Glen Canyon National Recreation Area: Nature’s Majestic Canvas
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, where adventure meets nature amidst stunning landscapes in Utah.
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area in Utah is a breathtaking expanse of natural beauty, where sandstone cliffs meet the serene waters of Lake Powell. This stunning landscape offers endless opportunities for adventure, including hiking, boating, and photography. Travelers are enchanted by the vibrant colors of the canyon and the peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike.
A brief summary to Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
- Utah, US
- +1928-608-6200
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during sunrise or sunset for the best lighting for photography.
- Bring plenty of water and sunscreen; the desert climate can be intense.
- Check the water levels of Lake Powell before planning water activities.
- Consider taking a guided tour to learn about the area's history and ecology.
- Plan your visit during weekdays to avoid larger crowds on weekends.
Getting There
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Car
From Capitol Reef National Park, head east on UT-24 E for approximately 70 miles. This route will take you through scenic landscapes. You will pass the town of Hanksville. Continue on UT-24 until you reach the junction with US-95 S. Turn left onto US-95 S and continue for about 25 miles. Look for the signs indicating Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. The entrance is located near the town of Bullfrog.
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Public Transportation
Due to limited public transportation options in this remote area, it is advisable to take a bus shuttle service from a nearby town such as Hanksville. You will need to plan your trip in advance by contacting local shuttle services. Once you arrive in Hanksville, look for shuttle options that may take you to the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. Note that this option may require waiting times and coordination for the return trip.
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Combination of Car and Boat
If you are interested in exploring the water of Glen Canyon, you can drive to the Bullfrog Marina after taking the routes mentioned above. The marina offers boat rentals and tours. To get there, follow the same route as mentioned for cars, and once you arrive at Bullfrog, rent a boat to explore the stunning views of the canyon from the water. Be aware that boat rentals have additional costs, which vary by service provider.
Discover more about Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cathedral in the Desert
13.2 km
Discover the awe-inspiring Cathedral in the Desert, where nature's artistry and stunning rock formations create a memorable escape in Utah's breathtaking landscapes.
Spooky Gulch
34.0 km
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Clay Hill Pass
46.4 km
Explore Clay Hill Pass, a historical landmark in Lake Powell, Utah, where stunning views meet rich stories of the past, perfect for adventurers and history lovers.
West Canyon
50.4 km
Explore the stunning natural beauty of West Canyon, a mesmerizing channel in Utah filled with hiking trails and breathtaking landscapes.
Phipps Arch
64.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Phipps Arch, a natural wonder in Escalante, Utah, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Goulding's Resort RV & Campground
69.8 km
Experience Monument Valley's beauty and history at Goulding's Resort RV & Campground, offering stunning views, modern amenities, and cultural tours.
Monument Valley Airbnb
71.3 km
Experience authentic Navajo hospitality in the heart of Monument Valley with unique hogan and cabin stays, supporting local Diné families.
Wahweap Bay
71.8 km
Explore the heart of Lake Powell at Wahweap Bay: boating, canyons, and stunning desert scenery await!
Adventurous Antelope Canyon
72.4 km
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Circle Cliffs
72.4 km
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Explore Monument Valley
73.1 km
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Navajo Welcome Center
73.1 km
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Welcome to Arizona sign
73.2 km
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Wahweap Viewpoint
73.5 km
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Antelope canyon
73.7 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Jacob Hamblin Arch
18.1 km
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Reflection Canyon
23.1 km
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Hurricane Wash Trailhead
25.6 km
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Halls Creek Narrows
26.6 km
Explore Halls Creek Narrows in Utah: a serene adventure through stunning slot canyons and breathtaking natural beauty.
Defiance House
28.8 km
Explore Defiance House, a historical landmark in Lake Powell, where ancient Puebloan culture and stunning landscapes intertwine for an unforgettable experience.
Peek-a-boo Gulch Parking Area
33.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Peek-a-boo Gulch Parking Area, your gateway to Utah's stunning slot canyons and natural wonders.
