Page, Arizona, hasn’t always been a destination. It has long been a place to gas up and stock up on food while heading to Lake Powell, or used as a pit stop between Utah and Arizona.
However, over the years, more and more people are discovering the beauty surrounding Page. It has become a destination in its own right, as people set off to explore all that the area has to offer.
Keep reading to discover the best places to stay, play, and eat in Page, Arizona. It’s the perfect spot to spend a few days on a Southwest road trip!
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A Complete Travel Guide to Page, Arizona
Table of Contents
- Best Places to Stay in Page
- Best Things to Do in Page
- Antelope Ridge Adventure Park Via Ferrata
- Lower Antelope Canyon Tour
- Waterhole Canyon
- Shell Sand Cave
- Horseshoe Bend
- Glen Canyon Float Trip
- Dam Overlook Trail
- Carl Hayden Visitor Center & Glen Canyon Dam
- Boating at Lake Powell
- Wahweap Overlook
- Powell Museum
- Lower Cathedral Wash Trail
- Bike the Rimview Trail
- Best Places to Eat in Page
Best Places to Stay in Page
Page Lake Powell Campground
If you’re looking for an affordable place to stay, Page Lake Powell Campground is a good option.
The location is great and they offer a variety of accommodations, including RV sites, tent sites, tiny homes, and Conestoga glamping wagons.
We stayed in a tiny home, and it was cute, clean, and reasonably priced. It has a queen bed with a twin mattress on the floor of the loft. The loft is spacious enough that you could bring extra air mattresses and stick a few more kids up there.
Our only complaint is that the tiny homes do share a wall with another unit, and it is thin enough that you can hear everything going on next door.
The campground has an indoor pool, a playground, and laundry facilities.
Lake Powell Resort
The Lake Powell Resort is the best place to stay near Lake Powell. It is located near the Wahweap Marina and has beautiful views over the lake.
It has a decent on-site restaurant and nice outdoor pools with firepits. The only downside is that the rooms could use some updating, and the prices are high during peak season.
Hampton Inn & Suites
There are a few different chain hotels in Page. We have stayed at the Hampton Inn & Suites several times and have always had a great experience.
The rooms are clean, and we love that they have suites large enough for our family of six. They offer rooms with two queens, a pull-out sofa, and the option for a rollaway bed.
The hotel is also centrally located in town near shopping and restaurants.
Roam Horeshoe Bend
Roam America in Page offers an upscale campground experience.
The amenities are top-notch with a modern clubhouse, swimming pool, and bathhouse. You can book an RV site, a tent camping site, or a cabin.
The location is also great, only minutes from the top attractions in Page.
Best Things to Do in Page
Antelope Ridge Adventure Park Via Ferrata
The world’s first slot canyon via ferrata is found right here in Page at Antelope Ridge Adventure Park.
We’ve been living and exploring in Arizona for over 20 years, and this is hands-down one of the coolest things we’ve done in this state!
After checking in and gearing up, we took a short walk and began our adventure by rappelling down into the canyon.
We made our way to the 2nd rappel that took us through a cool little arch before reaching the entrance of the slot canyon.
From this point, we made our way through the narrow folds of the canyon along the via ferrata route. Via ferrata is Italian for “iron path” and consists of a series of iron rungs that you use to climb along the narrow walls of the slot canyon.
We were so high above the canyon floor, it’s incredible to experience it from this perspective!
This canyon connects to the famous Lower and Upper Antelope Canyon here in Page. If you’ve ever taken a tour of that canyon, you know it’s incredibly beautiful, but also incredibly crowded. This is such a cool way to experience the beauty without the crowds!
We kept making our way further down into the canyon, and it kept getting more beautiful! Our guide said, “My neck always hurts by the end of this because I’m always looking all over the place”. I have to agree, there’s just so much beauty in every direction!
We made it to the floor of the canyon, and it’s so deep that it’s pitch black in some spots. At the narrowest point, the walls are only 12 inches apart. I’m extremely claustrophobic, but was able to handle it by taking deep breaths and moving quickly through the narrowest portions. I’m glad I faced my fear and didn’t let it stop me from experiencing this!
At the bottom of the canyon, we even spotted a nest belonging to a family of resident great horned owls. There was a baby in the nest that was so adorable!
