How to visit Horseshoe Bend near Page, Arizona

Horseshoe Bend is a large bend in the Colorado river near Page, AZ. It is part of the Grand Canyon, though not technically part of Grand Canyon National Park. Glen Canyon National Recreation Area gets to claim Horseshoe Bend.

Popularity 

Horseshoe Bend exploded in popularity thanks to social media. What most social media posts don’t show you are the many people fighting for a spot for that perfect photo!

Getting there 

It’s a 10-minute drive from Page and a 2-hour drive from the South or North Rims of the Grand Canyon.

Parking

Due to its increasing popularity, a parking lot was constructed. They charge a small fee to help pay for the parking lot.

There is no fee to enter Horseshoe Bend, and having a national park pass will not cover your parking fee. 

Hiking to horseshoe bend 

The short hike to get to Horseshoe Bend is .75 miles, making it 1.5 miles out and back. The path is mostly flat and graded, making it very accessible. 

Overlook 

Once you arrive at the overlook, you’ll be looking down on the Colorado River.

Some sections are developed, with safety railings and cement pads for standing and viewing. 

But most of the rim of the canyon is exposed, and you can climb around to whichever part of the ledge you desire. 

Safety

Some people get dangerously close to the sheer ledges. Multiple people have fallen from the 1,000 foot ledge and perished. There isn’t a ranger on site to warn you – your safety is your responsibility. 

When to visit 

You can visit anytime, as Horseshoe Bend is open year-round. The weather in Page is stifling hot in the summer and cold but less crowded in the winter. 

Sunset is a particularly popular time to visit. I only visited at Sunset, but since the canyon is deep and the sun sets in front of you, you don’t see light splashing off the red rock walls. Even a sunrise wouldn’t bring out the beauty of the canyon (I don’t think) because it can’t shine into the canyon until mid day. Throughout the morning the rays would rise on the canyon wall opposite the river, so I’m guessing morning to afternoon would be the best time of day. 

Rafting through Horseshoe Bend 

It’s also possible to raft through Horseshoe Bend! Wilderness River Adventures offers half-day tours starting at the Glen Canyon Dam near Page and ending at Lees Ferry, where they will shuttle you back to your vehicle.

Tours 

You do not need a tour to visit Horseshoe Bend – it’s a quick and easy visit for anyone to park and walk to the viewpoint. 

There are tours that will take you to Horseshoe Bend and other places nearby. One I’m familiar with is the Antelope Secret Canyon tour. 

Additional Resources

• Grand Canyon Itinerary
• Grand Canyon Trip Planner