Lake Powell to Vermilion Cliffs

Unless you are traveling from Phoenix, the area around Page, Arizona is about as far away as you can get from a major city in the Southwest. Fortunately what all the possibilities this small region offers is well worth the trip getting there.

Trip Map

Rafters Float through Marble Canyon - Arizona

Upper and Lower Antelope Canyons – located just east of Page on the Navajo Reservation,  these  narrow slot canyons are world famous for the magical interplay that occurs between sunlight and the sandstone that encompasses the visitor. Since access to both canyons is restricted, it is best to reserve a spot well in advance with a Navajo guiding service.

Lake Powell – with a shoreline spanning nearly 2,000 miles, and stretch across much of southeastern Utah,  Lake Powell offers endless possibilities for those who wish to hop into a motor boat, and find a remote stretch of wilderness to disappear into for a few days.

Wahweap Hoodoos – Located north of Big Water, this 9 mile hike offers a view of otherly world rock formations. Natural Born Hikers offers a nice photo gallery of the journey to the site.

Glen Canyon Dam – Located just north of Page Arizona, the dam presented an awesome man made wonder in the midst of the natural wonders that surround it. While much can be seen from the dam’s visitor center, I highly recommend the short drive south to the dam overlook just west of Page.

Paria Canyon/Buckskin Gulch – this slot canyon along with the  smaller canyons that join with it, offer one of the longest and deepest stretches of slot canyon country in the world. From end to end, a backpacking trip could easily span a week.  More >>>

Coyote Buttes (The Wave)  – Located near the entrance to Paria Canyon and Buckskin Gulch this world famous formation requires a high clearance vehicle and moderately difficult hike to get to, but it is well worth it. Access is also limited to 20 permits per day, only 10 of which can be reserved ahead of time.

Horseshoe Bend – Tucked away just south of Page, Horseshoe Bend is one of the most incredible gems of the southwest, especially given how little advertising it gets in comparison to other locations.

Marble Canyon – Considered the beginning of the Grand Canyon, Marble Canyon offers a beautiful example of what awaits those who follow the Colorado River downstream. The best vantage point for seeing the canyon along the road, is at the Navajo Bridge crossing.  The photo above illustrate what is seen from the foot bridge on the north side of the bridge.

Vermilion Cliffs – Located southwest of Page,  the cliffs form a massive escarpment that parallels Highway 89 west of Marble Canyon, and ties in with Paria Canyon to the north.

Lee’s Ferry – This is the site of a historic crossing point on the Colorado River, maintained by Mormon pioneers. A number of old buildings,  a working orchard, and a cemetery of homesteaders that lived here, still remain.  The park service also maintains a very nice campground.