LOOKING FOR THE BEST WHAT TO DO IN PAGE, ARIZONA IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS?

For a town of 2,000 people, Page, Arizona, exceeded my wildest expectations with its abundance of adventurous activities and sheer beauty.

I had such a great time in this small town in Northern Arizona and its surrounding area that I couldn’t resist going back for a second time in one year. Whenever I pass through this part of North America, you can be sure I’ll make another stop.

Just like nearby Kanab or Moab, the top attractions in Page are all about the great outdoors. So, here are 22 amazing things to do in Page, AZ.

Best Things to Do in Page AZ

Weather Tip! In the summer months, temperatures reach average highs of nearly 100 degrees. In slot canyons, any amount of rain can bring unexpected flash floods.

1. Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend is one of Arizona’s most known tourist attractions. The horseshoe-shaped bend was formed by the Colorado River and offers incredible views from hundreds of feet above.

Horseshoe Bend is so grand and vast, making it diffichorult to capture its entirety in a photo. To do so, you’ll need to use 0.5 zoom on your iPhone or have an ultrawide camera lens. For the best experience, I recommend visiting Horseshoe Bend from late morning to midday when the canyon is illuminated with minimal shadows.

The trail from the parking lot to the viewing platform is a quick and easy 0.7 mile round-trip hike that can be completed in approximately 15 minutes.

Entrance Fee to Horseshoe Bend

• $5 for motorcycles
• $10 per passenger vehicle

2. Kayak Horseshoe Bend from Below

Ever since I got my OruKayak, the foldable companion for kayaking, I’ve been eagerly seeking opportunities to paddle rivers across the United States. Naturally, I couldn’t resist the chance to kayak the Colorado River and see Horseshoe Bend from a different perspective.

If you’re interested in some Horseshoe Bend kayaking, it’s important to note that you cannot access the river for free as there are no launch points south of Glen Canyon Dam.

To kayak this section of the Colorado River, you’ll need to take a scenic one-hour drive from Page to Lee’s Ferry in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and arrange for backhauling services.

Along the paddle, you can spot to see petroglyphs, relax on the beach, swim in the waters, and go on multiple secret slot canyon hikes.

Tip! Reserve ahead of time in the summer, as spots may be sold out.

Lee’s Ferry Boat Launch GPS Location: (36.865906, -111.586618)

Three Horseshoe Bend Backhaul Services

• Kayak the Colorado – https://www.kayakthecolorado.com/
• Kelly Outfitters at Less Ferry – Phone: 602-510-5511 There are no fixed departure times for this, but it requires a group of people to go. If you are alone, the cost will be $150 for a single person.
• Kayak Horseshoe Bend – Phone: 928-355-2261. Backhaul services will be suspended during duck hunting season, which typically begins in late October.

Six Sections of Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon may very well be one of the best canyon destinations in western US. This canyon is separated into six parts:

• Upper Antelope Canyon (The Crack)
• Lower Antelope Canyon (The Corkscrew)
• Canyon X
• Owl Canyon
• Mountain Sheep Canyon
• Rattle Snake Canyon

Being on Navajo land, all of Antelope Canyon requires a guided tour to enter. Tours may begin in Page or nearby cities like Las Vegas or Sedona.

Book early for Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon or they may be booked out. Sign up for a combo tour to see both sections in one day.

Time Zone Tip! There are two time zones in Arizona. Navajo Land follows Daylight Savings, and AZ time doesn’t. It’s better to be an hour early than an hour late.

3. Upper Antelope Canyon

Thanks to that million-dollar Nat Geo Window screensaver shot, Antelope Canyon has been on my bucket list for years. “How can those colors exist in real life?” I asked myself. It must be photoshopped; I won’t believe it until I see it.

Upper Antelope Canyon is one of the most popular and easy-to-access sections of Antelope Canyon. It’s also known as The Crack due to its extremely narrow walls. Only 400 meters one way; it is not a long or strenuous hike by any means.

