Glen Canyon National Recreation Area wilderness guide
National Recreation Area · AZ, UT
Hiking Guide

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area offers breathtaking scenery and diverse recreational activities around the picturesque Lake Powell. It is a haven for water sports enthusiasts, hikers, and history buffs alike.

National Recreation Area1,254,4294+ Trails

Designation

National Recreation Area

Total Wilderness Area

1,254,429

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area offers breathtaking scenery and diverse recreational activities around the picturesque Lake Powell. It is a haven for water sports enthusiasts, hikers, and history buffs alike.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Spanning over 1.25 million acres along the borders of Arizona and Utah, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is a stunning expanse that draws visitors with its dramatic landscapes and countless recreational opportunities. The area is dominated by Lake Powell, one of the largest man-made reservoirs in the United States, with an intricate shoreline stretching over 1,900 miles. The recreation area boasts a range of habitats, from desert environments with unique geological formations to waterways teeming with aquatic life. Historically, this site carries significant cultural heritage, with Native American relics and remnants of early exploration remaining evident. Visitors can engage in a plethora of outdoor activities, including fishing, kayaking, hiking, and camping. Key landmarks such as Rainbow Bridge, one of the world’s largest natural bridges, add to the allure. Glen Canyon continues to captivate with its balance of serene waters, towering cliffs, and vast desert vistas.

Field Guide · National Recreation Area

Notable Landscape Features

Iconic geological landmarks, alpine vantage points, and distinctive ecosystems in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.

Feature 1

Lake Powell

A sprawling reservoir known for its striking blue waters and over 90 major canyons.

Feature 2

Rainbow Bridge

One of the world's largest natural bridges, accessible by boat or trail.

Feature 3

Horseshoe Bend

A dramatic river bend in the Colorado River offering spectacular views.

Key Wilderness Highlights

Rainbow Bridge National MonumentLees Ferry historic crossing pointAntelope Canyon's iconic slot canyonsLake Powell's scenic waters perfect for boating
Iconic Trails & Natural Landmarks

Top Trails & Sights in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

Discover summit paths, alpine loops, and natural wonders within this protected wilderness.

Easy1.5 miles

Horseshoe Bend Trail

A short trail leading to a breathtaking viewpoint of the Colorado River's iconic bend.

Moderate32 miles

Rainbow Bridge Trail

A challenging hike that rewards with views of one of the largest natural bridges.

Moderate3 miles

Cathedral Wash Trail

A scenic trail through a canyon leading to the Colorado River.

Easy4 miles

Lone Rock Beach Walk

A relaxing stroll along the shorelines of Lake Powell with beach access.

Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Activity Spotlight

Hiking in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

View Full Park Guide

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area offers exceptional terrain and routes for hiking, featuring established access paths, scenic vistas, and protected wilderness territory.

Other Activities in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area:CampingWildlife ViewingFishingPaddle SportsScenic DrivesPhotography
Explore Guide →