After going through the slot canyon, we made our way to the third and final rappel. This is also the tallest at around 70 feet.
But the adventure’s not over yet. To exit the canyon, you’ll need to climb your way out! Our arms were a little tired by the end, but it was so worth it!
The tour lasts about 2 hours. Each tour has a ratio of 4-5 people per guide, so it felt like we had the entire canyon to ourselves.
For another fun adventure, Antelope Ridge Adventure Park is also adding a zipline tour where you’ll get to soar high above the slot canyon.
If you love this experience, you’ll also love the Ouray via ferrata in Colorado! For more information, see our guide, 6 Things to Do in Ouray, Colorado.
Lower Antelope Canyon Tour
We LOVED the Antelope Canyon via ferrata tour, but you also need to experience the iconic Lower Antelope Canyon tour.
I’m 99% sure you’ve seen photos of Antelope Canyon. The one with light filtering through pink-swirled sandstone canyon walls? Yep, that’s the one!
If you want to access the canyon, you must go on a guided tour. We booked a tour with Ken’s Tours to the Lower Antelope Canyon, and it was incredible.
Be sure to check our guide, What You Should Know Before Visiting Antelope Canyon for all the details.
There are two canyon tours to choose from, Lower Antelope Canyon and Upper Antelope Canyon. The lower canyon lets more light in as the opening above is larger.
The upper one has a narrower opening, so it is a little darker. However, the narrow opening in the upper canyon allows for those stunning pillars of light that you often see in photos.
This is one of the most popular tours in all of the Southwest, and spots fill up fast, so be sure to make your reservations early. (Tip: the last tour of the day is usually the least crowded.)
Waterhole Canyon
If you want to experience the beauty of the red sand slot canyon without the crowds, Waterhole Canyon may be just what you’re looking for.
This is a lesser-known tour, but a great alternative to Antelope Canyon. Although it is not part of Antelope Canyon, it still boasts many of the same formations in the slot canyon.
The tour groups are much smaller so you get a more intimate experience than the Antelope Canyon tour.
Another alternative is Canyon X, it is similar to Lower Antelope, but is less crowded.
Shell Sand Cave
The Shell Sand Cave has become less of a hidden gem over the past few years, but it is still worth a quick stop!
To find this cave, go to the Big Lake Trading Post & Shell Gas Station at the intersection of Coppermine Road and Highway 98.
From the front of the station, you’ll park at the parking lot in the far back right corner. There is a short sandy trail that leads to a wind cave that reminds me of the Great Chamber in Kanab.
The Shell Cave Trail is 0.2 miles out and back and takes only about 5 minutes. Once you reach the cave, it doesn’t look like much from the front.
However, the perspective from the back of the cave is so cool!
Horseshoe Bend
I remember visiting Horseshoe Bend years ago when it was a relatively unknown destination that was free to visit. It was located 3/4 mile down a dusty trail at an unassuming parking lot on the side of the road.
That is no longer the case, but this spot is popular for good reason! The beauty and wonder of Horseshoe Bend deserve to be brought into the spotlight.
Despite being a popular tourist attraction, it is still worth a stop.
Today, guests will find a large paved parking lot, restrooms, pay booths, a well-maintained trail, and a viewing deck.
Horseshoe Bend lies within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, but the parking lot belongs to the city of Page. Unfortunately, that means that National Park passes are not valid. See the National Park Service page for updated fees and information.
The thing about Horseshoe Bend is that it is crazy beautiful but also crazy scary. Those sheer drop-offs are no joke.
Mothers everywhere breathed a collective sigh of relief when the viewing deck was installed in 2019! There are still plenty of exposed cliffs, so just be sure to use caution, especially with little ones.
The trail is also exposed with no shade, so be sure to bring plenty of water, especially in the summer months. It is not a difficult hike, but the gradual incline back to the parking lot can be challenging for some during the peak of summer.
Glen Canyon Float Trip
If you want to experience an alternative view of Horseshoe Bend from the water, consider taking a guided Float Trip with Wilderness River Adventures.
The tour departs from Page, where you’ll drive through the 2-mile-long Glen Canyon Dam Access Tunnel.
