Horseshoe Bend is a stunning horseshoe-shaped meander of the Colorado River located just outside Page, where the river makes an almost 270-degree curve around a massive sandstone butte 1,000 feet below the overlook rim. The dramatic canyon walls and deep blue-green water create one of Arizona's most iconic photographs.
Horseshoe Bend is one of Arizona's most iconic overlook experiences — a near-perfect 270-degree meander of the Colorado River that curves around a massive sandstone peninsula 1,000 feet below the viewing platform. Located just 4 miles south of Page, Arizona, the site lies within Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and is managed by the National Park Service. The trailhead involves a 1.5-mile round-trip walk across sandy desert terrain, climbing gradually over a low sandstone ridge before revealing the sudden, breathtaking drop to the river below. The Colorado River appears a deep teal-green at the bottom of the canyon, a color created by cold, clear water released from the base of Glen Canyon Dam upstream. Sunrise and sunset produce the most dramatic photographic conditions — morning light illuminates the inner canyon walls, while late afternoon lights up the full horseshoe curve from the west. Midday produces flat, harsh lighting that flattens the canyon depth. The overlook has been significantly upgraded with protective railings, a viewing platform extension, shade structures, and accessible pathways, though the final viewing area still requires some careful footing near exposed cliff edges. Visitor numbers have grown dramatically — from approximately 100,000 annually in 2012 to over 2 million today — making weekday mornings in shoulder season (April-May or September-October) the best time for uncrowded views and available parking. A paved accessible parking area with accessible restrooms opened in 2020. The site pairs naturally with a visit to Antelope Canyon, less than 10 minutes away by car, making Page, Arizona an excellent base for a full day of concentrated natural wonders.
Good to know
- Hours
- Sunrise to sunset
- Best time
- sunset
- Best for
- photographers, families, first-time visitors
Location
US-89, Page, AZ 86040
36.8791, -111.5100 View on map
Highlights
- Stand at the rim above the Colorado River's 270-degree horseshoe curve — 1,000 feet below — for a dramatic Southwest overlook
- Photograph the teal-green Colorado River framed by smooth sandstone canyon walls at sunrise or sunset
- Walk the 1.5-mile round-trip trail across open desert to the protected overlook platform
- Combine with Antelope Canyon, just 10 minutes away, for a full day of Page-area geological wonders
- View one of the American Southwest's most photographed natural features from a purpose-built observation platform with railings
Tips for visiting
- The 1.5-mile round-trip hike has minimal shade — bring water
- Sunset typically offers more dramatic lighting than sunrise
When to visit
Sunrise and the early morning hours produce warm, directional light on the inner canyon walls and the lowest visitor numbers. Sunset lights up the horseshoe curve brilliantly but draws larger crowds. Weekday visits in April-May or September-October combine favorable light with off-peak visitor numbers.
Accessibility
The parking area and restrooms are fully accessible. The trail includes sections of deep loose sand that may be difficult for wheelchairs, though the first 0.3 miles from the trailhead has been improved with a compacted surface. The overlook platform has protective railings.
Frequently asked questions
How difficult is the hike to Horseshoe Bend?
The trail is 1.5 miles round trip with modest elevation gain over sandy terrain. It is considered easy to moderate and takes about 30-45 minutes each way. The main challenge is deep sand on the approach and heat in summer months.
Is there an entrance fee for Horseshoe Bend?
There is a $10 per-vehicle parking fee at the official trailhead. The site is within Glen Canyon National Recreation Area; an America the Beautiful annual pass is accepted in lieu of the parking fee.
Is Horseshoe Bend suitable for families with children?
Yes, though the overlook has a significant drop and young children should be closely supervised near the rim. The trail itself is manageable for older children and adults of most fitness levels.