Spooky Slot Canyon
34.0 km
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Peek-a-boo slot Canyon
34.7 km
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Dry Fork Slot Canyon
34.8 km
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Rainbow Bridge National Monument
36.0 km
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Hole-in-the-Rock-Trail
36.8 km
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Neon Canyon
38.0 km
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Egypt 1 Canyon Trailhead
42.1 km
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Lake Powell
50.1 km
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Cosmic Ashtray
53.2 km
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Essential places to dine
Escalante Towing and Recovery, Inc
61.8 km
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Antelope Point Marina Restaurant
70.4 km
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Goulding's Stagecoach Dining Room
70.6 km
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Rainbow Room
71.7 km
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Driftwood Lounge
71.7 km
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Latitude 37
71.9 km
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Linda’s Red Trailer.
72.9 km
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Prickly Pear Kitchen
75.0 km
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Ranch House Grille
75.3 km
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Bonkers Restaurant
75.3 km
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Strombolli’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria
75.4 km
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Grand Canyon Brewing +Distillery
75.4 km
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BirdHouse
75.4 km
Savor delicious chicken dishes at BirdHouse in Page, AZ—a favorite fast food destination known for quality flavors and budget-friendly prices.
Little Caesars Pizza
75.5 km
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Paco's Tacos
75.5 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bullfrog Marina Corner Store
18.1 km
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Trainrock Tire Repair
59.3 km
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Big Horn Canyon Trailhead
65.1 km
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Kiva Koffeehouse
66.3 km
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Cedar Wash Arch
68.7 km
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Shi Stop Shop
69.5 km
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Goulding's Grocery Store
70.3 km
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Goulding’s Gas Station
70.4 km
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Gift Shop
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CASTLE ROCK OUTLET STORE
72.1 km
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Slippers One
72.8 km
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Monument Valley Tribal Tours
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Four Mountains Coffee
73.2 km
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Navajo Indian Market
74.8 km
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Fred's Liquor Store
75.2 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bullfrog Marina - Utah
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Last Chance Bay
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Tear Drop Arch B&B
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Rodeway Inn at Lake Powell
75.5 km
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Blue Bar & Wine
75.6 km
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Glen Canyon Dam
75.7 km
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State 48 Tavern
75.7 km
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Lake Powell Espresso
75.7 km
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Mulligan's Pub & Patio
75.9 km
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Miss B’s Bistro
75.9 km
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Denny's
76.0 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Page Shores Amphitheater
76.2 km
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DJ Cody Inc
76.8 km
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Sunset 89
76.8 km
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Nemo's Drive Thru
79.2 km
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Historic Escalante Showhouse
79.3 km
Experience the vibrant live music scene at the Historic Escalante Showhouse, a cultural hub in the heart of Utah's picturesque Escalante.
Cowboy Country Inn
79.4 km
Discover the rustic charm and natural beauty at Cowboy Country Inn, your perfect base for exploring Escalante, Utah's breathtaking landscapes.
The INN of Escalante
79.7 km
Discover the charm of The INN of Escalante, your perfect base to explore Utah's stunning natural landscapes and outdoor adventures.
Esca-latte Restaurant
79.7 km
Experience the best of Escalante with fresh, local flavors at Esca-latte Restaurant, the perfect café for travelers seeking comfort and delicious meals.
Prospector Inn
79.8 km
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4th West Pub
79.8 km
Experience the local flavors and cozy atmosphere at 4th West Pub, the perfect bar and grill in Escalante, Utah.
Circle D Motel
79.9 km
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Circle D Restaurant
79.9 km
Experience the essence of American comfort food at Circle D Restaurant in Escalante, where every meal is a memorable occasion.
Entrada Escalante Lodge
80.0 km
Discover comfort and adventure at Entrada Escalante Lodge, your ideal base for exploring Utah's breathtaking landscapes.
