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Lees Ferry Launch: Gateway to the Grand Canyon
Launch your Grand Canyon adventure from Lees Ferry, a historic Colorado River crossing with stunning scenery and world-class outdoor recreation.
Lees Ferry Launch, located in Marble Canyon, Arizona, is the primary access point to the Colorado River for trips into the Grand Canyon. Rich in history, it offers stunning scenery and recreational opportunities, including fishing, kayaking, and hiking.
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A brief summary to Lees Ferry Launch
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
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Getting There
Driving
From Marble Canyon, take US Highway 89A and turn onto Lees Ferry Road. Follow the paved road for approximately 5 miles to reach the Lees Ferry area. The launch is at the end of the road. There is a $30 per vehicle entrance fee to Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, payable via card at the automated fee machine. Alternatively, an 'America the Beautiful' pass is accepted. Parking is available in the designated lots.
Public Transport
There is no public transportation directly to Lees Ferry Launch. The nearest public transportation is likely in Page, Arizona, about 42 miles away. From there, taxi or ride-sharing services would be needed to reach Lees Ferry, with an estimated cost of $100 - $150.
Local tips
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Obtain a Lees Ferry Backcountry Permit if you plan to use any kind of watercraft on the Colorado River between Glen Canyon Dam and Lees Ferry.
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Visit the Lonely Dell Ranch Historic District to learn about the history of Lees Ferry and the families who operated the ferry service.
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Bring your fishing gear and try your luck at catching rainbow trout in the cold, clear waters of the Colorado River.
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Hike the Spencer Trail for panoramic views of Marble Canyon and the Colorado River.
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Be prepared for fluctuating water levels and potential shallow areas when boating on the Colorado River.
Discover more about Lees Ferry Launch
Lees Ferry Launch is more than just a boat ramp; it's a historic site and the official starting point for many Grand Canyon rafting adventures. Situated in Marble Canyon, where the Paria River meets the Colorado, it boasts a unique landscape of towering red rock cliffs and clear, cold waters.
Originally established as a ferry service in 1871 by Mormon pioneer John D. Lee, it served as a crucial river crossing for settlers, miners, and other travelers. Lee's Ferry played a significant role in the exploration and settlement of Northern Arizona. The ferry operated for over 55 years until the construction of the Navajo Bridge in 1929 made it obsolete.
Today, Lees Ferry is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Anglers come for the world-class trout fishing, while kayakers and boaters enjoy the calm waters and scenic views. Several hiking trails offer panoramic vistas of the canyon and the Colorado River. Visitors can also explore the Lonely Dell Ranch Historic District, which preserves buildings from the ferry's operational days.
Lees Ferry provides a unique blend of history, recreation, and natural beauty, making it a must-see destination in Northern Arizona.
A brief summary to Lees Ferry Launch
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