Horseshoe Bend
- Admission
- Free entry ($10 parking fee per vehicle)
- Hours
- Sunrise to sunset daily
- Duration
- 1-2 hours
- Parking
- Paved parking lot available off Highway 89 for a fee; roadside parking is strictly prohibited
- Access
- An ADA-accessible, hard-surfaced trail leads to a viewing platform equipped with safety railings
This dramatic, horseshoe-shaped meander of the Colorado River offers breathtaking views from steep sandstone cliffs. Located just outside Page, Arizona, its emerald waters contrast beautifully with the fiery orange canyon walls. It is a stunning natural wonder that has become one of the most photographed spots in the American Southwest.
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Formed over millions of years as the Colorado River carved through Navajo sandstone, Horseshoe Bend is a dramatic horseshoe-shaped meander. Located just a few miles from the Glen Canyon Dam, this natural wonder showcases the sheer power of water erosion on the ancient desert landscape.
Visitors can reach the overlook via a well-maintained, 1.5-mile round-trip trail that leads directly to the canyon's edge. Standing roughly 1,000 feet above the emerald-green river, the viewing platform offers a dizzying perspective of the sweeping curve below.
Once a quiet local secret, it has transitioned into one of the most photographed geological features in the American Southwest. The dramatic contrast between the glowing sandstone walls and the deep blue desert sky makes it an unforgettable stop.
Ratings
landmarkVisitor Tips
- ◆ Visit during sunset or sunrise to capture the most dramatic colors and avoid the harshest midday heat.
- ◆ Bring plenty of water, even for the short hike, as there is absolutely no shade along the trail.
- ◆ Expect to pay a vehicle parking fee at the city-run trailhead lot, which is not covered by the National Parks Pass.
- ◆ Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes to comfortably navigate the sandy and uneven terrain leading to the overlook.
Heads Up
- ◆ The cliff edges are extremely high and mostly unfenced; exercise extreme caution and stay well back from the rim.
- ◆ Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F (38°C), making heat exhaustion a serious risk during mid-day visits.
- ◆ Do not throw rocks or objects over the edge, as there may be kayakers and rafters on the river below.
Common questions
Does the America the Beautiful pass cover parking at Horseshoe Bend?
No, the America the Beautiful National Parks pass is not accepted because the parking lot is operated by the City of Page, which requires a separate parking fee.
Can you hike down to the water from the Horseshoe Bend overlook?
No, there is no pedestrian access to the river from the overlook due to the sheer 1,000-foot cliffs. To reach the water, you must launch a boat or kayak from Lees Ferry or book a backhaul service.
How long is the walk from the parking lot to the Horseshoe Bend overlook?
The round-trip walk is approximately 1.5 miles on a wide, paved, and hard-packed path. It typically takes visitors 30 to 45 minutes of total walking time.