Hiking

# Journey Through the Vast Expanse of Glen Canyon: An Adventurer's Haven Glen Canyon National Recreation Area sprawls across the majestic border between Arizona and Utah, a sun-drenched expanse where the Colorado River carves an intricate labyrinth of canyons. As you step into this vast wilderness, you're immersed in a world where towering cliffs and sprawling mesas paint a vivid portrait against the endless horizon. The very air hums with adventure, beckoning travelers of all kinds to wander its rocky paths and sunlit waters. Your journey begins with a hike into the heart of this awe-inspiring landscape. Imagine the crunch of shattered red rock underfoot as you navigate through canyons that rise like ancient fortresses on either side. The terrain is a mosaic of shifting sands and solid stone, each step uncovering echoes of a land sculpted by millennia of wind and water. Trails range from leisurely walks along winding riverbanks to rugged climbs up steep, sun-baked seabeds. Each offers a unique challenge, providing both seasoned explorers and casual hikers a chance to engage with nature's bold architecture. For those seeking a taste of high adventure, the canyon's rock formations present an array of climbing opportunities. The burnt sienna cliffs stretch decisively toward the sky, their surfaces textured with the scars of time, inviting climbers to test their mettle against the elements. While specific routes are left for you to discover, the area rewards perseverance with panoramic views that sweep across valleys and plateaus like an artist's brushstroke. Amidst the rugged beauty, you may find yourself pausing to soak in the sweeping vistas or to listen—really listen—to the voice of the wind as it whirls through the rock corridors, sharing secrets of ancient earthen mysteries. During the sunlit hours, Glen Canyon transforms into an explorer's paradise. Timing is crucial here; early morning and late afternoon hikes offer the most temperate climate and the warm glow of the sun casting dramatic shadows that dance across the canyon floor. High noon brings an intense radiance, so prepare by layering lightweight clothing and wearing a wide-brimmed hat for protection. Robust hiking boots are essential, providing stability on uneven paths, while a trusty hydration pack ensures you remain refreshed and invigorated on your trek. The watercourses of Glen Canyon are not to be overlooked, inviting aquatic adventurers to paddle along reflective expanses of Lake Powell or brave the Colorado River's life-giving currents. The whisper of water against sandstone creates a harmony that captivates the senses as you glide across tranquil surfaces or navigate swift passages. Canoeing or kayaking here is more than just travel; it's communion with the storytelling waters that have shaped these lands for millions of years. As twilight descends, the sky above Glen Canyon unfurls a blanket of stars, an invitation to camp under celestial wonders far from the distractions of city lights. As you sit by a campfire, feel the day's warmth dissipate into the cooling desert air and let the constellations speak tales of explorers past and dreams yet to be realized. In this place of grandeur, the boundary between earth and sky blurs, and each sunset asserts that the journey of discovery knows no end. Engage with the essence of Glen Canyon, where every trail, every climb, and every gust of wind is an invitation to forge connections with an ancient, living landscape. It's a place where practicality meets profound experience, challenging adventurers to not just explore, but to embrace the limitless spirit of exploration that beats at the canyon's heart.

View Hiking Guide
Explore Guide →

Camping

### Exploring the Enigmatic Wilderness: Camping in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area Immerse yourself in the breathtaking expanse of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, where the powerful interplay of water and rock creates an adventurer's paradise. As the sun spills its gilded warmth over the undulating landscape, you're beckoned to explore over a million acres woven between Arizona and Utah. It's here where the erosive artistry of the Colorado River boasts the masterpiece known as Lake Powell, a shimmering jewel that slices through the sandstone monument of time. Setting up camp along the banks of Lake Powell opens a world poised between serenity and excitement. The crisp morning air embraces you as you awaken, the soft rustle of cottonwood leaves creating a gentle backdrop to the day’s forthcoming adventures. As you sip your first brew of the day, the lake reflects a dazzling mosaic of orange and pink hues, promising a palette of memories yet to be painted. With more than 2,000 miles of shoreline to explore, advice for your journey is simple: wear sturdy footwear and remain hydrated. The terrain is a contrasting medley of sandy floors and rocky outcrops, revealing endless trails leading to ancient secrets embedded within the canyon walls. And for a truly triumphant view, a hike to one of the higher vantage points provides a sweeping perspective of azure waters snaking through raw, ancient earth. For those among us craving the vertical call, Glen Canyon offers ample rock climbing opportunities. The immense sandstone walls stand like stoic guardians, presenting challenges and triumphs alike. While individual climbing routes hold their own stories, each ascent is a dance of strategy and strength, a communion with the very bones of the earth. As the day drifts towards dusk, surrender to the enchantment of the landscape under a ceiling of stars. The campsite transforms as driftwood crackles in the fire, the air filled with a tangible sense of camaraderie. Swap tales of your day's journey with fellow adventurers—each story punctuated by laughter and the promise of more discoveries as endless as the horizon itself. Practical details blend seamlessly with this romantic backdrop. Remember, the desert climate can be as unpredictable as it is extreme; pack accordingly with layers for warmth and protection. Respect the delicate balance of this ecosystem by following Leave No Trace principles, ensuring your journey leaves only footprints and takes with it unforgettable experiences. Navigating through the labyrinthine warren of canyons and coves requires not only a keen sense of direction but also a spirit willing to embrace the unknown. Whether you travel by foot, paddle across the lake's glassy surface, or find solace on a houseboat, each moment spent in Glen Canyon is an opportunity to write your own story upon the ancient fissures of time. In Glen Canyon, every breath you take is an invitation to adventure. From its windswept ridges to the stillness of its hidden coves, it offers a playground where imagination meets reality, and where every fleeting moment becomes part of an ever-unfolding journey. Prepare well, respect nature’s ancient rhythms, and let the saga of this magnificent land etch itself into your being, a living testament to the wonders of the ever-humble explorer.

