Horseshoe Bend

About

Horseshoe Bend is one of those places that stops you in your tracks. Located just south of Page, Arizona, this dramatic meander of the Colorado River sits 1,000 feet below a sandstone cliff edge, creating a nearly perfect horseshoe shape that has become one of the most photographed landscapes in the country.

The viewpoint is managed by the National Park Service as part of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. A relatively short trail leads from the parking area off Highway 89 to the canyon rim, where visitors are rewarded with a sweeping panorama of the river, the towering red rock walls, and the vast desert sky.

In recent years, the trail and viewing area have undergone significant improvements. The path from the parking lot to the overlook has been upgraded to make the experience more accessible and manageable for a wider range of visitors. The viewing platform at the rim provides a safe, designated area to take in the scenery without needing to navigate the uneven rock surfaces that were once the only option.

Visitors should plan for the desert climate. Temperatures in summer can exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit, and there is very little shade along the trail. Bringing plenty of water is essential regardless of the season. The parking area charges a $10 fee per vehicle, so have cash or a card ready. An America the Beautiful pass also covers entry.

The best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon, when the light on the canyon walls is most dramatic and the crowds are thinner. Sunset can be spectacular, but expect company. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures for the walk.

While you are in the area, Page serves as a convenient base for exploring other attractions like Antelope Canyon, Lake Powell, and the Glen Canyon Dam. Horseshoe Bend makes an easy half-day stop that pairs well with these nearby destinations.

Accessibility

The Horseshoe Bend trailhead parking lot off Highway 89 includes 6 designated accessible parking spaces on a paved surface. The trail from the parking lot to the overlook has been improved in recent years, but visitors should be aware of some important details.

The trail surface transitions from pavement near the parking area to a more natural surface that includes packed gravel, dirt, and some uneven terrain. There is a notable elevation change along the route, which may present challenges for manual wheelchair users or visitors with limited mobility. The trail is approximately 1.5 miles round trip.

The overlook area includes a railed viewing platform that provides a safer and more accessible vantage point compared to the open cliff edge. Restroom facilities are available at the trailhead parking area.

For visitors who would prefer to experience Horseshoe Bend without hiking the trail, Wilderness River Adventures offers ADA-friendly float trips on the Colorado River that travel upriver to the bend, providing views from the water level. Visual aids are provided at certain stops along the river tour.

There is no shade along the trail, so visitors with heat sensitivity should plan accordingly and bring sun protection and water. Contact Glen Canyon National Recreation Area directly for the most current information on trail conditions and accessibility accommodations, as improvements have been ongoing.

More accessible places in Arizona

• Antelope Canyon (Page)
• Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum (Tucson)
• Children's Museum of Phoenix (Phoenix)
• Heard Museum (Phoenix)
• Musical Instrument Museum (Phoenix)
• Slide Rock State Park (Sedona)

Photo credits

• Horseshoe Bend in Arizona - main view of this popular destination: National Park Service, Public domain (U.S. National Park Service)
• Horseshoe Bend in Arizona - additional view showing features and amenities (2): National Park Service, Public domain (U.S. National Park Service)
• Horseshoe Bend in Arizona - additional view showing features and amenities (3): National Park Service, Public domain (U.S. National Park Service)