691 Scenic View Dr, PO Box 1507, Page, AZ 86040-1507
Phone: 520-608-6404 or 520-608-6204
Fax: 520-608-6204
Open All Year
Overview. Reddish, sculpted, sandstone formations contrast strikingly with the sleek blue waters of Lake Powell lapping at their feet. Named after Major John Wesley Powell, who first explored the Colorado River in 1869, this lake was formed when the Glen Canyon Dam was constructed in 1963. For eons the Colorado River and its tributaries carved breathtaking walls, cathedral-like recesses, and natural bridges out of soft layers of sandstone, creating wonders such as the Grand Canyon and its smaller sibling, Glen Canyon. With the development of the arid southwest, water became a primary concern for ranchers, farmers, and residents throughout the Colorado drainage basin. To harness the hydroelectric potential of the river without compromising the water needs of people further downstream, the 583-foot tall Glen Canyon Dam was poured. Deep blue waters backed up behind it, quickly creating a prime recreation spot for boaters, hikers, and anglers, all of whom enjoy their activities surrounded by splendid scenery.What to see and do. Lake Powell meanders for almost two hundred miles through serious canyon country. Along this stretch, you'll find five paved as well as numerous unpaved roads affording access to campsites and marinas. First-time visitors should stop at the Carl Hayden Visitor Center, located at the southwest end of the lake at the Glen Canyon Dam. Be sure to take a guided tour of the dam and look through several exhibits detailing the area's history and unique geology. Then pick up information about marina and camping facilities. Four full-service marinas and several campgrounds offer boat launches and boat rentals. The park service has licensed a concessionaire to provide guided scenic boat tours, marina services, rafting expeditions, food service, lodging and extensive camping facilities, including some RV hookups. Call 800-528-6154 for full information. The other visitor center is at the Bullfrog marina and campground. Both centers are open from 8 AM until 7 PM during the summer and Carl Hayden is open from 8 AM to 5 PM in winter. Ranger programs are offered in season at Wahweap and Bullfrog. Boating is the best way to get around in the area. Haul in your own or rent anything from a fully-equipped houseboat to a jet ski. Beneath the blazing sun of the Arizona desert, a swim in the cool blue waters is always refreshing. Move leisurely through the towering walls, stopping at beaches for a picnic or trailheads for a short hike. Don't miss the Rainbow Bridge National Monument. Located 50 miles northeast of the dam, the largest natural bridge in the world was almost inaccessible until the shore of newly-created Lake Powell crept almost to its base. While you're exploring the 96 canyons indenting the lake, fish for enormous striped bass, walleye, or lurking black crappie. In the Lees Ferry vicinity, trout have been known to hit. With the allure of azure water in the midst of arid desert, it's easy to forget that 90 percent of the park is backcountry. Hikers find challenging paths winding through the rugged country, especially in the Escalante River canyon, whose terrain resembles Glen Canyon before the dam submerged its bottomlands. Keep an eye trained on the cliffs for glimpses of owls or eagles; at your feet, you may notice the tracks of shy foxes. Some paths originate outside the recreation area proper. Check with a ranger for trail maps, route recommendations, and flash flood warnings. If you'd rather drive than walk, several unpaved jeep roads snake into little-seen areas such as the 19th-century Hole-in-the-Rock wagon train path. Driving off-road is forbidden in order to preserve fragile vegetation. Pets: Leashed pets are permitted. Fees: A nominal admission fee is charged that is good for up to seven days. Separate fees are charged for boating and camping.
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Archeological Sites |
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Beach |
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Boat Launching |
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Fishing |
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Food Service |
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Geological Sites |
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Guided Tours |
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Hiking/Nature Trails |
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Motor Boating |
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Museum/Exhibits |
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Non-motor Boating |
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Picnic Sites |
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Programs/Talks |
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Self-guided Tours |
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Swimming |
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Visitor Center |
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Water Skiing |
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