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Glen Canyon National Recreation Area: A Water-Based Wonderland

Explore the stunning canyons, mesas, and blue waters of Lake Powell in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, a haven for outdoor adventure.

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Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, encompassing Lake Powell, offers a stunning landscape of sandstone canyons, mesas, and over 1.2 million acres for water-based and backcountry recreation. Established in 1972, the area provides opportunities for boating, hiking, fishing, and exploring the unique desert environment.

A brief summary to Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

Local tips

  • Plan your trip in the spring or fall for moderate temperatures and fewer crowds.
  • Check the National Park Service website for current conditions, advisories, and alerts.
  • Bring plenty of water and sun protection, especially during the summer months.
  • A standard entrance pass costs $30.00 and is valid for 1-7 days.
  • Leashed pets are permitted in most areas of the recreation area.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Page, AZ, the park headquarters is located at 691 Scenic View Rd Dr. From Highway 89, follow the signs to the Carl Hayden Visitor Center and Glen Canyon Dam. The entrance to the park is well-marked. Keep in mind that entrance fees apply. Parking is available at the visitor center and various trailheads throughout the park.

  • Public Transportation

    While there isn't direct public transportation to all areas within Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, some bus services connect to Page, AZ. From Page, you can then access the park by taxi, ride-sharing services, or rental car. However, these options can be limited, so plan accordingly. Check local transportation schedules and availability in advance.

Unlock the Best of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

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Discover more about Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is a stunning expanse of natural beauty and recreational opportunities, stretching from Lees Ferry in Arizona to the Orange Cliffs of southern Utah. Established in 1972, the park encompasses over 1.2 million acres, offering a diverse landscape of scenic vistas, geologic wonders, and a rich human history. The heart of the recreation area is Lake Powell, the second-largest man-made lake in the United States, formed by the impoundment of the Colorado River behind the Glen Canyon Dam. Lake Powell boasts nearly 2,000 miles of shoreline, dotted with numerous canyons, inlets, and coves, making it a paradise for houseboating, photography, and exploration. The area is a haven for water sports enthusiasts, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, waterskiing, and wakeboarding. Anglers can try their luck at catching striped bass, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, walleye, catfish, and northern pike. Beyond the lake, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area offers a variety of land-based activities. Hiking trails wind through the canyons, providing access to stunning viewpoints and unique geological formations. Off-road vehicle routes allow visitors to explore the backcountry and discover hidden gems. The area is also rich in history, with evidence of human presence dating back over 10,000 years. Several visitor centers are located throughout the recreation area, providing information, exhibits, and ranger programs. The Carl Hayden Visitor Center, located near the Glen Canyon Dam, is open year-round and offers tours of the dam. Other visitor centers, such as the Bullfrog Visitor Center and the Navajo Bridge Interpretive Center, are open seasonally.

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