Hiking - Horseshoe Bend - Page, AZ

 If you have ever sat in your office looking at the Microsoft screen saver and said to yourself that you want to visit one of those photo locations before then Horseshoe Bend is an easy and accessible trail that will take you to one of those locations.  Horseshoe Bend is a location where the Colorado River makes a 270-degree bend, carving out a landscape that is inspiring and unforgettable.  You can easily combine a Horseshoe Bend hike with a trip to Upper Antelope Canyon in a single day and still have time to travel to your next location.


Horseshoe Bend Trail
Distance: 1.4 miles
Trail Type: Out and Back
Elevation Gain: 380 feet
Time: 45 minutes
Difficulty: easy
All Trails Map

The trailhead is well built out now due to the number of people who visit this location.  There is lots of parking available and there is an entry fee of $10 now.  While Horseshoe Bend is technically in the Glen Canyon Recreation Area, the National Park Pass does not work for entry to the trail.  The trailhead is located just about 5 miles from Page AZ off of Highway 89, only about an 8-minute drive.

The trail itself is 1.4 miles out and back.  The trail used to be more difficult with some elevation gain and loss to it, but has recently been rebuilt to make it follow the contour making it an easier walk and accessible.  The trail is fully exposed to the sun so depending on when you are visiting you still want to think about taking some water with you.

As you approach the overlook you are greeted with the view you came for.  Be careful as there are many areas where there are no guard rails to protect you from the edge.  Be aware of where you are standing and be sure to pay attention to pets and kids closely.  Take some time a pic a spot to sit and just enjoy the view.  Be prepared that there will be lots of people scurrying all over the rocks like ants, that is just part of having such an amazing location with just a short walk from the parking lot.  You will cringe as you watch some of these people put themselves into dangerous situations trying to get the selfie but do your best to focus on the beauty of the landscape in front of you will be rewarded.



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