Once you reach Lee’s Ferry, you’ll board the pontoon and begin your scenic trip up the Colorado River. You’ll stop at Petroglyph Beach, where you can view ancient petroglyphs.
The tour continues up the river until you find yourself deep in the shade of the surreally steep canyon walls at Horseshoe Bend. You’ll then continue to the base of the Glen Canyon Dam before returning.
The journey is filled with insightful stories and historical facts from the knowledgeable guide.
Half and full-day excursions are available for anyone 4 years old and up. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during the summer months.
Dam Overlook Trail
The Dam Overlook Trail offers another chance to view the dramatic cliffs cut by the Colorado River.
This lesser-known viewpoint is easy to access and is less crowded. It is located in town, right off of Scenic View Road, just north of Denny’s.
You’ll find a small parking lot (you may have to wait for a spot during peak season) and a short 80-yard trail to the viewpoint.
From here, you’ll see a beautiful view of the Glen Canyon Dam and the Colorado River bend. There are safety rails at the viewpoint, and also a shaded picnic area.
Carl Hayden Visitor Center & Glen Canyon Dam
The Carl Hayden Visitor Center and Glen Canyon Dam tour were both more fascinating than we had anticipated and is worth a stop.
The visitor center is filled with interesting facts and interactive exhibits of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. You’ll also find a large relief map that puts into perspective just how large Lake Powell is.
The floor-to-ceiling windows also offer an impressive view of the dam, bridge, and Lake Powell.
My favorite part was the film depicting the construction of the dam. It was intriguing to see exactly what a large-scale construction project of this magnitude entailed. It truly was a remarkable architectural feat.
We learned some interesting facts, like did you know that the amount of concrete used in the construction of the dam is enough to build a 4-lane freeway from Phoenix to Chicago?! Before and during the bridge construction, they also had to drive 200 miles to reach the other side!
Admission is free, and I highly recommend a stop. While you’re there, I also recommend taking a tour of the dam.
Tickets are reasonably priced and the tour lasts about 45 minutes. You’ll take an elevator to the base of the dam, where you’ll see how the dam works, ask questions, and learn all about the history from an informative guide.
Boating at Lake Powell
It’s no secret that Lake Powell is the main draw to the area. With its deep blue waters and towering red rock canyon walls, it’s no wonder that Lake Powell is one of the world’s premier boating destinations.
Even if you don’t own a boat and are just traveling through, there are many ways to experience Lake Powell. Boat rentals are available, as well as guided tours.
You can also rent kayaks, paddleboards, or jet skis to explore the narrow passageways that Lake Powell is known for.
Labyrinth Canyon and Antelope Canyon are two of our favorites. You’ll follow the water until it leads to dry ground, where you can then explore the slot canyons on foot.
I have put together a complete First Time Guide to Lake Powell with some helpful information so you can make the most of your time there!
You might also be interested in our guide, 9 Lake Powell Secret Spots.
Wahweap Overlook
You’ll find the turn-off for the Wahweap Overlook along Hwy 89 just north of the Glen Canyon Dam.
The road will take you up a hill to a plateau overlooking Wahweap Marina and the placid waters of Lake Powell.
There is a dirt parking lot at the top of the hill and a 360-degree vantage point.
Alternatively, for one of the most photogenic views of Lake Powell, head to Alstrom Point.
It is located about an hour past the Big Water Visitor Center. The road is very rough and you’ll need a high clearance vehicle with 4WD to reach this point.
Powell Museum
This free museum in Page may be small, but it is packed with plenty of information!
You’ll learn about John Wesley Powell and his early explorations. His expeditions along the Colorado River uncovered priceless discoveries and left a lasting legacy.
The museum houses some of Powell’s personal belongings, as well as historical artifacts, memorabilia, and fossils found in the area.
The exhibits are well-curated and highly informative. You’ll also find a gift shop and information center on-site.
This is a great place to stop when you first arrive at Page. The staff at the information desk are very helpful and can offer some great tips and recommendations for your stay.
Lower Cathedral Wash Trail
The Lower Cathedral Wash trailhead is located near Lee’s Ferry, about 45 minutes south of Page.
The 3.3-mile out-and-back trail follows along a dry wash and weaves through spectacular geological formations.