View Camping Guide
Explore Guide →

Wildlife Viewing

# Embark on an Expedition: Wildlife Wonders of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area As you step into the rugged expanse of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, the very air seems to pulse with potential encounters. Stretching across the boundaries of Arizona and Utah, this majestic playground offers a vivid tableau of the natural world, where every crag and crevice whispers the secrets of its wild inhabitants. Prepare for an adventure that awakens the senses and anchors you firmly in the present—a practical exploration as much as a journey into the untamed heart of the American Southwest. Your journey begins at the shimmering shoreline of Lake Powell, an immense reservoir that skirts the silence with the soft lapping of its turquoise waters. The lake springs to life with the chorus of birds—chirping, whistling, and calling across the waves. It's here, against this vibrant backdrop, that you may witness the striking osprey in its eternal soaring vigil, its eyes sharply trained on the waters below for a glimmer of silver scales. Moving inland, the landscape gradually morphs into a testament to the endurance of life in extremes. As you traverse the sunbaked trails, the resilient flora and secretive fauna of the desert unfold before you. Keep your eyes peeled for the agile roadrunner—an avian mariner of the desert sands—darting through the underbrush with quicksilver speed, an embodiment of survival and adaptability. The scent of creosote mingles with the dry heat as the sun casts long shadows across sandstone fins. Here, keen eyes may spot the stealthy bobcat, artfully slinking along the edge of vision, a ghost in the daytime. As night approaches, cooler temperatures coax out creatures of the dark; the horizon hums with the ululating howls of coyotes synchronizing a nocturnal symphony. Amidst these scenes, practical preparation is your compass. Start by equipping yourself with sturdy, well-fitted footwear to negotiate the variable terrain—from sandy washes to the steep sandstone cliffs that define much of the area’s dramatic topography. Hydration is not just advisable but essential; the desert can be as deceptive as it is beautiful, weaving a complex dance of sun and shade that demands respect and readiness. For those drawn to more vertical endeavors, climbing opportunities abound in the surrounding rock faces. While specific routes remain a mystery for you to discover, the areas themselves often promise a challenging blend of skill and strategy, rewarding the tenacious with sweeping vistas from every peak and perch. Time your explorations wisely. Early morning or late afternoon ventures not only help you avoid the sun’s harshest rays but also coincide with the most abundant wildlife activity. Armed with a good pair of binoculars and a fair amount of patience, your efforts can yield sightings of desert bighorn sheep, their robust forms artfully balancing on precipitous slopes, seemingly defying gravity. Glen Canyon's vast, untamed canvas offers an invitation to not just observe, but to actively participate with the landscape it presents. It’s a thrilling communion, one that beckons those eager to embrace the intricacies of its delicate yet vibrant ecosystems. Listen to the whispers of the wind carving through ancient canyons, follow the tracks of unseen inhabitants, and in this dynamic intersection of stone, sand, and sky, discover your own connection to the wild.

