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Hanging Garden Trail: A Desert Oasis

Discover a hidden desert oasis on this easy hike to a lush hanging garden within Glen Canyon National Recreation Area near Page, Arizona.

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The Hanging Garden Trail, near Page, Arizona, is a short, easy hike within Glen Canyon National Recreation Area that leads to a unique hanging garden, a lush collection of ferns and other plants thriving in a sheltered alcove fed by a natural spring. This verdant oasis offers a striking contrast to the surrounding arid landscape.

A brief summary to Hanging Garden Trailhead

  • Monday 6:30 am-8 pm
  • Tuesday 6:30 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 6:30 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 6:30 am-8 pm
  • Friday 6:30 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 6:30 am-8 pm
  • Sunday 6:30 am-8 pm

Local tips

  • Hike in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat, as there is little to no shade on the trail.
  • Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
  • Wear sturdy shoes suitable for hiking on rocky and sandy terrain.
  • Take the short detour to the scenic overlook for panoramic views of Lake Powell and the surrounding area.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Page, Arizona, head east on US-89 N. The trailhead is located a short distance east of the Glen Canyon Dam. If coming from the west, look for the dirt road turn off (marked with a hiker sign) immediately after crossing the Glen Canyon Dam bridge. Turn right onto the dirt road and follow it to the parking area. A Glen Canyon National Recreation Area entrance pass is required. A 1-7 day vehicle pass costs $30.

  • Walking

    From the Carl Hayden Visitor Center at the Glen Canyon Dam, walk east along US-89 N. After crossing the dam, look for a dirt road on the right, marked with a hiker sign. Follow the dirt road a short distance to the parking area and trailhead. A Glen Canyon National Recreation Area entrance pass is required to access the trail. A 1-7 day individual pass costs $15.

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Discover more about Hanging Garden Trailhead

The Hanging Garden Trail offers a unique opportunity to witness a desert oasis within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. This easy 1.2 to 1.5-mile round trip hike leads to a hanging garden, where a natural spring seeps through the sandstone, creating a lush environment for ferns and other plant life. The trail itself is well-marked, with a path lined by rocks that guide hikers across the sandy and rocky terrain. The route is mostly flat, making it suitable for families and hikers of all skill levels. As you approach the hanging garden, the trail transitions to slickrock, offering views of the surrounding landscape. A short scramble up a sandstone bench leads to the alcove where the hanging garden flourishes. The hanging garden is formed by a seep spring that captures rainwater and slowly releases it, allowing vegetation to grow vertically on the sheltered wall. This creates a cool and moist microclimate, a stark contrast to the surrounding desert. While the hanging garden itself may be considered a relatively mundane destination by some, a short diversion to a scenic lookout offers rewarding views of Navajo Mountain, Lake Powell, and the Glen Canyon Dam. While hiking, be aware that there is little to no shade, so it's best to hike in the early morning or late afternoon. Also, watch out for poison ivy near the alcove.

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