Horseshoe Bend FAQ

The hike itself is free — no entrance fee. You pay $10 per vehicle to park in the City of Page parking lot. There's no charge beyond the parking fee.

No. Horseshoe Bend is a self-guided hike. You can show up any day during lot hours (sunrise to sunset) without any reservation. Antelope Canyon, which is nearby, does require a guided tour with advance reservations.

No. Horseshoe Bend is in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, managed by the NPS. The trailhead is on City of Page land. It is approximately 5 miles south of Page, AZ on US-89.

Yes. The parking lot and trail are open every day of the year, sunrise to sunset, including holidays.

Yes, near the parking lot. There are no restrooms on the trail. The lot also sells $1 bottled water.

$10 per car, RV, or motorhome. $5 for motorcycles. Commercial vehicles range from $35 to $140 depending on passenger capacity. Fees are per vehicle, not per person.

No. The fee is collected by the City of Page, not the NPS. Federal park passes do not apply.

Yes, cash and credit/debit are accepted on most days. During major US holidays (Memorial Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, etc.), the booth may accept cash only.

There is no practical free parking alternative within walking distance. The highway shoulder is strictly prohibited — violators are ticketed and towed.

You will be turned away and asked to return later. The lot fills most often between 9 AM and 2 PM in peak season (May–September). Arriving at sunrise avoids the worst congestion.

0.6 miles one way from the parking lot to the overlook (1.2 miles round trip). Plan 1–2 hours total including time at the rim.

Easy to moderate. The trail is fully paved since 2019. It is mostly flat with a gentle incline near the parking lot. The terrain becomes packed sand and rock closer to the rim.

Yes. The paved trail is ADA accessible and stroller-friendly, though some sections may require assistance for wheelchairs.

No guardrails exist along most of the rim. There is one fenced viewing platform at the end of the trail. The drop is approximately 1,000 feet. Stay well back from the edge and supervise children at all times.

Virtually none. The trail is completely exposed. Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat regardless of the season.

There is no single best time — the view is impressive in all conditions. For photography, mid-morning through early afternoon delivers clean, even light on the river. Late afternoon offers dramatic shadows and the sunset "starburst" effect. See our best time guide for detailed guidance.

Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are ideal: mild temperatures and manageable crowds. Summer is extremely hot and crowded. Winter is cold but uncrowded.

No. The river is regulated by the Glen Canyon Dam 15 miles upstream, which maintains a minimum flow year-round for hydroelectric power.

Yes. Dogs are welcome on the trail on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Bring water for them. Protect paws from hot sand and rock in summer. Do not leave pets in your car at the parking lot.

No. Drone use is not permitted at Horseshoe Bend.

No. Camping is not allowed at the overlook or parking lot. The lot closes at sunset.

Commercial photography and organized events (weddings, engagements) require a Special Use Permit from the NPS Glen Canyon NRA. Personal photography needs no permit.

Approximately 4.5–5 hours by car, about 280 miles. Many visitors do it as a day trip from Las Vegas; staying overnight in Page is recommended if combining with Antelope Canyon.

About 4–7 miles depending on which branch of Antelope Canyon you tour — approximately 10–15 minutes by car. Both are easily done in one day.

Not recommended. US-89 and surrounding highways have no ambient lighting. Deer, elk, feral horses, and free-range cattle frequently cross the road after dark. Plan your drive to arrive and depart before sunset.