View Wildlife Viewing Guide
Explore Guide →

Fishing

### Embark on a Fishing Odyssey in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area The Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, sprawling majestically across the Arizona-Utah border, offers a sublime stage for those eager to weave their lines into its vast waters. This region emerges not just as a destination, but as a vibrant partner in adventure, where land and water converse in tones both bold and gentle. Here, the shimmering Lake Powell plays the protagonist, its surfaces dancing with sunlight and inviting anglers to partake in a pursuit that’s as much about mindfulness as it is about the thrill of the catch. Begin your journey on the glass-like waters of Lake Powell, a reservoir gleaming with untold secrets beneath its azure veil. As you glide across its expanse, each ripple and wave becomes a page of an unfolding story—a story where striped bass, bluegill, and walleye play their parts, eager participants in nature’s dynamic performance. The canyon walls, rising like ancient guardians of the past, cast cool shadows and offer a backdrop of geological grandeur that speaks to eons of transformation. It’s here that patience finds its place, as the fish lie in wait, daring you to outwit them in this aquatic chess game. Fishing in Glen Canyon demands both strategy and spontaneity. Stocking your tackle box with lures that mimic the local baitfish—like shad and crayfish—will enhance your chances. The lake’s depth varies dramatically, creating a diverse landscape underwater that calls for varying techniques. In the early morning, as the golden sun stretches its fingers over this aquatic theatre, topwater lures prove enticing. As the day progresses and the sun ascends, consider moving to deeper water, where jigs and deep-diving lures might just be the ticket to success. As your vessel navigates the sprawling coves and narrow passages of Glen Canyon, each turn reveals a new chapter in this fishing adventure. Lone Rock Canyon and Padre Bay are known hotspots where bountiful catches often reward the observant angler. Equally essential to your gear is a trusty fish finder, transforming the unseen beneath into a visible map of opportunity. However, don’t rely solely on technology—let the subtle hints of nature guide you: a sudden swirl on the surface, the dance of birds overhead, or the silent, yet telling, pause in the breeze. The practical considerations of such an odyssey are as crucial as the moments of elation that punctuate it. Ensure your trip is equipped with essentials: hydration to combat the arid climate, a sun hat to ward off the blazing Arizona sky, and polarized sunglasses to peer past the sunlit surface, revealing the treasures below. While the lake tempts many into its watery embrace, the arid air reminds you to stay vigilant and prepared. Glen Canyon's landscape is not merely a backdrop—it’s a living, breathing entity that interacts with each traveler, shaping tales of camaraderie and solitude alike. As the sun lowers and the shadows stretch longer, the landscape’s vibrant hues fade into twilight, offering the perfect moment of reflection. Whether you're reeling from the satisfaction of a successful catch or the tranquility of simply casting your line into the depths, this adventure—rich with memory and meaning—cements itself in the archives of your most cherished explorations. Embrace the spirit of adventure at Glen Canyon National Recreation Area—a realm where every cast is a promise, every catch a victory, and every moment is woven into the ever-flowing current of outdoor passion. As you pack your tackle box, ready your vessel, and step into the day, remember—here, at the confluence of land and water, is where the world of nature beckons with open arms, daring you to listen, to learn, and to leave with stories worth telling.

View Fishing Guide
Explore Guide →

Paddle Sports

# Riding the Waves of Tranquility: Paddle Sports in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area Picture this: a sunlit dawn breaking over the sandstone cliffs, their surfaces wearing the hues of a warming day, where every curve and crevice of the landscape seems carved by the hand of an unhurried artist. The Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, spanning the splendor of Arizona and Utah, is a place where earth and water embrace in endless conversation, creating a paradise for paddle sports enthusiasts who crave both adventure and quietude. This is a realm of contrasts—where the cool, inviting waters of Lake Powell snake through the jagged contours of the high desert, offering an aquatic playground against a backdrop of fiery red rocks. When planning your paddle adventure, the spirit of the canyon calls for early risers. Launch your kayak or stand-up paddleboard before the sun climbs high, when the morning light kisses the still waters, and the vibrant reflections weave an almost dreamlike tapestry upon its surface. Silence reigns, broken only by the gentle lapping of water against your vessel and the occasional echo of a bird's call that the cliffs seem to magnify and return. Under such conditions, the solitude felt is not just cathartic but profoundly enriching. This experience, however, is not solely about indulgence in nature's beauty. There's practicality rooted in these waters. Novices and seasoned paddlers alike are welcomed by the wide expanse of the lake, where you can challenge yourself with longer routes weaving between canyons, or quietly meander along the more sheltered waters. Those new to the paddle should consider starting from the Antelope Point Marina or Wahweap Marina, where the waters are often calmer, easing the learning curve for beginners. Beyond preparation on the water, there's wisdom to ingest regarding equipment and safety. Prioritize hydration—this is the desert, after all, where the sun is a constant companion from its high perch. Suggested attire includes light, moisture-wicking fabrics, and don't shy away from applying sturdy sunblock. Footwear should be secure yet agile enough to manage the sometimes slippery banks during embarkation and debarkation. Safety remains a stoic partner in adventure. Personal flotation devices are a non-negotiable, worn snugly to facilitate freedom of movement while ensuring peace of mind. Weather shifts rapidly in this rugged environment; wind can channel through the canyons with little warning, so it's wise to check forecasts rigorously and remain attuned to the subtle cues of nature as you paddle onward. Meals on the go, perhaps simple sandwiches or energy-rich snacks tucked safely in watertight bags, ensure you stay nourished for the journey. While sustenance is essential, it's the spontaneous connections to this vibrant ecosystem that leave lasting nourishment to the soul. Watch as curious fish nibble close to your board, or how the light plays dramatically through the canyons, each new angle offering fresh perspectives. As the day bids farewell and the sun sinks below the horizon, the landscape transforms once more, shadows deepening and a cool serenity settling over the waters. You glide back towards the shore, each stroke of the paddle carrying you with a newfound appreciation of this sacred space. In the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, adventure is every bit as much about the internal journey as the miles covered, the challenges surmounted, and the quiet moments cherished. An experience here is not just undertaken; it is lived, deeply and fully, as an indelible memory etched into the sandstone of your spirit.

