3 Amazing Things to See in Page, Arizona
Page, Arizona is a popular stop for adventurers who are either passing through or stopping for a very specific sight to see. Whether you’re on your way to Bryce Canyon or Zion National Park, or you’re stopping here to explore a natural wonder or two, you should know that are 3 amazing things here every traveler must stop and see.
1. Horseshoe Bend
1. Horseshoe Bend
Located just 4 miles southwest of Page is the remarkable horse-shoe shaped incised meander of the Colorado River called Horseshoe Bend. For years this incredible lookout was mostly visited by the nearby locals, but social media ramped up it’s popularity. It’s now a common tourist stop with over 2 million visits per year. It’s just a 3/5 mile hike from the parking area, located off the U.S. Route 89, and is open from sunrise to sunset.
The overlook is a 1,000 foot drop, so be smart with your selfie-taking. The most popular times to visit are between 9 to 11 a.m. and 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. to catch that perfect sunset. Keep in mind that temperatures peak in the early afternoon. Water bottles are always a wise idea to bring with. Although the park does not check, it would be wise to wear closed-toe shoes and have sunglasses with you.
A few more things to note is that drones are not allowed and parking costs $10. Other than that, bring a camera that takes good pictures. You’ll want that when you see the breathtaking view. Pictures may not do this outstanding wonder justice though, so take it all in while you’re there. There are also tours available that I’ll link below, but this visit is easily doable on your own. To learn more about it’s 5 million year geological history, click HERE.
2. Antelope Canyon
Antelope Canyon is a popular place for tourists to see, and for good reason. It is not possible to visit without a licensed tour guide. Travelers have different options when heading here. They can either book a tour within the slot canyon known as Tsé bighánílíní, a.k.a. Upper Antelope Canyon, or Hazdistazí, a.k.a. Lower Antelope Canyon. Both are incredible settings that will have you taking more pictures than you intended to.
Upper Antelope Canyon has other slots within that can be visited. Those are called Rattle Snake Canyon, Own Canyon, and Mountain Sheep Canyon. I didn’t do this tour myself, but reading about it online, it appears to take about 90 minutes total. The online reviews speak for themselves.
I did the tour of Lower Antelope Canyon, sometimes referred to as “the Corkscrew”. It was also around 90 minutes long, and it was well worth the $90 admission fee. Think of it like $1/minute. The trek in and through this canyon was fun and educational, thanks to our tour guide. Some might describe this place as magical, though the local tribe members lean more toward “spiritual”. Sign up for your tour of choice below.
3. Glen Canyon Dam
This 710-foot high dam located just north of Page is is the second highest concrete-arch dam in the U.S. It’s steep, rust-colored sandstone walls make it a spectacular sight to see, perfect for pictures and gazing out over Lake Powell. There are several lookout points and usually plenty of free parking spaces. The Carl B. Hayden Visitor Center is open Thursdays – Monday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. You’ll find exhibits, ranger presentations, and a gift shop inside.
There’s plenty of history and controversy surrounding this admired architecture. Glen Canyon dam offers educational tours that are currently on hold, but you can read a lot about this stunning structure HERE.
NORTHERN ARIZONA
After you check these three awe-inspiring attractions, you’ve just checked off three major boxes that are on many bucket lists. While Page is a must-stop if you’re doing a road trip across the wild west, there’s going to be plenty of other places you’ll want to see as well. If you’re headed south, stopping in the transcendent town of Sedona is a must. I’ve composed a list a trails and things to see while you’re there that you can check out HERE and HERE. Happy trails to you on your trek!
