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Carl Hayden Visitor Center: Gateway to Glen Canyon

Explore Glen Canyon Dam and Lake Powell at this informative visitor center with stunning panoramic views.

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The Carl Hayden Visitor Center, perched atop the Glen Canyon Dam, offers panoramic views of Lake Powell and the Colorado River. Named after a long-serving Arizona senator, the center provides exhibits about the dam's construction, water management, and the region's natural history.

A brief summary to Carl Hayden Visitor Center

Local tips

  • Arrive early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the Glen Canyon Dam, Lake Powell, and the surrounding landscape.
  • Check the schedule for ranger-led programs and presentations to learn more about the area's history and ecology.
  • Take advantage of the free maps and guides to plan hikes and scenic drives in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby attractions like Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, or the Navajo Bridge.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    If driving from Page, Arizona, head north on US-89 for approximately 3.5 miles. The Carl Hayden Visitor Center will be on your right, adjacent to the Glen Canyon Dam. Ample parking is available. Parking is free.

  • Public Transportation

    Limited public transportation options are available directly to the Carl Hayden Visitor Center. Consider using a local shuttle service or taxi from Page. Ask your hotel for recommendations or use ride-sharing apps. Shuttle costs vary, but a taxi from Page will likely cost around $15-$25.

  • Walking

    If staying in Page, you can walk to the Carl Hayden Visitor Center. The walk is approximately 2.5 miles along US-89. Use caution and be aware of traffic. Check local maps for sidewalks and safe crossing points.

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Discover more about Carl Hayden Visitor Center

The Carl Hayden Visitor Center stands as a tribute to American engineering and the management of water resources in the arid West. Completed in 1963, the center is strategically located on the west side of the Glen Canyon Dam, offering visitors breathtaking views of Lake Powell, the Glen Canyon Bridge, and the Colorado River. Inside, exhibits detail the history of the Glen Canyon Dam, its construction, and its impact on the region. Visitors can learn about the dam's role in water storage and power generation in the Southwest. Informative videos, topographical maps, and interactive displays provide insights into the area's geology, wildlife, and recreational opportunities. The visitor center is named after Carl Trumbull Hayden, an Arizona politician who served in Congress for 56 years and was a staunch advocate for water rights in Arizona. The building itself was designed by architect Cecil J. Doty as part of the National Park Service’s Mission 66 program. Its architecture is intended to harmonize with the surrounding natural landscape. While dam tours are currently unavailable due to security concerns, the Carl Hayden Visitor Center remains a valuable resource for planning excursions into the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. Knowledgeable rangers are on hand to answer questions and provide information about nearby attractions such as Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and Rainbow Bridge National Monument.

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