An area known as the Chains is the closest place to access Lake Powell from Page, Arizona. The area is great for swimming, fishing, and hiking. The rock formations are beautiful, and the views of the water are spectacular. You can also see great views of the Glen Canyon Dam and bridge.
The trail to the Hanging Gardens is in the same area. The Haning Gardens are unique colonies of plants that grow vertically out of the sandstone. They are able to grow because water is stored in the rocks above and moves down the cracks in the sandstone, providing a long-lasting, natural spring. It’s interesting to see such lush vegetation growing in the desert, especially in the summertime.
Directions to the Chains and Hanging Gardens from Page, Arizona
The road to the Chains is not well-marked. From Page, Arizona, head toward the Glen Canyon Dam and take the first right turn before the bridge. The road will take you to the Hanging Garden trailhead. If you continue to drive down the dirt road, there is a lower parking lot with a bathroom and dumpster. This is where you will park to access the Chains. There is not a well-marked trail from the parking lot–you just start hiking toward the water.
Hiking to the Chains
There is not a specific trail styem at the chains, but the entire area is beautiful and fun to explore. If you just want to get to the water, it takes about 15 minutes. There are multiple ways down. If you’re not interested in swimming or dipping your feet in the lake, you should consider hiking up toward the higher rocks. There are great views of Lake Powell from above.
Hiking to the Hanging Gardens
The Hanging Gardens hike is close to the Chains. The trailhead to the Hanging Gardens is marked with a sign at the parking lot where the trail begins. The hike to the Hanging Gardens is 1.5 miles roundtrip. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow. Most of the trail is exposed to the sun, but when you reach the Hanging Gardens, it will be shady.
Swimming at the Chains
The Chains is one of my favorite places to swim because the water is crystal clear. The beach at the Chains consists of hard sandstone, and there is no fine sand. The water near the shore is usually shallow, but if you leave the shallow rock ledges, the lake drops down hundreds of feet. Make sure you are a confident swimmer and/or you have a life jacket before entering the water at the Chains.
Fishing from the Chains
The Chains area is one of the best shore-fishing locations on Lake Powell. You can catch stripers, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and catfish. When fishing, make sure you have a fishing license, and please don’t leave any trash behind.
Day Use Only
The gates to the Chains area are open daily from 8 AM to sunset. You do not need a permit to enter the area, and there is no entry fee. Camping is now allowed.
Leave It Better Than You Found It
Always remember to do your part to keep the area beautiful by packing in everything you pack out and not changing the landscape. Remember to respect nature and follow ethical practices when engaging in outdoor activities. Always leave a place better than you found it, and practice the principles of Leave No Trace. Enjoy your time exploring the trails and discovering the area’s hidden treasures!