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scenic locationPartially accessible (paved trail & ADA viewing platform)

Horseshoe Bend

Page, Arizona

A short, 0.75‑mile trail leads to a fenced overlook 1,000 ft above a dramatic 270° meander of the Colorado River.

Elevation: 4200
★ 4.8 / 5
Entrees Free (parking $10 per vehicle)

Trip Snapshot

Best Time to Visit
Sunrise or late afternoon, March–May & Sept–Oct
Open
Open now · 5:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Price Range
Free (parking $10 per vehicle)
Time Needed
1–2 hours for the walk and photo stop.
Parking
On‑site paid lot ($10 car, $5 motorcycle)
Ideal For
0.75‑mile (1.2 km) paved trail, two shaded rest areas, rail‑protected viewing platform, interpretive signage, restrooms & water refill station at trailhead, pet‑friendly (leash required)
Reviews from Google
4.8

(22,276 reviews)

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Why Visit Horseshoe Bend

A short, 0.75‑mile trail leads to a fenced overlook 1,000 ft above a dramatic 270° meander of the Colorado River.

Highlights

Iconic horseshoe‑shaped bend carved by the Colorado River
ADA‑compliant hardened trail with shade shelters and rail‑protected platform
World‑class sunrise & sunset photography only 10 minutes from Page

Description

Horseshoe Bend sits within Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, where the Colorado River has entrenched itself 1,000 ft (305 m) below the surrounding sandstone plateau. The overlook stands at roughly 4,200 ft elevation and provides a sweeping 270‑degree view of the emerald river against Navajo Sandstone walls. Once a little‑known roadside stop, social media exposure in the 2010s turned it into one of the most photographed spots in the American Southwest, now welcoming more than two million visitors each year. The City of Page manages the trailhead and parking, while the National Park Service oversees the river corridor.

History

c. 5 M ya
Uplift of the Colorado Plateau begins carving the entrenched meander.
1972
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is established, protecting Horseshoe Bend.
1990s
Photographers and guidebooks start featuring the overlook.
2018
Central guard‑rail and hardened trail completed to improve visitor safety.
2019
City of Page introduces paid parking and bans shoulder parking on US‑89.
2024
Parking fees surpass $20 million in revenue since 2019, funding further improvements.

Features

0.75‑mile (1.2 km) paved trail
Two shaded rest areas
Rail‑protected viewing platform
Interpretive signage
Restrooms & water refill station at trailhead
Pet‑friendly (leash required)
On‑site paid parking

Getting There

Car: 5 mi (8 km) south of Page on US‑89; signed turn‑off for Horseshoe Bend Overlook. Taxi/Rideshare: Page‑based services reach the trailhead in ~10 min. Tour Bus: Many Antelope Canyon and Grand Canyon day tours include a Horseshoe Bend stop. Air: Page Municipal Airport (PGA) is 7 mi away; scenic helicopter flights pass overhead but do not land.

Insider Tips

Local advice to help you make the most of your visit.

01Good to know

Arrive 30 minutes before sunrise or sunset for optimal light and easier parking.

02Be prepared

Bring a wide‑angle lens (16

24 mm) to capture the full bend from the platform.

03Local tip

Summer heat is extreme; hike early, wear sunscreen, and carry plenty of water.

Want the perfect day plan?Checkout our planning guides.

View Planning Guides

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the trail stroller‑ or wheelchair‑friendly?

Yes. The hardened path meets ADA standards, though the final slope is moderate; assistance may be helpful.

Can I visit after dark?

The overlook is on federal land and technically open 24 h, but the parking lot closes at sunset, so plan accordingly.

Are drones allowed?

Recreational drone use is prohibited within Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, including Horseshoe Bend.

Quick Information

Hours

Open5:30 AM – 7:30 PM
  • Monday5:30 AM – 7:30 PM
  • Tuesday5:30 AM – 7:30 PM
  • Wednesday5:30 AM – 7:30 PM
  • Thursday5:30 AM – 7:30 PM
  • Friday5:30 AM – 7:30 PM
  • Saturday5:30 AM – 7:30 PM
  • Sunday5:30 AM – 7:30 PM

Hours may change. Please call ahead to confirm before you visit.

Best Time to VisitSunrise or late afternoon, March–May & Sept–Oct

Recommended Duration1–2 hours for the walk and photo stop.

ParkingOn‑site paid lot ($10 car, $5 motorcycle)

Facilities0.75‑mile (1.2 km) paved trail, two shaded rest areas, rail‑protected viewing platform, interpretive signage, restrooms & water refill station at trailhead, pet‑friendly (leash required)

What to BringAt least one liter of water per person, sun protection, and sturdy footwear.

What to WearComfortable clothing suitable for hiking and sun protection.
Contact Information
You are herePage, Arizona

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