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Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

calendar_monthApr–May, Sep–Octbest time schedule3 daysplan for child_careYeswith kids confirmation_number~$12entry
Glen Canyon National Recreation AreaYour own route Plan a trip here →
Park Closure · Launch Ramp Updates +2 expand_more

Launch Ramp Updates: Lake level changes will influence the functionality of all launch ramps. Find updated status of all launch ramps at the link. Details open_in_new

Lake Powell Recreational Water Advisory: Any time that you do recreational activities (swimming, water skiing, making sand castles, etc.) on the beaches or in the waters of Lake Powell you are strongly encouraged to follow basic hygiene practices. A number of conditions can cause potential water quality issues on Lake P Details open_in_new

Lees Ferry Campground Partial Closure: The upper loop of the Lees Ferry Campground is closed for renovations. Large equipment will be paving at the Lees Ferry campground. Do not enter construction area. Details open_in_new

park Source: US National Park Service, refreshed several times a day.

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is a vast expanse of red rock canyons and the expansive Lake Powell, created by the Glen Canyon Dam. Travelers come to experience the unique landscape, which features striking contrasts between the blue waters of the lake and the surrounding desert terrain.

In pictures

Green river winds through high cliffs.
Green river winds through high cliffs.

Things to do

Scramble down Cathedral Wash Trail
3-4 Hours · Winter/Spring

Follow Cathedral Wash trail as it climbs down to meet the Colorado River on its sandy bank. The 3 miles (4.8 k...

From Your Boat To The Bridge
2-8 Hours · Winter/Spring

There is one designated trail within the boundaries of Rainbow Bridge National Monument. It runs the length of...

Driving the Burr Trail
1-14 Days · Winter/Spring

Drive the scenic Burr Trail from Glen Canyon's Bullfrog district, along the bottom of Capitol Reef, through Gr...

Swimming in Lake Powell
Spring/Summer

Swimming is a popular activity at Lake Powell, especially in the summer when water temperatures can surpass 80...

Day Trip or Backpack Hike to Coyote Gulch
1-14 Days · Winter/Spring

Open year-round but most popular in Spring and Fall, Coyote Gulch is a tributary of the Escalante River with s...

Off Road Vehicles in Glen Canyon
Winter/Spring

Off-road vehicle use is allowed in the park only on National Park Service-designated ORV routes and areas, del...

Driving to Alstrom Point
4-48 Hours · Winter/Spring

Drive the semi-improved roads to Alstrom Point, in the southwest region of Glen Canyon National recreation Are...

Contemplate Your Place in the Landscape At The Big Map
1-120 Minutes · Winter/Spring

The Glen Canyon and Surrounding Area Relief Map sits in a place of honor at the Powell Museum & Archives next...

Driving the Hole in the Rock Road
1-14 Days · Winter/Spring

The Hole-in-the-Rock road is an historic pioneer trail turned path to adventure. This 62 mile (100 km) one-way...

Lonely Dell Ranch Historic Site
1-8 Hours · Winter/Spring

Hidden between the shade of trees near the muddy Paria River sits Lonely Dell Ranch. This historic site was on...

Lake Powell Shoreline Primitive Camping
1-14 Days · Winter/Spring

"Backcountry" Shoreline camping on Lake Powell can range from toughing out the desert winter from your kayak t...

Take a stroll to Horseshoe Bend Overlook
1-8 Hours · Winter/Spring

Below the rim, the Colorado River makes a wide sweep around a sandstone escarpment. Here at Horseshoe Bend, th...

info_outlinePracticalexpand_more
Since: 1964
Open: 24 hours, year-round
Price: Per Person $15, Motorcycle $25, Private Vehicle $30

About Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

Visitors often engage in activities like boating, fishing, and hiking. The area is also home to geological wonders such as Rainbow Bridge National Monument and Reflection Canyon. However, the remote location means that amenities can be limited, so planning ahead is essential.

Things to know

Expect long wait times during peak season, especially on weekends.
Entrance fees are required for access to the park.
Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as shade is scarce.
Dress in layers, as temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day.

Good to know

Accessibility: limited accessibility, some areas require hiking
Opening hours: 24 hours, year-round
Phone: 9286086200
Price: ~$12
Website: www.nps.gov

Photo: NPS Photo / T Sigmon