Horseshoe Bend: A Breathtaking Colorado River Vista
Located near the town of Page, Arizona, Horseshoe Bend is a mesmerizing geological wonder that showcases the incredible forces of nature at work. This iconic landmark is a horseshoe-shaped incised meander carved out by the mighty Colorado River over millions of years. As you stand at the overlook, which is about a 1,000-foot drop, you’re treated to a breathtaking panoramic view of the Colorado River winding its way through the red-hued sandstone canyon.
In 2018, a fenced overlook area was created for viewing safety. However, visitors who want to venture away from the fenced partition are asked to exercise caution; the sandstone edges of the terrain can be unstable causing slides or breaks underfoot.
The expanded parking lot was completed in early June 2019. Visitors now have a beautiful, safe parking area with a separate lot for larger RV’s. Plenty of handicap-assessable parking is located near the trailhead. Commercial vans and buses have a parking section which allows for easy-in-and-out angled parking.
Distance: 1.5 Miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 137 Feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Getting There
To get to the Horseshoe Bend parking lot from Page, Arizona, simply head southeast on Highway 89 for approximately 5 miles until you spot the well-marked turnoff.
There is absolutely no parking anywhere along Hwy 89, as this is a 65 mph highway. Vehicles parked along the highway will be ticketed and towed. The City of Page has passed an emergency ordinance prohibiting passenger drop-offs and pickups at the Horseshoe Bend entrance or along the Highway 89 corridor.
The Trail
The trail to the overlook is a 1.5-mile round trip over an Architectural Barriers Act (ABA) compliant trail that is ideal for the whole family and welcomes wheelchairs, strollers, and leashed dogs. The relatively flat, packed dirt trail takes about 20 minutes to hike each way, with a section of the overlook fenced for safety.
Along the way, there are two shade structures, but none at the overlook itself. Keep in mind that there is little shade along the Horseshoe Bend Trail, so be sure to bring plenty of water, wear sturdy footwear, and wear sunscreen. Also, be aware that much of the rim remains exposed, so watch your footing and keep track of children.
NO drones, bikes, skateboards, or motorized vehicles are allowed on the trail.
Be Prepared
In the desert, preparation is crucial. Ensure you bring ample water, sunscreen, and protective clothing, and wear sturdy hiking or walking shoes. Stay informed about the weather and exercise good judgment, as temperatures can exceed 100°F (37°C) during summer, with minimal shade available. To stay safe, avoid hiking during the hottest part of the day. Additionally, be mindful of your dog’s feet, as the ground can be hot enough to cause burns. Never leave animals inside vehicles.
Call 911 if you have an emergency. Cashiers are not EMTs.
1,422,000+ visitors in 2023
What People Say
Parking & Fees
Personal Vehicles:
Motorcycles: $5
Passenger Vehicles (includes any car, truck, or RV): $10
Commercial Vehicles:
Van/Bus up to 14 person capacity: $35
Van/Bus 15 to 35 person capacity: $70
Bus over 35 person capacity: $140
NO DISCOUNTS • NO REFUNDS
We DO NOT accept National Park/America the Beautiful Passes
This is not a Navajo Tribal Park
Cash only on busy weekends and holidays
Popular Times
Open from Sunrise to Sunset (times may vary)
Thank you for visiting Horseshoe Bend
Thank you for visiting Horseshoe Bend, one of the most iconic and photographed landmarks in the world. We hope you had an unforgettable experience exploring its breathtaking views. To ensure this natural wonder remains pristine for future generations, please help protect it by picking up all trash and disposing of it accordingly. Your efforts contribute to preserving the beauty and integrity of this remarkable site.
Trip Planning
For those looking to explore more, our visitor’s guide to Page, Arizona offers a wealth of information on local attractions, dining, and accommodations. Discover hidden gems, plan your itinerary, and make the most of your visit to this vibrant gateway to the natural wonders of the American Southwest.