventure awaits in Page, Arizona. Finding things to do is easy, and the options seem endless for such a tiny town in Arizona. From hiking, kayaking and incredible photography, we know you’ll enjoy your time. Page is a must-see if you’re traveling through the southwest and a destination that will have you longing to return for more.
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