If you get the opportunity, get tickets for Upper Antelope Canyon between April and August. The lighting is better overall, and there’s a light beam at noontime.

Tip! Since Upper Antelope Canyon is the most visited section of the whole canyon system, you’ll need to book your tour much in advance to avoid disappointment from tours being sold out.

4. Lower Antelope Canyon

Located a few miles from Upper Antelope, Lower Antelope is the other most known canyon portion. It’s known as the Corkscrew due to its winding alcoves that narrow and expand throughout your journey.

Although this hike is only 1.1 miles round trip, you’ll need to descend and ascend steep stairs along the way.

Lower Antelope Canyon is a much better year-round due to the canyon’s wider walls, which let in more sunlight. It is also cheaper and slightly less crowded than Upper Antelope Canyon.

5. Canyon X

Canyon X is the lesser-known cousin of Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon. It’s become increasingly popular, touting itself as a much cheaper alternative to its siblings.

No less beautiful, this section features unique wave-shaped rock formations and narrow alcoves that form an iconic “X” shape. Canyon X blends features from both the Upper and Lower canyons, like the Upper’s pillars of light and the Lower’s steepness.

As one of Antelope Canyon’s quietest slot canyons, you won’t have to fight for your ticket, and there will be fewer crowds with you on the tour.

6. Owl Canyon

With a wide topside opening, Owl Canyon is more of a hike than a shimmy-through. While this extra exposure to the sun makes the colors less beautiful as a slot canyon, it’s the perfect destination for those who want a more rugged experience and a little taste of wildlife.

The canyon is named for the family of great horned owls that reside here. Bring your zoom lens for photographers wishing to capture these feathered residents in action!

7. Mountain Sheep Canyon

Mountain Sheep Canyon is a slightly more strenuous hike off the beaten path. After being picked up by a 4×4, you’ll wind through towering red rock cliffs and winding sandstone canyons.

Watch for native animals and plants such as yucca, cactus, and sagebrush.

This section of Antelope Canyon is less known and provides a much more private experience than other slot tours in the area.

8. Rattle Snake Canyon

Rattlesnake Canyon is usually an add-on for an Antelope Canyon photography tour, as only one operator runs a tour through this portion of the canyon.

Sightseers will experience phenomenal curves created by millions of years of water and wind erosion and plenty of opportunities for great abstract photography.

9. Helicopter Ride over Horseshoe Bend

For a truly unique experience, hop aboard a helicopter to soar over the picturesque canyons and landscapes of Northern Arizona.

A helicopter flight will showcase superb aerial views of Lake Powell, Glen Canyon Dam, and Horseshoe Bend from the comfort of a state-of-the-art chopper.

On this particular helicopter tour, you’ll even land atop Tower Butte, a giant rock formation, for 15-20 minutes while getting a 360-degree view of everywhere.

You’ll have headset communication with running commentary the whole time so you know what you’re flying over.

10. Boat or Kayak on Lake Powell

With so many things to do in Lake Powell, this body of water is the ultimate playground for water sports enthusiasts. Whether you rent a kayak or take one of the many boat tours like this one that depart from Wahweap Marina, you’ll glide over shimmering calm waters and pass Lake Powell’s impressive canyon walls.

You can rent boats and kayaks at various marinas and beaches around the lake or bring your own.

For those looking for more Lakes Powell adventures, there are so many hidden coves, hikes, and secret slot canyons to boat to.

Note! Day passes cost 30$, but save road trip money by showing your interagency national park passes.

11. Boat/Kayak to Lower Antelope Canyon – the Free “Secret” Section

You can experience a free section of Antelope Canyon by kayaking in the pristine waters of Lake Powell. Once you park your boat, the hike through the slot canyon seems to stretch endlessly into the distance.

In November, I had the entire lower section of Antelope Canyon practically to myself. It took approximately 4.5 hours to kayak there, hike, and return. Guided tours take about 5 hours.

