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Horseshoe Bend: A Majestic Colorado River Vista

Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Horseshoe Bend, where the Colorado River carves a dramatic path through the Arizona desert.

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Horseshoe Bend, near Page, Arizona, is a stunning geological formation where the Colorado River makes a dramatic 270-degree turn around a sandstone escarpment. Over millions of years, the river carved this unique horseshoe shape, offering visitors a breathtaking view from 1,000 feet above. It's a must-see destination attracting millions of visitors annually.

A brief summary to Horseshoe Bend

Local tips

  • Bring plenty of water, especially during the summer months, as there is minimal shade on the trail.
  • Wear sturdy shoes and sun protection, including a hat and sunscreen, to protect yourself from the desert environment.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and capture the best lighting for photos.
  • Stay on the marked trails and exercise caution near the rim, as the edges can be unstable.
  • Be prepared to pay a parking fee of $10 for passenger vehicles, as National Park passes are not accepted.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Page, Arizona, head southeast on Highway 89 for approximately 5 miles. Look for the well-marked turnoff for Horseshoe Bend on the west side of the highway, between mile markers 544 and 545. Turn onto the dirt road and follow it to the parking area. Parking costs $10 for passenger vehicles. Cash or credit/debit cards are accepted, but cash only may be required on busy holiday weekends. There is no parking allowed along Highway 89.

  • Walking

    From the parking lot, the overlook is a 0.75-mile (1.5-mile round trip) hike along a hardened, mostly flat trail. The trail is accessible and suitable for most visitors. There are two shade structures along the trail, but none at the overlook itself. Be sure to bring water and wear sun protection.

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Discover more about Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend is a mesmerizing landmark located just outside of Page, Arizona, within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. This iconic spot features a dramatic, horseshoe-shaped bend in the Colorado River, carved into the surrounding sandstone cliffs. The overlook provides a panoramic view from approximately 1,000 feet above the river, showcasing the power and beauty of nature. Geologically, Horseshoe Bend's formation began millions of years ago as the Colorado River carved its way through the soft sandstone layers of the Colorado Plateau. The river followed the path of least resistance, creating the distinctive bend we see today. The exposed Navajo sandstone cliffs date back to the Jurassic period, approximately 200 million years ago. Historically, the area has been inhabited by indigenous peoples for thousands of years, including the Navajo and Ancestral Puebloans, who developed a deep connection to the land and its resources. Today, Horseshoe Bend is managed by the city of Page, Arizona, and attracts visitors from around the globe. The trail to the overlook is a 1.5-mile round trip over a hardened, accessible path. While there are some railings at the edge of the viewing platform, much of the rim remains exposed, requiring visitors to exercise caution.

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