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Rainbow Bridge National Monument: A Natural and Sacred Wonder

Discover Rainbow Bridge National Monument: Awe-inspiring natural beauty and sacred Native American heritage in the heart of Utah's canyon country.

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Rainbow Bridge National Monument protects one of the world's largest natural bridges, a towering sandstone formation sacred to the Navajo people. Accessible primarily by boat via Lake Powell, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural significance.

A brief summary to Rainbow Bridge National Monument

Local tips

  • Respect the sacred nature of the site by not walking under the bridge and staying on marked trails.
  • Bring plenty of water, especially during the hot summer months, as there are no facilities to refill within the monument.
  • Check Lake Powell water levels and boat tour availability in advance, as low water levels can affect access.
  • If hiking, obtain a permit from the Navajo Nation well in advance and be prepared for a strenuous trek.
  • Be aware that service animals are not permitted on the dock or trail at Rainbow Bridge National Monument.
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Getting There

  • Boat Tour

    The most common way to reach Rainbow Bridge is by boat from Lake Powell. Several marinas offer tours, including Wahweap Marina and Bullfrog Marina. These tours typically involve a scenic 50-mile boat ride through Glen Canyon to the Rainbow Bridge dock, followed by a 1.2-mile hike to the bridge. Typical Cost: * Boat tour: Prices vary, but expect to pay around $165 per person. * Glen Canyon National Recreation Area entrance fee: $30 per vehicle (valid for 7 days).

  • Hiking

    Adventurous travelers can hike to Rainbow Bridge, but it requires a permit from the Navajo Nation and a challenging trek of 14+ miles. The trailheads are located on Navajo Nation lands south of Lake Powell. Contact the Navajo Nation Parks & Recreation for permit information. Typical Cost: * Navajo Nation permit: Cost varies; contact Navajo Nation Parks & Recreation for current fees.

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Discover more about Rainbow Bridge National Monument

Rainbow Bridge National Monument, nestled in the rugged canyons of southern Utah, is home to Rainbow Bridge, one of the largest natural bridges on Earth. Rising 290 feet high and spanning 275 feet, this majestic sandstone formation has been sculpted by millions of years of erosion. For centuries, Rainbow Bridge has been a sacred site for Native American tribes, including the Navajo, who call it Nonnezoshe, meaning "rainbow turned to stone". The bridge symbolizes deities responsible for creating clouds, rainbows, and rain, which are essential for life in the desert. Visitors are asked to respect the cultural significance of the site and avoid walking under the bridge. Access to Rainbow Bridge is primarily via boat on Lake Powell, followed by a 1.2-mile hike to the monument. Boat tours are available from various marinas, offering a scenic journey through the stunning canyons of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. Hiking to the bridge is also possible, but requires a permit from the Navajo Nation and involves a challenging trek of 14+ miles. Rainbow Bridge National Monument is open year-round, though the best times to visit are during the spring and fall when temperatures are milder. There are no facilities within the monument itself, so visitors should come prepared with plenty of water, food, and sun protection. Camping is not allowed within the monument boundaries, but is permitted nearby on the beaches of Lake Powell or with a permit on Navajo Nation lands.

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