My Kayaking Schedule

• 12:00 pm: Left from Antelope Canyon Boat Launch
• 1:10 pm: Continuously paddled until the kayak dock
• 2:30 pm: I reached the farthest point I intended to hike, but you can still keep going.
• 3:30 pm: Hiked back at the dock
• 4:30 pm: Paddled back to Antelope Point Boat Launch

How to Get to the Free Section of Antelope Canyon

The area has two boat launches, the closest being Antelope Point Launch. In winter, if water levels drop, start from Wahweap Marina further west.

Using a kayak or SUP, you can easily descend the steep sand bar to reach the water. Follow the waterway on the left until you come across a sign that reads “Antelope Canyon wakeless area.”

Turn in to see the canyon narrowing and a beach come into view. The water at the end becomes calm, glassy, and very smelly. Dock your boat and start your hike from the sandy shore.

Kayaking to the lower section of Antelope Canyon is relatively easy, although it still takes at least an hour or more to reach the beach dock. The boat dock can be crowded at certain times of the year.

Once you start your hike, the initial mile may seem ordinary, just walking along the canyon. However, prepare to be amazed as the canyon suddenly tightens, and the sunlight beautifully illuminates the vibrant orange shades of the red rock formations.

12. Waterholes Canyon

Another canyon has a mandatory tour guide policy, Waterholes Canyon gets the number of visitors in a year that Antelope Canyon gets in a day.

Not as dramatic as Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon, it is understandable why Waterholes Canyon isn’t as well-known.

Waterholes Canyon is worth considering if you prefer fewer crowds and the luxury of taking your time.

13. Lake Powell Balloon Regatta

If you pass through on the first weekend of November, the Lake Powell Balloon Regatta will be in full flight. Imagine more than 100 colorful balloons rising and floating against the backdrop of Lake Powell’s blue waters and red canyons. It is a spectacular sight to see!

You can join the fun as a spectator or participate with your own balloon. You can even take a tethered ride for a bird’s-eye view of the lake and its canyons.

The event takes place over two days, with evening balloon glows where everyone can come together to watch the balloons light up the night sky.

Related Post: If you’re driving through the area, come early to see the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, the largest one of its kind happening in October annually.

14. Wahweap Overlook Point

If you’re passing by, Wahweap Point is just one minute off the road and has red rock vistas of Lake Powell and the marina.

But if you’ve already been to Alstrom Point, you might be let down. Otherwise, if you’re not into hiking or off-roading, Wahweap Point is the easiest way to enjoy the scenic views of Lake Powell.

GPS Location: (36.968980, -111.499257)

15. Glen Canyon Dam Overlook

The Glen Canyon Dam Overlook is located just outside of Page, and it pretty great views of Lake Powell and the Colorado River.

It’s easy to access from the road, and you can get great dam views when crossing the Glen Canyon Bridge.

GPS Location: (36.924118, -111.478336)

16. Alstrom Point (My Top 10 Landscapes in the World!)

Alstrom Point is one of the best places to marvel at the panoramic views of Lake Powell.

But reaching this spot requires overcoming a challenge. You’ll need to navigate a 25-mile off-road route starting from the small town of Big Water, just across the Utah border. It takes approximately 1.5 hours to reach the incredible overlook.

After rainfall, the dirt road can become difficult to drive on, but typically most vehicles can handle the first 15 miles. As you approach the canyon’s edge, the Martial-like muddy landscape suddenly transforms into a pleasant surprise, revealing your first glimpse of the stunning Lake Powell.

All the land here is designated as BLM land, meaning you can camp anywhere. Just make sure to pack everything out.

Aside from the effort to get to Alstrom Point, I recommend staying overnight since the canyon looks very different depending on the time of day.

Alstrom Point Road Conditions

My Ford E-350 van made it to the trail’s end with some difficulty, but I may have been the only non-4×4 or truck in the vicinity. Until the last 2 miles, it was doable for most SUVs.

Attempt the final 2 miles of the drive during daylight hours, as there are no guardrails along the canyons, and the road occasionally disappears.

It took me 20 minutes to cover that distance, and I had to get out of my vehicle to rearrange some rocks. Alternatively, you can hike the last 2 miles, which may be more accessible.

