The Glen Canyon Dam Overlook is a quick and easy spot to check out amazing views of the Glen Canyon Dam and the Colorado River. Located in Page, Arizona, this hidden gem doesn’t require a long hike or tons of planning—perfect for travelers who want jaw-dropping scenery without the sweat.
From the overlook, you’ll get an unbeatable vantage point of the dam’s massive concrete walls towering above the winding river below. It’s a must-see stop for photographers, road trippers, or anyone craving a stunning look at the engineering marvel that helped shape the American Southwest.
Directions to the Glen Canyon Dam Overlook
The overlook is in Page, Arizona, behind Denny’s Restaurant and Windgate Hotel. Because of its location, the Glen Canyon Dam overlook is referred to by locals as “the Denny’s Overlook.” The Denny’s restaurant used to be the only building in the area. The trail begins at the parking lot.
The Hike
The hike to the overlook is a simple down-and-back trail to a viewing area, but the view is amazing! The hike does require walking up and down some uneven rock stairs, but a handrail is provided. The total distance is less than a half mile.
The Views
This Glen Canyon Dam Overlook has great views. Looking upstream, you get a unique perspective of the Glen Canyon Dam, one of the largest dams in the US. Looking downstream, you see the beautiful Colorado River bending and twisting in between the high walls of the canyon.
Because the hike to the overlook is not as popular as the hike to Horseshoe Bend, you can get a good view of the river without the large crowds.
The overlook is a great place to catch a sunset and a great place to visit after a rainstorm. When it rains in Page, the excess water runs into the river, creating giant waterfalls. These falls are quite impressive and a rare treat!
Other Nearby Overlooks
There are many great hikes and overlooks in the area. In addition to the Glen Canyon Dam overlook, you should consider checking out Wahweap Overlook , Navajo Bridge, and Horseshoe Bend!
Cool Things to Know About the Glen Canyon Dam
Glen Canyon Dam is a concrete arch dam on the Colorado River in northern Arizona, USA. Here are some interesting facts about the Glen Canyon Dam:
- Location:
- Glen Canyon Dam is located near Page, Arizona. It impounds Lake Powell, one of the largest reservoirs in the United States.
- Construction:
- The dam was completed in 1966 as part of the Colorado River Storage Project. It is a crucial component of the project’s infrastructure, providing water storage, hydroelectric power generation, and flood control.
- Purpose:
- Glen Canyon Dam serves multiple purposes, including water storage, hydroelectric power generation, and the regulation of flows along the river
- Hydroelectric Power:
- The dam has a hydroelectric power plant that generates electricity. The power plant has a capacity of over 1,300 megawatts, making it a significant source of electrical power in the region.
- Lake Powell:
- The dam forms Lake Powell, which stretches for about 186 miles through the canyons of Utah and Arizona. Lake Powell is a popular recreational area, attracting visitors for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities.
- Carl Hayden Visitor Center:
- Check out the Glen Canyon Dam Visitors Center if you’re interested in learning more about the dam’s construction, operation, and surrounding area. The visitor center provides educational exhibits.|
- Check out the Glen Canyon Dam Visitors Center if you’re interested in learning more about the dam’s construction, operation, and surrounding area. The visitor center provides educational exhibits.|
Leave It Better Than You Found It
Always do your part to keep the area beautiful by packing out everything you pack in and not changing the landscape. 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!