There are some areas where you’ll need to scramble up rocks, resulting in a “difficult” rating. It is manageable and makes the trail more fun and interesting, just use caution while climbing over the rocks.
The trail can be hard to follow at times, you’ll want to upgrade to AllTrails Pro so that you can download the map to use offline.
The area is also prone to flash flooding, so do not attempt the hike if there is rain in the forecast.
The trail ends on the bank of the Colorado River, where you can take a dip to cool off or just soak in the views.
A few more recommended hiking trails in Page:
- Skylight Arch: This 2-mile out-and-back trail leads to a cool rock arch. The road to the trailhead is rough, so you’ll need a high-clearance 4WD vehicle. The trail is fairly easy, but not well marked, so be sure to upgrade to AllTrails Pro so that you can download the map to use offline.
- The New Wave Trail: If you haven’t had any luck getting permits to hike the Wave, the New Wave Trail in Page is a good alternative. This 1.3-mile loop trail offers a similar landscape to the famous Wave Trail. The Beehive Trail also has a similar landscape.
- Hanging Gardens: This easy 1.4-mile out-and-back trail leads to a natural spring and a hanging garden growing on the red cliffs. It’s a little oasis in the desert!
Bike the Rimview Trail
The world-class Rimview Trail is a 10-mile urban loop trail boasting spectacular views.
The best viewpoints are at the eastern and southern portions of the trail as it looks out across the Navajo Reservation and Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. You can even spot Horseshoe Bend and the dam from the trail.
The trail is open to hikers, joggers, bikers, and even the local high school cross-country team.
The trail has little elevation change and primarily consists of slick rock and red sand. There are various points to enter or exit the trail in town, so you can tailor the length to your needs.
The best way to enjoy the trail is by bike so that you can cover the most distance in a short amount of time. Page Bike Repair is the best place to rent bikes in town.
Best Places to Eat in Page
Sunset 89
Sunset 89 lives up to its name and is one of the best spots to watch the sunset in Page.
We love the outdoor seating area with strands of lights and views of Lake Powell and the surrounding mountains.
They serve Asian Fusion dishes that are packed with flavor.
The food is pretty good, but a little pricey. It’s worth going here at least once for the outdoor ambiance alone!
BirdHouse
BirdHouse is one of our favorite places to go as a family. They serve the best fried chicken around, and we love the outdoor seating and casual atmosphere.
The honey butter wings are their specialty, and they are heavenly when dipped in their signature buttermilk ranch dip. We also love the classic southern side dishes like mac & cheese, and mashed potatoes & gravy.
You can order family meals or individual plates, and we always leave stuffed and happy!
Ranch House Grille
Ranch House Grille is the place to go for hearty, homestyle comfort dishes.
They also have a location in the Phoenix Valley and are known for having the best Chicken Fried Steak in Arizona, according to Phoenix New Times.
The menu is extensive with pancakes, omelettes, burritos, sandwiches, salads, fajitas, and more! They also have a great kid’s menu.
We shared several different dishes and liked everything that we ordered!
El Tapatio Mexican Restaurant
The food at El Tapatio is delicious, and the atmosphere is colorful, vibrant, and fun. Dining here feels like a fiesta!
The portions are also huge! The prices seemed a little high when looking at the menu. However, once they brought the food out, we quickly realized that there was enough food that you could easily share a dish.
If you order the fajitas, they light the dish on fire when they bring it to your table. The kids loved it!
A few more of the best places to eat in Page
- Big John’s Texas BBQ: Incredible smoked meat, and a fun atmosphere with live music and an outdoor patio.
- Gone West Family Restaurant: For a unique dining experience, make reservations at Gone West Family Restaurant, where you’ll enjoy a live music show while eating dinner.
- Red Heritage: This Native American restaurant also offers a fantastic dinner and a show. Enjoy homemade Navajo tacos while watching a cultural performance.
- RD’s Drive-In: If you’re looking for something quick, this fast food joint has an extensive menu that is sure to please every tastebud!
- Lake Powell Italian Deli: This spot is a bit of hidden gem. You wouldn’t expect to find a good Italian deli in Page, but the sandwiches and pastries are amazing!
I hope this guide will help as you plan your trip to Page, and that you fall in love with the area just like we have!
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