If you’re planning a road trip through Arizona, Horseshoe Bend is one spot you absolutely can’t miss. It’s even featured on the “Welcome to Arizona” sign!
Table of Contents
ToggleTo be honest, Horseshoe Bend wasn’t our main reason for being in Page, we initially planned just to visit Upper Antelope Canyon, but stopping by Horseshoe Bend turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip.
The grand scale, the glowing red rocks at sunset, and the up-close view of the Colorado River were unforgettable.
If you’re heading to the Southwest, here’s everything you need to know about how to visit Horseshoe Bend, Arizona.

⏰ Short on time?
Where to Stay in Page, Arizona
– Lake Powell Motel & Apartments (Budget)
– Hampton Inn & Suites in Page (Mid-Range)
– Courtyard by Marriott Page (Mid-Range)
– Lake Powell Resort (Luxury)
Things to Do
– Upper Antelope Canyon Tour
– Horseshoe Bend
– Lake Powell
– Glen Canyon Dam Overlook
👉 Where we rented our car here
Disclaimer: Please note that some of the links in this article may be affiliate links. This means that, at no extra cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click on or make a purchase through these links.
What Is Horseshoe Bend?
Horseshoe Bend is a spectacular rock formation carved out by the Colorado River, creating a nearly perfect horseshoe shape. The view from the Horseshoe Bend Overlook is famous for its vibrant turquoise water against the deep red sandstone cliffs. It’s easy to see why it’s one of Arizona’s most photographed sites.

How to Get to Horseshoe Bend
Horseshoe Bend is located just a 10 minute drive from Page, Arizona on U.S. Route 89. There’s a small fee for parking by the highway, and it’s super accessible by car. Adding it to your itinerary is easy, especially if you’re road-tripping.
Here are approximate drive times from popular nearby destinations:
Flagstaff – 2 hours
Las Vegas – Around 4 hours
Grand Canyon South Rim – 2.5 hours
Sedona – Around 2.5 hours (we headed there afterwards)
My experience at Horseshoe Bend
👉 Watch my exact experience visiting Horseshoe Bend
Hiking the Horseshoe Bend Trail
From the parking lot, it’s about a 0.75 mile hike each way to the Horseshoe Bend Overlook. The Horseshoe Bend trail is relatively short, but the loose gravel can be a little slippery. It took us around 15 minutes to reach the top from the parking area, but if you’re stopping for photos or enjoying the scenery, plan for 20-30 minutes each way.
Tip – Wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water, especially in the summer. There are shaded benches along the way if you need a break.
Enjoying the View (and Staying Safe!)
The overlook is breathtaking, but the cliffs drop about 1,000 feet straight down to the river below! There’s a small fenced area, but most of the rim is open and unfenced. If you’re nervous around heights, stick close to the fenced section for the best views. The sight of the turquoise Colorado River cutting through the red canyon walls is pretty amazing to see!


Best Time to Visit Horseshoe Bend
Time of Day – Early morning or sunset is the best time to visit. We went at sunset, and it was magical… although busy! The warm light makes the rocks so vibrant. Sunrise is also fantastic if you prefer a quieter experience with softer lighting.
Best Seasons – Horseshoe Bend is open year-round, but spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) have the most comfortable weather. In summer, temperatures can soar, so if you’re visiting then, go early or late in the day to avoid the midday heat.
Where I Stayed in Page
👉 Watch our hotel review staying at Hampton Inn & Suites in Page
Where to Stay in Page, Arizona
– Lake Powell Motel & Apartments (Budget)
– Hampton Inn & Suites in Page (Mid-Range)
– Courtyard by Marriott Page (Mid-Range)
– Lake Powell Resort (Luxury)
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Horseshoe Bend
Yes! Visiting Horseshoe Bend is straightforward and doesn’t require a guide. However, if you want to combine it with Antelope Canyon, consider booking a Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon tour for convenience.
Absolutely. Antelope Canyon is only a 15 minute drive from Horseshoe Bend, so it’s easy to visit both in one day. That’s exactly what we did. Just remember that Antelope Canyon requires a guided tour, so plan ahead and book in advance, especially during peak season.
Spring and fall offer the best weather for a visit. We went in early fall, and the temperatures were perfect for hiking. Horseshoe Bend is open year-round, but summer can be very hot, so aim for early morning or late afternoon if you’re visiting then.
Yes, there are restrooms at the parking area but none at the overlook itself. Be sure to stop before heading up the trail.
👉 If you want to hire a care in America check out comparisons here
Yes, there are restrooms at the parking area but none at the overlook itself. Be sure to stop before heading up the trail.
No, drones are prohibited since Horseshoe Bend is part of the National Park Service. But trust me, the view is incredible even without aerial shots!
Besides Antelope Canyon, nearby Lake Powell and the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area are also worth exploring. If you’re planning a longer trip, Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park make excellent additions to a Southwest itinerary.
PIN THIS PAGE FOR LATER


Add comment