The City of Page, Arizona, and its gorgeous surroundings are so much more than the Grand Canyon’s outliers.
On this 30-mile journey, you’ll learn about the geology, history, and culture of this beautiful place.
You’ll see geological formations, amazing man-made wonders, and scenic vistas, and have the option to hike.
There’s so much to see and do! And if you have the time to dive deeper, there are also guided Navajo Nation tours to explore.
With 14 stops between Bitter Springs and Lake Powell, you can be sure you’ll experience the best of Page.
Because Page is in the desert and has so much to do, there are a few things you need to know before you go.
So keep reading to make the most out of your visit.
Start Planning!
Don Graham from Redlands, CA, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
You’re about to see some amazing natural beauty! Here are a few things you need to know before the tour begins.
- This journey begins in the south at Bitter Springs, because that’s where most visitors come from. Remember to turn on our narration when you get there so you don’t miss anything!
- The tour takes about 4-6 hours to complete with stops.
- If you don’t arrive with food and water, pick some up in Page before heading toward Lake Powell. You’ll never be too far from Page, but for a smooth ride, it’s a good idea to stock up when driving through.
- There are several overlooks with places to have a picnic along the way.
- Horseshoe Bend Overlook is open from sunrise to sunset and is $10 for passenger vehicles.
- The Carl Hayden Visitor Center is open Thursday through Monday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- The John Wesley Powell Museum is currently closed due to Covid-19.
- The Glen Canyon Conservancy’s Flagship Office is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Entering Wahweap Recreation Area is $30 and the pass is valid for 7 days.
- Access to Antelope Canyon and Waterholes Canyon is by Navajo tour guides only. Please book independently through a tour company.
- Remember that all Navajo Nation land is only accessible with a Navajo tour guide.
What to Expect
Quentin Dr Quentin Dr, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
To Get An Early Start
We recommend starting the tour by 8 a.m. because Horseshoe Bend fills up early!
Even better, get there at sunrise because it’s gorgeous! Starting early is also a good way to avoid the midday desert heat.
To Spend 4-6 Hours Exploring
If you’re just driving the tour it can take about an hour. But if you want to enjoy all Page has to offer, you’ll be exploring for around four hours.
But if you really take your time, it’ll be longer. We put them on the map because we really think they’re worth it.
But this is YOUR day, so feel free to explore the trails and stops you want, or move along if you feel like it!
Remember, it’s up to you how much time you want to spend at any stop. You’re behind the wheel!
To Be Active
On this tour, you’ll pass two easy, self-guided hikes, and a handful of short walks to scenic vistas. There’s also swimming in Lake Powell.
It might be chilly, but if you’re a water person, it’ll feel great. Then there’s the Navajo guided hikes to Antelope Canyon or Waterholes Canyon.
We recommend the self-guided hikes and at least one of the canyon hikes. So, be ready to get out of the car often.
To Try Local Goodies
We feel that one of the best ways to connect with culture and a community is through food.
So once you get to Page, sample some of the local eateries! Check out the Highlights in the app for details on where to eat.
There are also boutiques and gift shops that offer Navajo creations and are definitely worth a visit.
To Learn
gillfoto, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Experiencing Page and its outskirts is about so much more than sightseeing and beautiful views.
From the geological formation of the area to the cultural presence today, you’ll have an in-depth perspective of the area.
But that’s not just from our stories, Page is also home to a museum and two visitor centers.
Budgeting
- $10 per car: Horseshoe Bend
- $30 per car: Wahweap Recreation Area
- $85: Antelope Canyon
- $90/65: Water Holes Canyon
- $20/25 per person for meals
Safety Information
- Hiking Safety: Bring plenty of water & and wear sunscreen. Stay away from ledges.
- Driving Safety: Follow posted speed limits and stick to public roads.
- Navajo Nation Safety: No drone flying, alcohol, spreading of cremated remains, or littering. It is illegal to access the land without a Navajo guide.
- Swimming Safety: There are no lifeguards around Lake Powell.
- Pet Safety: Leashed pets are allowed only on public roadways and in established campgrounds. They are not permitted on other trails, backcountry routes, or in off-trail areas.
Start Packing!
Here’s our packing list. But remember, what you take depends on the activities you plan to do for the day.
- Sneakers
- Hiking Clothes
- Water Bottle
- Bug Spray
- Sunscreen
- Bathing Suit
- Towel
- Sunglasses and hat
- Snacks
- Cash
- Car charger *Very Important*
- Phone Mount
- First Aid Kit
Shaka Guide’s Grand Canyon East Tour - Page By the Numbers
Let us break it down for you! This tour features:
- 1 Quaint Town
- 1 Hanging Garden
- 1 Beautiful Lake
- 2 Hikes
- 2 Slot Canyons
- 2 Visitors Centers
- 1 Museum
- 7 Scenic Spots
- 1 Day of Fun
Leave No Trace
When you visit a National Recreation Area, you’ll eventually come across the phrase “leave no trace.”
It is important to leave an area exactly as you found it. We can enjoy Glen Canyon National Recreation Area because of efforts to preserve its natural beauty so let’s do our part.
At Shaka Guide, we promote ethical and responsible tourism.
Please, pick up your trash, respect plant and animal life, and keep yourself safe, too.
Leave no trace of your visit behind so future generations can continue to enjoy these wonderful places.
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We hope that we’ve given you all the information you need to make the most of your day. Your vacation is extremely important to us so if you have any questions feel free to reach out at aloha@shakaguide.com.
For more detailed information to help you plan, check out our Horseshoe Bend and Lake Powell Itinerary.
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