Arizona is in no short supply of scenic places, but one of the most stunning destinations that belongs on every traveler’s bucket list is the town of Page. Best known for its iconic canyons, red rock formations, and Native American heritage, this small town packs a big punch in Northern Arizona. Not only are the landscapes dramatic, but there are some great restaurants and plenty of opportunities for adventure. Here are some of the best things to see, do, and experience when you visit Page.
The Lookout at Horseshoe Bend
Horseshoe Bend is an iconic landmark in Page and a must-see sight when you visit this area. Here you can stand on the edge of the lookout point and soak up the impressive views. You may see boats or kayaks down below but be advised that there are limited guard rails on the edges so you’ll need to be cautious and not get too close to the steep drop-offs. Horseshoe Bend is right off of U.S. Highway 89, and it’s about a 1.5-mile walk round-trip to get to the main overlook from the parking lot.
Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon
Antelope Canyon is one of the most photogenic canyons in the world and is a landscape photographer’s dream destination. To visit this canyon, you’ll need to take a guided tour with a Navajo guide. You can tour the upper and lower canyons here to see the light beams and marvel at the wonders of nature. If possible, plan your tour of the Upper Antelope around noon between the spring and fall because that’s when the sun creates the most magical light beams. The Upper Canyon is the most-visited one because it’s easy to navigate and doesn’t require climbing. However, the Lower Antelope Canyon involves some stairs and ladders, providing a more adventurous and often uncrowded experience. There are several tour options to choose from with various guides, and reservations are required or highly recommended depending on the season.
Rafting on the Colorado River
The Colorado River is a great place to take a rafting trip, and there are local guide companies that will take you out onto the water. Half-day and full-day rafting options are available depending on how much time you have to spend here and your level of adventure. Rafting trips often pass by petroglyphs that date back to ancient times, various forms of wildlife, and by Horseshoe Bend. The water tends to be quite chilly, but a few splashes feel pretty good on a hot and sunny Arizona day. Wilderness Raft Adventures is a local guide company that offers rafting trips. Float trips here are family-friendly, start from Page, and travel on smooth water to see Vermilion Cliffs, orchards, historic structures, and more.
Boating on Lake Powell
Another fun way to get active on the water around the town of Page is to rent a boat on Lake Powell. The Antelope Point Marina is a lovely place to take in views of the lake, which is the second-largest man-made lake in the country. You can take a guided boat tour from Wahweap Marina at Lake Powell Resort to enjoy the scenery and maybe even dinner on-board. Canyon Adventure Boat Tour makes the journey to the edge of the Lake Powell Canyons by boat, and tours that reach the shoreline of Rainbow Bridge are also offered. The Glen Canyon National Recreation Area stretches from Arizona to Utah and has public boat launch ramps at a few other sites as well. Park concessionaires also rent out boats at Antelope Point Marina and Lake Powell Resorts and Marinas.
Rainbow Bridge National Monument
Although Rainbow Bridge National Monument is a bit of a drive from Page and over the Utah border, it’s well worth the trip to see this tall natural bridge. The monument is near Lake Powell and accessible by hiking in on one of two trails or by boat. It is necessary to contact Navajo Parks to obtain a permit to hike on Tribal Lands. Since both trails are subject to flash floods, avoid this day trip if heavy rain is in the forecast. Also, be aware that there are very few trail signs and that the trails are recommended for moderately experienced hikers.
Glen Canyon Dam
The Glen Canyon Dam created the famous Lake Powell and assists the region with water storage and electric power. On the northern side of the Glen Canyon Bridge, you can stop by the Carl B. Hayden Visitor Center to learn more about the dam and what it does. Inside you’ll find interactive exhibits and staff members that can suggest options of what to see and do nearby. The Dam is about 10 minutes from Page by car, and guided tours are offered as well.
Food and Entertainment at Into the Grand
More than just a local eatery, Into the Grand is a cultural destination that highlights the traditions of Native American dance and food. This is a family-run restaurant that’s friendly and inviting, so stop by to learn about Navajo culture and eat some delicious food, like traditional Navajo tacos and sweet red chili chicken. The restaurant has a small menu and over two hours of entertainment.
Big John's Texas BBQ
Another great place to grab a meal in Page is Big John’s Texas BBQ. This is a restaurant that used to be an old gas station and celebrates authentic and good old-fashioned Texas cuisine right here in Northern Arizona. All of the meat here is slow-smoked on oak and mesquite wood for several hours. It serves barbecue favorites like beef brisket, pulled pork, baby back ribs, beans, coleslaw, and potato salad.
