Self-guided · 0.6 miles · $10 parking
Hike Horseshoe Bend on Your Own
No guide required. No reservation needed. Just park, walk 0.6 miles, and stand at the edge of one of the most iconic views in North America.
A paved path to an extraordinary view
What was once a grueling half-mile slog through deep sand is now a well-maintained, fully paved trail. Since June 2019, the trail from the parking lot to the Horseshoe Bend overlook has been ADA compliant — accessible with assistance for wheelchairs and strollers.
The trail is completely exposed to the sun. There are a couple of small shaded rest spots, but plan for full desert conditions: sunscreen, hat, and water are non-negotiable in any season.
At the rim, you'll find a fenced viewing platform at the end of the trail, plus additional vantage points along the unfenced edge. The Colorado River is approximately 1,000 feet below. There are no guardrails outside of the small platform. Stay back from the edge and supervise children at all times.
Getting to the overlook
The 0.6-mile trail from the parking lot is well-maintained, partially paved, and achievable for most visitors.
Park & pay
Pull into the City of Page lot off US-89. Pay the $10 vehicle fee at the booth — cash or card accepted. No roadside parking.
Hit the trail
Follow the paved path from the trailhead. It transitions to packed sand. The surface is accessible for strollers and wheelchairs with assistance.
Reach the rim
After about 20–25 minutes, the canyon opens before you — a 1,000-foot drop to the Colorado River's emerald bend.
Stay safe
There are no guardrails at the overlook edge. Keep children close. The drop is sheer. Do not approach the edge for photos.
What to bring
Water Essential
Bring at least 1 liter per person. The parking lot sells bottled water for $1. In summer, bring more. No water fountains on the trail.
Sunscreen Essential
The trail is completely exposed. Even on a cloudy day, UV radiation at this elevation and latitude is significant. Reapply at the rim.
Closed-toe shoes Essential
Flip flops and sandals make for an uncomfortable hike on packed sand and hot rock. Sneakers or trail shoes are ideal.
Hat
No shade on the trail. A wide-brim hat protects from sun exposure during the full hike, not just at the rim.
Camera
Horseshoe Bend is extraordinarily photogenic. Phone cameras are perfectly capable. Wide-angle lenses capture more of the panorama.
Headlamp (sunrise/sunset)
If you visit at dawn or dusk, you'll be hiking in darkness. The trail has zero artificial lighting. A headlamp is essential.
Other ways to experience Horseshoe Bend
The paved trail has made the hike accessible for most visitors. But for those who cannot walk 1.2 miles round trip in desert conditions, alternatives exist.
✈️ Air tours (helicopter or fixed-wing)
Scenic flights from Page Municipal Airport offer the most dramatic overhead view of the bend. No hiking required. Depart and return in 25–45 minutes.
See air tour options →🛶 River tours
Float the Colorado River at the base of Horseshoe Bend. Accessible for those who can board a raft at the Lees Ferry launch. Calm water, ages 4+.
See river tours →Hike FAQs
Do I need a tour guide to visit Horseshoe Bend?
No. Horseshoe Bend is a self-guided hike — no guide, no permit, no reservation required. You simply park and walk the trail. Antelope Canyon, which is 10 minutes away, does require a guided tour, but Horseshoe Bend does not.
How long is the hike to Horseshoe Bend?
The trail from the parking lot to the overlook is 0.6 miles one way (1.2 miles round trip). At a moderate pace, that's 20–25 minutes each direction. Plan 1–2 hours total to allow time at the rim.
Is the trail paved and wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the trail has been fully paved since June 2019. It is ADA accessible and stroller-friendly, though the paved surface transitions to packed sand in places and some uphill sections may require assistance for wheelchairs.
Are there guardrails at the overlook?
No guardrails exist along most of the overlook rim. There is one fenced viewing platform at the end of the trail. The drop to the Colorado River is approximately 1,000 feet. Keep children close and stay back from the edge.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes. Dogs are welcome on the trail on a leash no longer than 6 feet. In summer, protect their paws from hot sand and rock. Bring water for them. Do not leave dogs in your car in the parking lot — Page Police will respond and you may be arrested for animal cruelty.
What should I bring?
Water (at least 1 liter per person; $1 bottled water available at the parking lot), sunscreen, a hat, closed-toe shoes, and layers if visiting in early morning or winter. The trail is completely exposed with no shade.
Is there shade on the trail?
Virtually none. There are a couple of small covered rest spots along the trail, but they are crowded in peak season. Assume full sun exposure for the entire hike.
Can I visit at night or for astrophotography?
The parking lot closes at sunset. Night visits are not officially permitted. The trail has no artificial lighting, and the rim edge is completely unfenced. Astrophotography can be done but requires a headlamp and extreme caution. Always check parking lot hours before planning a night visit.