View Paddle Sports Guide
Explore Guide →

Scenic Drives

# Discover the Thrill of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area: An Adventurer's Dream on Wheels Venture forth into the captivating realm of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, where earth and sky converge to craft a striking scene of natural wonders stretching across Arizona and Utah. Here, the vast desert landscape unrolls beneath the traveler’s wheels, promising more than just a drive—it beckons towards an enthralling expedition. As you embark on these scenic drives, each mile becomes an invitation to witness the grandeur of this rugged frontier. Begin your journey on the Paleontological Boneyard Loop, a 56-mile circuit that chases the meandering course of Lake Powell's azure waters. Feel the terrain shift beneath your vehicle’s tires, from smooth asphalt to dusty trails, as vistas of towering red cliffs rise like ancient sentinels. The rust-red sandstone, carved by winds of time, stands resilient, sharing whispers of the earth's layered history. Keep your senses attuned as you pass through these formations; they hide the stories of long-lost creatures etched in stone, challenging you to uncover their secrets. Next, the Hole-in-the-Rock Road beckons, a passageway once forged by intrepid Mormons over a century ago. Spanning approximately 62 miles, this undeveloped route leads adventurers through a kaleidoscope of landscapes. With each turn, the road offers glimpses of high-desert plateaus and hidden slot canyons. Keep an eye out for echoing cliffs in the distance, and if you're lucky, the desert is engulfed in blooming wildflowers during the spring, a sight that jolts color into the arid scene. For thrill-seekers yearning for more, the Burr Trail Scenic Backway offers a 66-mile odyssey of awe-inspiring views. As your journey unfolds, you'll find yourself weaving through the twisted majesty of Waterpocket Fold, the Earth’s own vibrant art of geographic upheaval. Listen to the symphony of nature as you traverse this undulating route carved through shifting shadows. Every vantage point here is a doorway to nirvana, presenting panoramic views of vast canyon depths and serrated ridgelines that defy gravity. While these drives captivate with their visual splendor, prepare adequately for this road-bound adventure. Heed the call of practicality with essential tips in tow: equip yourselves with plenty of water, as the desert sun in this region is unforgiving. Ensure your vehicle is suited for the terrain, capable of tackling off-road stretches where conditions can be rough. A detailed map or GPS is equally vital—cell service is a fickle partner in these remote locales. Equally important is your preparedness for spontaneity. These roads are the gateway to outdoor escapades, promising hiking trails that lead to hidden alcoves where echoes of ancient mysteries linger. Consider the shorter Devils Garden walk, perfect for an impromptu stop, where whimsical hoodoos play host to those curious enough to wander. And for the rock climbers, the area's challenging faces and crags provide an exhilarating test of skill and endurance, though always with the respect owed to nature’s unpredictability. Glen Canyon's drives are not merely journeys—they are odysseys filled with adventure, enlightenment, and an immersion into the raw, untamed beauty of the American Southwest. Every route opens the door to new experiences under the vast azure expanse, urging adventurers to pause, ponder, and push forward. The road is open, past and present converging under the canopy of endless sky, waiting for the footfalls of explorers carving their own path into the annals of adventure.

