Background

Carl Hayden Visitor Center: Gateway to Glen Canyon

Discover the story of Glen Canyon Dam and explore the natural wonders of Lake Powell at this informative visitor center.

4.6

The Carl Hayden Visitor Center, located on the west side of the Glen Canyon Dam, offers panoramic views of the dam, Lake Powell, and the Colorado River. Named after Arizona Senator Carl Hayden, the center provides exhibits about water use in the Colorado River Basin and information on the Glen Canyon Dam.

A brief summary to Carl Hayden Visitor Center

Local tips

  • Arrive early 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 Colorado River.
  • Check the schedule for ranger-led programs for unique insights into the area.
  • Take advantage of the free maps and guides to plan your exploration of nearby hiking trails and scenic spots.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Car

    If driving from Page, Arizona, head north on US-89 for approximately 3.5 miles. The Carl Hayden Visitor Center will be on the right, attached to the Glen Canyon Dam. Ample parking is available directly outside the center. There are no parking fees.

  • Public Transportation

    Limited public transportation options are available directly to the Carl Hayden Visitor Center. The best option is to take a local shuttle service or taxi from Page. Contact local hotels for shuttle service information or use ride-sharing apps. A taxi or rideshare from Page will cost approximately $15 - $25.

  • Walking

    If staying in Page, you can walk to the Carl Hayden Visitor Center by heading north on US-89. The walk is approximately 2.5 miles from the city center. Use caution as you walk along the highway. Check local maps for sidewalks and safe crossing points.

Unlock the Best of Carl Hayden Visitor Center

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Carl Hayden Visitor Center

The Carl Hayden Visitor Center is more than just a stopover; it's an introduction to the wonders of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. Perched on the west side of the Glen Canyon Dam, about 110 feet above its crest, the center provides stunning panoramic views of the dam, Lake Powell, and the Colorado River. Inside, exhibits detail the history of the Glen Canyon Dam and its impact on water management in the arid West. Named after Carl Hayden, an Arizona senator influential in developing water resources in the Western United States, the center pays homage to American engineering and resourcefulness. Visitors can learn about the dam's construction, its role in power generation, and the ongoing debate surrounding its environmental impact. The visitor center also offers information about recreational opportunities in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, including Lake Powell, Rainbow Bridge National Monument, and Horseshoe Bend. It serves as a starting point for exploring the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region. Completed in 1963, the Carl Hayden Visitor Center was designed by architect Cecil J. Doty as part of the National Park Service’s Mission 66 program. Its architecture reflects the dam's structural elegance, harmonizing with the surrounding landscape. The center's rotunda, with its glass-enclosed east end, cantilevers over the canyon rim, providing a spectacular overlook.

Popular Experiences near Carl Hayden Visitor Center

Popular Hotels near Carl Hayden Visitor Center

Select Currency