As part of a road trip across Arizona, Utah and Colorado we spent a few days in northern Arizona to explore it’s magical canyons and secret beaches. Not only was this an amazing motorcycle ride we met so many interesting people along the way.
Page, Arizona is only a four-hour drive from Phoenix. With so much to explore we will definitely be visiting again to spend more time in this remote corner of Arizona. This area is incredibly scenic and offers the iconic vistas seen in many old west movies.
Things to do in the Page Arizona Area
Please note many of the touristy sites around Page are in remote areas where you have limited access to gas stations, rest rooms and ATM machines. If you go on a day trip outside of the city it is best to fill your tank and carry some cash for any parking or activities that you plan on doing. For example, if you head out to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon there is no ATM. Bring cash if you plan on parking at any of the sites along the way that charge for parking. There is a gas station in Marble Canyon to refill your tank.
Magical Antelope Slot Canyon
Antelope Slot Canyon can only be viewed with a guided tour. The canyon is divided into two parts: the upper and the lower slots. On our last trip we visited the lower slot canyon. A walk through the slot canyons is like walking through another world.
Horseshoe Bend
If you’re driving from Phoenix, Horseshoe Bend is a great stop to visit before you reach Page, Arizona. A hike to the Horseshoe Bend Overlook gives you amazing views of orange sandstone, Navajo sandstone, carved out by the Colorado River. This area is absolutely breath taking. It is a short 3/4 mile uphill walk from the dirt parking lot. If you are in the area it is worth the stop.
You are hiking in the largest sandstone layer in the United States. Wear good hiking shoes and do not stand too close to the edge. There are no barriers and sandstone is not always as sturdy as it looks. Don’t forget to bring water. There are no facilities at this spot. This area is very popular and parking is limited. There is an entrance fee. For more information visit the National Park Service on Horseshoe Bend.
Lake Powell
Lake Powell borders both Arizona and Utah. It is a popular lake for houseboats or any kind of boating for that matter.
Glen Canyon Dam Overlook
At over 700 feet tall the Glen Canyon Dam is the second highest dam next to Hoover Dam in the U.S. A visit to the Glen Canyon Dam Overlook gives the best overall view. The trail is off of Hwy 89 two-miles before the Carl Hayden Visitor Center. You can take a short hike down a dusty path and you will have some great views of the Colorado River and the Dam.
Carl B. Hayden Visitor Center
We saw the Glen Canyon Dam up close while visiting the Carl B. Hayden Visitor Center. Here you can learn more about the dam, get some close up shots and you can take a tour too.
Navajo Bridge
Two bridges the one on the left is the historic bridge and the one on the right is the new bridge. Before the historic bridge was completed in 1929 you would have to travel over 800 miles around the canyon to go to the other side of the Colorado River.
The historic Navajo bridge is now used as a pedestrian bridge. It offers a great view of Marble Canyon and the Colorado River. There is a visitor’s center here and restrooms.
Lee’s Ferry
The only place you can drive your vehicle right down to the Colorado River. Lee’s Ferry
Paria Beach
Paria Beach is the best kept secret beach in Arizona. It is absolutely beautiful here. Soft sand, cool water and stunning views.
Marble Canyon
The town of Marble Canyon is named after the canyon that can be seen at Navajo Bridge. If you need fuel for your car or lodging it can be found in the town.
Vermillion Cliffs National Monument
From the road you can see Vermillion Cliffs in the distance. If you blink you might miss the marker. The marker is after Marble Canyon, but before Jacob Lake. The Vermillion Cliffs is divided into North and South Butte and Paria Canyon. To hike or explore the area you need to have a permit. The North Butte is home to the famous “wave” formation.
North Rim of Grand Canyon
If you do not stop and see any of the sights along the way it is a three hour drive from Page to the north rim of the Grand Canyon. If you have time to take a day trip or better yet a 3-day side trip a visit to the north rim of the Grand Canyon is well worth the time. I imagine the north rim is how the south rim must have been before all of the tourists took over. While not commercialized like the south rim, there is a lodge and a couple places to eat while visiting the area.
Monument Valley
A little over two hours from Page is the iconic Monument Valley. Take a drive through the 17-mile loop to view the amazing red sandstone or take a self-guided hike on Wildcat trail.
