Five miles south of Page, the Colorado River makes a perfect 270-degree loop around a sandstone butte. From the rim, 1,000 feet above the water, it is one of the most photographed views in the Southwest — and one of the easiest to reach.
Things to do in Horseshoe Bend
The overlook
A railed viewing platform and miles of unfenced rim. A wide-angle lens (or your phone’s 0.5×) is needed to fit the whole bend.
2Float trip below the dam
Half-day smooth-water rafts start at the foot of Glen Canyon Dam and drift around Horseshoe Bend, ending at Lees Ferry, with petroglyphs on the way.
See tours and tickets partner link3Glen Canyon Dam overlook
A short walk to a viewpoint over the 710-foot dam and the Colorado River gorge, at the edge of Page.
Heat and the edge
In summer the walk is fully exposed and temperatures reach 100°F (38°C): go early, carry water. Most of the rim is unfenced and the sandstone can crumble: stay back from the edge, especially with children.
Where to stay in Horseshoe Bend
Stay in Page, 10 minutes away; see our Antelope Canyon guide for areas.
Our 2 hotel picks in Horseshoe Bend
Photos, facilities and tips →
Boutique$$$$Shash Diné Eco-Retreat
Navajo Nation, 12 miles south of Page off US-89
Hogans, bell tents and sheepherder wagons on a Navajo sheep ranch, five minutes from Horseshoe Bend.
Family$$$$Lake Powell Resort
Wahweap Marina, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, north of Page
Lake-view rooms, two pools and a marina on Lake Powell, with Horseshoe Bend rafting run by the same team.
Page
$$$$Best for: everyone
Hotels for all budgets, near Antelope Canyon and Lake Powell.
Hotels in Page partner linkWeather in Horseshoe Bend by month
Compare every destination month by month in the when-to-go explorer.
Horseshoe Bend: your questions
How long is the walk to Horseshoe Bend?
1.5 miles (2.4 km) return on a wide path, with a gentle climb on the way back. Allow about an hour.
Is there a fee for Horseshoe Bend?
Yes, a parking fee per vehicle collected by the City of Page. National park passes do not cover it.
What is the best time to photograph Horseshoe Bend?
Mid-morning gives full light on the river; late afternoon gives warm light with some shadow. At midday the light is flat.
Written by Kylian Dev · Last reviewed October 21, 2026. Prices are in US dollars, before sales tax.