Horseshoe Bend, Arizona: A Must-See Stop
Bring your camera to this popular northern Arizona overlook of the Colorado River, which attracts 2 million+ visitors each year.
Horseshoe Bend is one of Arizona’s most popular natural landmarks, featuring a 270-degree curve in the Colorado River that wraps around a massive sandstone cliff, seen from an overlook 1,000 feet above.
People come to marvel at its unique horseshoe shape, take photos, and enjoy a short but scenic hike to the viewpoint. Most visitors spend an hour or two here, making it a perfect addition to a day of exploring the area.
Where is Horseshoe Bend?
Horseshoe Bend is located in northern Arizona, near the town of Page, within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, and just 5 miles from Lake Powell.
The overlook is a convenient stop for those exploring the American Southwest from major cities like Phoenix, Las Vegas, and Flagstaff.
Is Horseshoe Bend Part of the Grand Canyon?
Horseshoe Bend is part of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, not the Grand Canyon itself. While they are similar in geology, they are two distinct areas.
Horseshoe Bend is about 140 miles (2.5-hour drive) from the Grand Canyon’s South Rim and 5 miles from Lake Powell. It’s a good stop for travelers exploring northern Arizona and southern Utah.
How to Get to Horseshoe Bend
Driving to Horseshoe Bend is straightforward, with easy access from several Southwest cities.
Drive Times From Nearby Cities
Phoenix, Arizona: 275 miles, 4.5 hours
Las Vegas, Nevada: 276 miles, 4.5 hours
Page, Arizona: 5 miles, 10 minutes
Flagstaff, Arizona: 130 miles, 2 hours
Parking is $10 per passenger vehicle (car, truck, SUV, RV, and motorhome). From the parking lot, the hike has a slight incline to the viewpoint. The trail is packed dirt and well-marked but offers little shade, so bring water and sun protection.
Along the trail, there are two shade structures for rest and respite from the heat.
Best Time to Visit Horseshoe Bend
Springtime from March–May and fall from September–November are the best seasons to visit Horseshoe Bend when temperatures are generally moderate.
Arrive at sunrise to avoid bigger crowds, but expect to see large groups no matter what time you visit.
Summer months can be extremely hot, with daytime temps often exceeding 100°F, making early mornings or evenings the best times to visit.
Winter has stunning light with fewer visitors, but the trail can be icy. Always check road and weather conditions before traveling.
The Arizona Department of Transportation provides up-to-date road information.
Attractions Near Horseshoe Bend
Antelope Canyon
Just a short drive from Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon’s sandstone slot canyons are a must-see for their wave-like formations and ethereal lighting.
You must book a tour to see the Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon, and they’re just one of several fun things to do in Page, Arizona.
Glen Canyon Dam
Take a guided Glen Canyon Dam tour to go behind the scenes of this engineering marvel and learn about its role in creating Lake Powell.
Lake Powell
Go boating, kayaking, or fishing on Lake Powell and enjoy this stunning reservoir.
Visiting Horseshoe Bend as Part of a Longer Road Trip
Horseshoe Bend is a convenient stop on road trips throughout the American Southwest. Consider adding it to itineraries that include:
The Grand Canyon: Horseshoe Bend is an easy detour when traveling between the Grand Canyon’s South Rim and Monument Valley.
Monument Valley: 120 miles away, about a 2-hour drive.
Zion National Park: 110 miles away, about a 2-hour drive.
Campgrounds Near Horseshoe Bend
Whether you’re looking for primitive camping or full-service RV sites, there are several camping options close to Horseshoe Bend.
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area: Several first-come, first-served primitive campgrounds with no amenities, with the exception of Lees Ferry Campground which has a dump station.
Wahweap RV & Campground: Located .25 miles from Lake Powell with full-service resort amenities.
Roam America Horseshoe Bend: A wonderful little campground near Page, AZ with great views of the surrounding landscape, along with a pool, modern bathrooms, showers, and laundry facilities.
BLM Camping: Visitors can camp anywhere on the shorelines of Lake Powell, except in developed marinas.
See the Page, Arizona website for detailed information about camping near Lake Powell.
See the American Southwest in a Blacksford RV
Make your Horseshoe Bend adventure one to remember in an RV rental from Blacksford. You’ll have all the amenities you’ll need for a comfortable vacation, plus 24/7 trip support for a stress-free journey.
Rent a new Winnebago or Thor RV in Phoenix or Las Vegas, and with unlimited mileage, you have the freedom to explore the Southwest and beyond!