Horseshoe Bend is a large bend in the Colorado River. You may have seen pictures of this famous bend on social media. It is one of the most photographed sites in Arizona and one of Instagram’s most tagged locations. Horseshoe Bend appeals to many visitors because it’s a short hike with easy access and a breathtaking view.
The Hike to Horseshoe Bend
The hike to the overlook is 1.5 miles round-trip. The trail is well-maintained and consists of a hard dirt path. Years ago, the trail was a sandy, challenging climb, but with recent updates, it is now ADA-accessible!
There are a couple of shade structures and resting spots along the length of the trail, but none at the viewing area. Once you reach Horseshoe Bend, a railing is at the edge of the overlook, but the barrier is only in one area. The railing covers approximately 5% of the viewpoint, which is great because it provides a safe location to look over the edge, but there are also many views with no railing at all. That said, please don’t get too close to the 1000-foot ledge!
As with any hike, be prepared with water and sturdy footwear! There is no water at Horseshoe Bend, so be sure to bring some. The trail is not technical, but if you can hike up and down the rocks along the rim, the sandstone can be slick, and good shoes are a must.
Hiking Horseshoe Bend takes roughly 30 to 40 minutes; however, the time you spend taking photos and enjoying the view is entirely up to you. On average, most visitors spend an hour, but you can stay as long as you choose.
The Best Time to Visit Horseshoe Bend
If you want a great picture, the best time to visit the bend is late morning or mid-day, when there are no shadows from the sun rising or setting. Otherwise, the view is stunning all day long.
Horseshoe Bend is open year-round, but spring and fall provide the best weather. During the summer, temperatures can get really hot, and in the winter, it gets really cold, so if you go during those times, just make sure to dress adequately and come prepared.
The Entrance Cost
The hike to Horseshoe Bend is free, but there is a small fee to park in the parking lot. There is no parking along the road, so you must park in the lot. The last time I went, the cost was $10 per vehicle and $5 per motorcycle. But you will want to check the official city website for updates before you go. The view is worth the parking fee!
How was Horseshoe Bend Formed?
Horseshoe Bend was formed millions of years ago! It started as one giant sand dune. Over time, the sand solidified into the sandstone we see today. Then, water from what is now the Colorado River came and cut through the sandstone, forming Horseshoe Bend and the Grand Canyon.
Taking Horseshoe Bend to Another Level
If you loved seeing Horseshoe Bend from above, you should check it out from below. If you have time, kayaking past Horseshoe Bend on the Colorado River has become a popular activity. A few services in Page will backhaul you up the river so you can kayak back down it. The boats will drop you off near the Glen Canyon Dam and pick you up at Lee’s Ferry.
You can also see the Horseshoe Bend while on a fishing trip or rafting the Colorado River. Fishing guides and river raft adventures are available in Page, Arizona, and surrounding areas.
Nearby Hikes
There are several attractions and hikes near Horseshoe Bend. Here are some notable ones.
Antelope Canyon Via Lake Powell
Kayaking through Antelope Canyon offers a unique perspective of the iconic slot canyon from Lake Powell. The difficulty of the kayaking experience can vary depending on weather conditions, but it’s generally suitable for beginners with basic paddling skills. The distance covered during a typical kayaking trip through Antelope Canyon is around 5 miles round trip. The end of the canyon provides a hiking trail through the slot canyon that is typically 2 miles round trip.
Chains
What is 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 a great viewpoint of Glen Canyon Dam and bridge. The trail is rated moderate, and the distance is typically 2 miles roundtrip.
Glen Canyon Dam & Carl Hayden Visitor Center
Located in Page, Arizona, the Glen Canyon Dam is a massive concrete arch dam that spans the Colorado River, forming Lake Powell, one of the largest man-made reservoirs in the United States. The Carl Hayden Visitor Center, situated near the dam, offers exhibits, interactive displays, and educational programs about the dam’s construction, the ecology of the Colorado River Basin, and the cultural significance of the region’s Native American tribes.
Glen Canyon Dam Overlook
The Glen Canyon Dam Overlook is located in Page, Arizona. It gives visitors a stunning panoramic view of the Glen Canyon Dam, the Colorado River, and the surrounding desert landscape. Visiting the overlook is generally easy, with a short walk from the parking area to the viewpoint. The path is well-maintained; however, some uneven terrain or steps may be along the way. The walk from the parking area to the viewpoint is less than half a mile round trip.
Lower Antelope Canyon
Antelope Canyon is a stunning slot canyon near Page, Arizona. The hike through Lower Antelope Canyon is relatively easy, primarily involving walking along the sandy canyon floor with occasional steps and ladders. The distance covered during the guided tour typically ranges from around 0.5 to 1 mile round trip.
Upper Antelope Canyon
Upper Antelope Canyon is a world-renowned slot canyon located near Page, Arizona. It is known for its mesmerizing light beams and sandstone walls. Hiking through Upper Antelope Canyon is relatively easy, mainly involving walking along the sandy canyon floor. The distance covered during a tour typically ranges from around 0.25 to 0.5 miles round trip.
Leave It Better Than You Found It
Do your part to keep Horseshoe Bend 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!
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