There are many ways to experience Page: the horseshoe-shaped bend in the river at Horseshoe Bend, loop trails with views of the landscape, and the history and geology of Lake Powell. When planning, it helps to keep these differences in mind: some destinations are known for a particular view, while others offer longer trails or activities on the water.
Canyon Landscapes and Trails
At Horseshoe Bend, the Colorado River has carved a horseshoe-shaped bend in the canyon, approximately 1,000 feet deep and spanning 270 degrees. The 270 degrees equal three-quarters of a full circle; together with the stated depth, they describe the canyon’s shape and scale. The parking lot at the starting point of the Horseshoe Bend hiking trail is in the town of Page.
Two loop trails offer a clear comparison in terms of length and character. The Red Mesa Rim Trail is 10.8 miles long and winds through the landscape, with sections ranging from easy to challenging. The Rim View Trail, also called the Page Loop, runs for 10.3 miles around Manson Mesa and offers views of Lake Powell and the Kaiparowits Plateau. The stated lengths differ by only half a mile; the Red Mesa Rim Trail also has a specified range of difficulty, while the Rim View Trail stands out for its named viewpoints.
Hanging Gardens offers a different kind of landscape: a well-marked trail leads to a cool, shaded sandstone alcove with vines, ferns and orchids. Alongside the loop trails’ expansive views, this sheltered alcove and its vegetation offer another distinct facet of the surrounding area. The Glen Canyon Dam Overlook offers views of Glen Canyon Dam and the Colorado River. From the Carl Hayden Visitor Center, you can also see the dam and river, as well as Lake Powell.
Lake Powell: Scenery and Activities
Lake Powell has 96 major canyons, some of which are 15 to 20 miles long. Some of Lake Powell’s 96 major canyons are 15 to 20 miles long; boat tours on the lake offer insights into its history and geology. A trip can therefore also be a way to learn more about how the landscape formed and about its past.
At Antelope Point Marina, watercraft, houseboats and kayaks are available to rent for day trips or longer stays on Lake Powell. Since rental offerings may change, it’s a good idea to check the current options before making plans. The lake’s clear water is also part of its appeal: it is home to many game fish. The species present may change over time.
Page History and Amenities
Page began in 1957 as a housing camp for workers at Glen Canyon Dam. This origin links the city’s history directly to the people who worked on the dam and gives visitors a historical point of reference alongside the landscape.
John C. Page Memorial Park adds an in-town option to the nature and dam viewpoints. Its amenities include a skate park, pickleball and basketball courts, and a spacious playground. This means Page can be explored through more than just viewpoints and trails: urban open spaces and sports facilities are also part of what the city has to offer.
Discover more destinations: Flagstaff, Tuba City, Williams, Bellemont, Grand Canyon Village, Sedona, Tusayan
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