View Scenic Drives Guide
Explore Guide →

Photography

### Capturing the Vast Canvas of Glen Canyon: An Adventurer's Guide to Photography Expeditions The Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, stretching across the breathtaking vistas of Arizona and Utah, invites both exploration and introspection. Here, the rugged beauty of the earth unfolds in grand strokes, each view a testament to the sheer power of natural forces sculpted over millennia. As an adventure photographer, this land of stark contrasts calls for your lens, promising an experience that is both exhilarating and profoundly grounding. Picture yourself in the early morning light, where the towering canyon walls begin to glow a soft ochre, kissed by the first rays of the sun. The Colorado River snakes below, a shimmering ribbon daring you to follow its ancient path. This is not merely a location, but a challenge—a call to capture the dynamic interplay of light and shadow, earth and water. The labyrinthine expanse of Glen Canyon offers vantage points for every level of photographer, from those capturing their first breath-taking panorama on a strategic overlook to seasoned adventurers scaling limestone walls for an unprecedented angle. Begin your photographic journey at Horseshoe Bend. Here, standing on the rim, feel the quiet power of the land echo around you. The panoramic view of the river carving its way through the rock is a visual feast, rewarding patience and creative vision. Dawn and dusk are particularly magical, each offering a distinct light that transforms the scene into a painter's dream. Remember to carry a wide-angle lens to capture the immensity of this iconic landscape, and a sturdy tripod for long-exposure shots as the golden light fades to twilight. Make your way to the labyrinth of the slot canyons, where the narrow, winding corridors challenge both your composition skills and your agility. The Antelope Canyon stands as a dance of light and rock, an otherworldly formation that photographers from around the globe yearn to immortalize. Timing is crucial; the midday sun creates striking beams, slicing through the darkness and illuminating the canyon in surreal reds and golds. Use a fast lens to capture the transient play of light, and you’ll carry home images that quiver with life beyond the mundane. For those captivated by the open expanse, Lake Powell's vast azure waters are a canvas for ethereal reflections of towering sandstone buttes and spires. As the lake stretches out before you, take the opportunity to charter a boat or kayak which allows for unique angles and secluded beach scenes perfect for sunset photography. The cool colors of dawn mirrored in the still waters promise moments of tranquil beauty. Hydration is your ally here; the sun can be relentless even as the air fills with the freshness of the wide horizon. Navigating Glen Canyon requires sturdy boots, a stately hat to ward off the sun, and a well-thought-out plan to optimize shooting conditions. The terrain, at times as unforgiving as it is beautiful, means packing light but smart—extra batteries, ample memory cards, and a reliable weatherproof bag are essential. Respect the park’s regulations on drone usage and leave no trace, allowing future generations their own chance to find inspiration in these timeless landscapes. Glen Canyon National Recreation Area stands as a magnificent portal into the dynamic beauty of the American Southwest. Let your camera be the bridge between you and this vast wilderness, each shutter click a heartbeat of your own adventure. As you explore, remember that you are not just capturing images but engaging with a landscape that breathes a timeless story. Whether you seek the adrenaline-pumping challenge of scaling its mighty walls or the serene grace of its reflective waters, Glen Canyon offers a rare opportunity to entwine your own narrative with the land's unending tale.

View Photography Guide
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Entrance fees apply; America The Beautiful passes accepted.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic desert basecamps surrounding the park.

Page, Arizona, AZ, UT
Gateway Basecamp

Page, Arizona, AZ, UT

Page, Arizona is a gateway to some of the Southwest's most awe-inspiring natural wonders. Explore the famous Antelope Canyon, paddle on Lake Powell, and marvel at the Horseshoe Bend for unforgettable outdoor adventures.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Kanab, Utah, AZ, UT
Gateway Basecamp

Kanab, Utah, AZ, UT

Kanab is a picturesque base for red rock adventure, perfect for hikers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Explore stunning slots, vast landscapes, and enjoy small-town charm.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Big Water, Utah, AZ, UT
Gateway Basecamp

Big Water, Utah, AZ, UT

Big Water, Utah is a desert adventurer’s gateway to Lake Powell and Glen Canyon’s striking red rock canyons. Here, boating, hiking, off-roading, and stargazing come alive in a remote setting full of wild beauty.

Spring and FallExplore Town