GPS Location: (37.058900, -111.364700)

17. Labyrinth Canyon

Labyrinth Canyon is still on my list of things to do for my next trip to Lake Powell. It’s best to visit during the summer due to the cold weather for camping. You can find Labyrinth Canyon near Padre Bath, around mile 16.

Not for the faint of heart, Labyrinth Canyon is a 12-mile one-way kayak trip to a slot canyon that supposedly rivals Antelope Canyon. It’s free, and thanks to the effort put in to reach it, you’ll enjoy minimal crowds.

You can complete this journey in a day with intense paddling, but many choose to turn it into an overnight camping adventure. Along the shores of Lake Powell, there are numerous public beach camping spots.

To make it less tiring, you can rent a motorized boat from Antelope Point Marina or Waheap Bay Marina. Afterward, you can kayak or use a stand-up paddleboard to reach the slot canyon.

Entrance to Labyrinth Canyon: (37.005750, -111.307000)

18. Rainbow Bridge National Monument

One of the main attractions in Lake Powell is Rainbow Bridge National Monument, the world’s largest natural bridge.

Rainbow Bridge, located in an extremely remote area, can only be reached by boat on Lake Powell or by traversing a 14+ mile trail from the Navajo Nation.

19. Reflections Canyon

Reflections Canyon is another destination within the confines of Lake Powell that you will want to add to your southwest road trip itinerary.

Even though it is not physically far from Page, access to the trailhead is either a far drive and strenuous hike or only accessible by boat over Lake Powell.

Whichever way you choose, you will be rewarded with incredible views of the canyon walls reflecting off the lake as it winds through them.

Other Popular Day Trip Things to Do Near Page, AZ

20. Buckskin Gulch Slot Canyon

Located approximately an hour’s drive from the Page area, within the vast Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, lies Buckskin Gulch. This extraordinary slot canyon is not only the longest and deepest in the southwest United States and possibly the world.

Buckskin Gulch winds its way for 16 miles, meandering through valleys and towering sandstone walls.

To access Buckskin Gulch, take the unpaved House Rock Valley Road. Keep in mind that permits are required, even though it falls under the jurisdiction of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).

You can explore Buckskin Gulch in several ways: starting from Buckskin Trailhead, Middle Trailhead, or by entering through Wire Pass.

Tip! Because of its secluded location, there is no cellular service available throughout the entire area. So join a tour from Kanab if you’re worried about losing your way.

21. Grand Canyon National Park

The Grand Canyon, one of the seven natural wonders of the world, is a must-visit destination. It’s the epitome of US National Parks, so make sure it’s on your southern Arizona road trip itinerary if it isn’t already!

While many know that parts of The Grand Canyon can be over a mile deep, its immense length is often overlooked. Divided into the North Rim and South Rim, the South Rim attracts more visitors.

22. Jeep Around Monument Valley

Monument Valley, located on the Arizona-Utah border, is an iconic desert landscape and often the first thing that comes to mind when someone mentions the American Southwest. It’s even been used as a backdrop in countless movies and video games!

About two hours from the city of Page, much of the park is on Navajo Lands, so you will have to hire a local Navajo guide and jeep to get into the park itself.

Related Post: Heading to Sedona after? Check out these best Sedona jeep tours!

Sleep Inn & Suites Page at Lake Powell

 RATING: 8.5 out of 10 Stars (1400+ reviews) | $$

A mid-range option is booking a stay at Sleep Inn and Suites Page at Lake Powell. Rooms here come equipped with all modern amenities for a good night’s sleep. The hotel has an indoor pool, and guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast every morning.

Super 8 by Wyndham Page/Lake Powell

 RATING: 8.1 out of 10 Stars (900+ reviews) | $

Jump in for a refreshing dip in this Super 8’s outdoor pool after a day of exploration. Located just off the freeway minutes away from the downtown area of Page, you can easily access local restaurants and shops. The rooms are basic but have all the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay.