Lees Ferry, Coconino County Travel Guide

4.8 (1027)

Explore the historic gateway to the Grand Canyon: Lees Ferry, Arizona. River trips, fishing, hiking, and stunning scenery await!

Lees Ferry, Arizona, is a historic Colorado River crossing point and the only place within Glen Canyon National Recreation Area where you can drive directly to the river. Steeped in pioneer history and stunning natural beauty, it's a launch point for Grand Canyon expeditions and a haven for anglers and hikers.

A brief summary to Lees Ferry

Spencer Trail, Marble Canyon, Arizona, 86036, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Lees Ferry.

A National Park Pass or entrance fee is required to access Lees Ferry. The fee is $30 per vehicle.
Lees Ferry Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis and costs $26 per night.
Obtain a free Lees Ferry Backcountry River Permit if you plan to use a watercraft on the Colorado River between Glen Canyon Dam and Lees Ferry.
Visit the Navajo Bridge Interpretive Center near Marble Canyon for local travel information.
Bring appropriate footwear for hiking in the riverbed if you plan to hike the Paria Canyon.

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Getting There

Driving

Lees Ferry is located off US Hwy 89A, approximately 42 miles southwest of Page, Arizona, and 123 miles north of Flagstaff. From Flagstaff, take US 89A north. From Page, take US 89 south to US 89A west. Just west of the Navajo Bridge in Marble Canyon, turn right onto Lees Ferry Road. Follow this paved road for approximately 5 miles to the Lees Ferry area. Be prepared to pay a $30 entrance fee per vehicle at the automated fee machine; cards only, no cash accepted. Parking is available in the day-use area. Camping is available at the Lees Ferry Campground for $26 per night.

Discover more about Lees Ferry

Lees Ferry, located in northern Arizona, is more than just a scenic spot; it's a place where history and natural grandeur converge. As the only point within Glen Canyon National Recreation Area where you can drive right to the Colorado River, it has served as a crucial river crossing for centuries.Named after John D. Lee, who established a ferry service here in the 1870s, Lees Ferry played a vital role in the exploration and settlement of northern Arizona. Mormon pioneers, including couples on the 'Honeymoon Trail' seeking to marry in the Salt Lake City temple, relied on this crossing. The remnants of the old ferry crossing and the nearby Lonely Dell Ranch offer a glimpse into this past.Today, Lees Ferry is a popular launch point for river rafting trips through the Grand Canyon and a world-class fishing destination. The cold, clear waters emerging from Glen Canyon Dam create ideal conditions for trout, attracting anglers from around the globe. Hiking trails wind through the surrounding landscape, providing opportunities to explore the canyon's beauty.Visitors can explore the Lees Ferry Historic Site, including the remains of a sunken paddlewheel steamboat and the old Lees Ferry Fort. The nearby Lonely Dell Ranch Historic Site offers a glimpse into the lives of the families who operated the ferry. Whether you're interested in history, outdoor adventure, or simply soaking in the stunning scenery, Lees Ferry offers a unique and unforgettable experience.