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Glen Canyon: A Land Carved by Time and Water

Explore Glen Canyon: A stunning landscape of history, recreation, and geological wonders in the heart of the American Southwest.

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Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, encompassing over 1.25 million acres, offers a stunning landscape of water-based and backcountry recreation. Carved by the Colorado River, it features scenic vistas, geological wonders, and a rich human history, stretching from Lees Ferry in Arizona to the Orange Cliffs of southern Utah.

A brief summary to Glen Canyon

  • Arizona, US

Local tips

  • Entrance fees are required to enter Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. Purchase a pass online or at an entrance station.
  • Check the National Park Service website for current conditions, including lake levels, closures, and fire restrictions.
  • Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat, especially if hiking or boating.
  • Consider visiting the Carl Hayden Visitor Center to learn about the history and geology of Glen Canyon.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Page, Arizona, follow US-89 towards the Carl Hayden Visitor Center. The Recreation Area is easily accessible by car. There is parking available at the Carl Hayden Visitor Center and various trailheads throughout the park. Note that the parking lot at Horseshoe Bend Overlook is managed by the City of Page and may require a separate fee. Expect to pay $30 for a 1-7 day vehicle entrance fee to Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.

  • Public Transport

    While limited, public transportation options exist. From the Grand Canyon, take the Trans-Canyon Shuttle to Marble Canyon. From there, connect to Page, Arizona, and then use local taxi or ride-sharing services to reach specific destinations within Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. The bus from Grand Canyon to Glen Canyon National Recreation Area costs $65 - $120.

Unlock the Best of Glen Canyon

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Discover more about Glen Canyon

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is a vast and varied landscape sculpted by the Colorado River over millennia. The canyon's story stretches back thousands of years, with Archaic and prehistoric Indian cultures leaving their mark. Explorers, miners, ranchers, and various tribes also contributed to the area's rich history. In more recent times, the construction of the Glen Canyon Dam in 1963 led to the creation of Lake Powell, the second-largest man-made reservoir in the U.S. While the dam provides water storage and hydroelectric power, it also submerged much of the original Glen Canyon, a controversial outcome that sparked modern environmental movements. Today, Glen Canyon offers many activities. Lake Powell is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and watersports. Hiking trails wind through the surrounding desert, offering panoramic views. Visitors can explore historic sites like Lees Ferry, where they can touch the Colorado River. Glen Canyon Dam itself is an impressive structure, and the Carl Hayden Visitor Center provides insights into its construction and operation. Whether you're seeking adventure on the water, exploring ancient ruins, or simply soaking in the beauty of the American Southwest, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area offers a memorable experience.

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