Horseshoe Bend overlook — 270° Colorado River meander

Page, AZ · Glen Canyon NRA

Horseshoe
Bend

A 270° curve of the Colorado River, carved 1,000 feet below the Arizona desert. One of the most photographed views in North America.

Hike on your own Book a tour
$10
Per vehicle · parking
0.6 mi
Each way to the rim
6a–6p
Lot open · seasonal
10 min
South of Page on US-89
The overlook

The Colorado River's most iconic bend

Over millions of years, the Colorado River cut nearly 1,000 feet into the Navajo sandstone of the Colorado Plateau, carving a horseshoe-shaped curve so dramatic it defies belief. Today, a 0.6-mile paved trail leads from the parking lot to the rim — one of the most awe-inspiring views in the American West.

Located 5 miles south of Page, AZ, Horseshoe Bend sits within Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. The overlook is self-guided, no permit required. The parking lot charges $10 per vehicle, operated by the City of Page.

Colorado River from the overlook — emerald green water in sandstone canyon
Guided experiences

See the bend on your terms

Can't make the hike? Want a different perspective? Guided tours from Page give you more of the Grand Circle in less time.

Scenic Flights Helicopter flying over Horseshoe Bend and the Colorado River from $189

Air & Helicopter Tours

See the bend, Lake Powell and Antelope Canyon from above on a small-group scenic flight.

25–45 min Year-round All ages
View tours
Combo Light beams streaming through Antelope Canyon slot canyon from $129

Antelope Canyon Combo

Pair Horseshoe Bend with a guided walk through Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon's glowing slots.

3–4 hrs Guided Permit incl.
View tours
On the water Kayaks on the emerald Colorado River below Horseshoe Bend cliffs from $96

River & Kayak Tours

Paddle the calm emerald water below the cliffs, or float the Colorado from Glen Canyon Dam.

Half day Gear incl. Beginner
View tours
The trail

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.

No guardrails. The overlook rim has no fencing. Stay back from the edge and supervise children at all times.
No shade on trail. Bring at least one liter of water per person. Wear a hat and sunscreen. Avoid the midday hours in summer.
Location & conditions

Page, AZ live conditions

The desert environment changes fast. Check the current temperature and forecast before you leave — and arrive early to beat the heat.

Get directions →
Interactive map — Horseshoe Bend Parking, US-89, Page AZ
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Page, AZ · Horseshoe Bend
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Local time · MST (no DST)
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Best time to visit Arrive before 9 AM or after 5 PM. Sunrise and sunset deliver the best light on the Colorado River.

Ready to go?

Make it a trip to remember

Pair Horseshoe Bend with Antelope Canyon, a river float, and two days in Page for the full Grand Circle experience.