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PARKPage, AZ

The Chains

4.6 (624 Google reviews)

A short slickrock scramble delivers you to deep, emerald‑green water below Glen Canyon Dam—perfect for swimming, cliff jumping, fishing, and paddle sports, all just five minutes from downtown Page.

Limited Access

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Trip Snapshot

Best Time to Visit
Apr–Oct; early morning or late afternoon for cooler temps
Open
Open now · 6:30 AM – 8:00 PM
Price Range
$ (free day‑use)
Time Needed
Half-day
Parking
Small paved lot at the end of Chains Road, free
Ideal For
Vault toilets (year‑round), trash dumpsters
Reviews from Google
4.6

(624 reviews)

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Why Visit The Chains

A short slickrock scramble delivers you to deep, emerald‑green water below Glen Canyon Dam—perfect for swimming, cliff jumping, fishing, and paddle sports, all just five minutes from downtown Page.

Highlights

Cliff‑ringed coves with crystal‑clear Lake Powell water
Panoramic views of Glen Canyon Dam and sandstone walls
Easy, free shoreline access for swimming, fishing, and launching kayaks

Description

The Chains is a beloved local day‑use spot on the south shore of Lake Powell, inside Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. A short drive down Chains Road ends at a parking area where visitors descend smooth Navajo sandstone to the water’s edge. With no designated trail, you’re free to explore sculpted rock ledges, cast a fishing line, or plunge into the cool, 400‑foot‑deep lake. There are no lifeguards, shade, or concessions, so come prepared with water, sun protection, and sturdy footwear. Vault toilets and trash receptacles are provided, but everything else is strictly BYO—help keep the shoreline pristine by packing out what you pack in.

History

1956 – Construction of Glen Canyon Dam begins.
1966 – Dam completed; Lake Powell starts filling, creating new shoreline.
1972 – Glen Canyon National Recreation Area established, protecting The Chains.
1990s – Area gains popularity with locals for cliff jumping and fishing.
2000 – NPS installs vault toilets at the parking lot.
2010 – Chains Road paved, improving vehicle access.
2020 – Safety signage added warning of cold water and steep drops.

Features

Day‑use parking lot
Vault toilets (year‑round)
Trash dumpsters
Slickrock shoreline access
Informal kayak/SUP launch
Pet‑friendly (leash required)
Scenic photo spots of Glen Canyon Dam
Fishing access (license required)

Getting There

Car: From downtown Page, drive US‑89 north 1 mi, turn right on Chains Rd; 0.7 mi to parking. Taxi/Rideshare: 5‑min ride from Page hotels. Tour Bus: Not serviced; small RVs okay but no large coaches. Air: Page Municipal Airport (PGA) is 3 mi south; rental cars available.

Insider Tips

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

01Good to know

Wear grippy shoes; slickrock can be steep and hot.

02Be prepared

Bring at least 1 gal of water per person

no potable water onsite.

03Local tip

Life jackets strongly advised; lake is deep and cold year‑round.

04Save time

Check water levels/currents before jumping; no official platforms.

05Stay connected

Arrive before 10 AM on summer weekends to secure parking.

06Good to know

Pets must stay leashed and have paw protection on hot rock.

07Be prepared

Pack out all trash; dumpsters fill quickly.

08Local tip

Download offline maps

cell service is spotty.

Want the perfect day plan?Checkout our planning guides.

View Planning Guides

Photography Opportunities

  • Scenic photo spots of Glen Canyon Dam

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an entrance fee?

The Chains itself is free, but Glen Canyon NRA passes are required and checked randomly.

Are restrooms available?

Yes—vault toilets at the parking lot.

Can kids swim here safely?

Yes, with close supervision; water is deep and cliffs are high.

Are dogs allowed?

Leashed pets are welcome; bring water and waste bags.

Is cliff jumping legal?

It’s not prohibited, but you jump at your own risk—check depth first.

What’s the water temperature?

Typically 50–70 °F (10–21 °C) depending on season.

Do I need a life jacket?

Not mandatory, but highly recommended for swimmers and paddlers.

Can I camp overnight?

No—The Chains is day‑use only. Nearby campgrounds are at Wahweap.

Is fishing allowed?

Yes, with a valid Arizona fishing license (Utah stamp if crossing state line).

Are drones permitted?

Drones are prohibited in Glen Canyon NRA without a special permit.

Quick Information

Hours

Open6:30 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Monday6:30 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Tuesday6:30 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Wednesday6:30 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Thursday6:30 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Friday6:30 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Saturday6:30 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Sunday6:30 AM – 8:00 PM

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

Best Time to VisitApr–Oct; early morning or late afternoon for cooler temps

Recommended DurationHalf-day

ParkingSmall paved lot at the end of Chains Road, free

FacilitiesVault toilets (year‑round), trash dumpsters

What to BringWater, sun protection, sturdy footwear

What to WearGrippy shoes
Contact Information
Unnamed Rd, Page, AZ 86040
You are hereGlen Canyon National Recreation Area, Page, AZ

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