Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
Best lakes in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area are primarily formed by the Colorado River, creating a vast reservoir system within a canyon landscape. This area is characterized by its extensive waterways, sandstone formations, and numerous coves. It serves as a significant recreational hub, offering access to water-based activities and scenic viewpoints. The region's geography includes deep canyons and wide expanses of water, shaped by both natural processes and human engineering.
Last updated: September 29, 2026
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Popular around Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
End of March or beginning of April pleasant temperatures, approx. 25°C.
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From this elevated spot along Rimview Trail, you can catch some views of Lake Powell in the distance.
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beautiful hotel complex directly on Lake Powell
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This spot where the Escalante River and Lake Powell meet is a sight to be seen. The bright blue water in contrast with the starkly red rock can take your breath away, that is if the hike up didn't already. This spot is a common place for people to pitch a tent if they decide to make this into a multiday hike.
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Beautiful trail with great views of Lake Powell and the Colorado River and surrounding countryside, near Page
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Popular campground at the shores of Lake Powell and Wahweap Bay with a huge rock in the middle of the lake. It has no designated campsites, you just pick your spot. You can hike along the beach, swim or paddle in the warm waves of the artifical lake right at the borders between Arizona and Utah. You will find some primitive outhouse at the beach and more advanced restrooms at the road. If possible, avoid weekends and holidays since the crowds will appear. To stay a night at the campground, you will have to pay of fee. More information: https://www.nps.gov/glca/planyourvisit/camping.htm
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Visitors frequently enjoy the scenic views from Rimview Trail, which offers expansive vistas of Lake Powell and the Colorado River. Another highly regarded spot is Reflection Canyon Overlook, known for where the Escalante River meets Lake Powell, though it requires good route-finding skills to reach. For a more distant perspective, the View of Lake Powell along Rimview Trail is also popular.
Yes, Lone Rock Campground is a popular family-friendly spot on the shores of Lake Powell and Wahweap Bay. It offers opportunities for hiking along the beach, swimming, and paddling. Additionally, Bridge Creek Boat Docks provide access for boat tours, which can be a great family activity to reach destinations like Rainbow Bridge.
The area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, ranging from easy to difficult, such as Cathedral Wash Trail or Coyote Gulch Trail. For runners, there are also dedicated running trails, including the Rimview Trail and various loops from Page. Water-based activities like swimming, paddling, and boating are also very popular on Lake Powell.
Trail difficulties vary. For instance, the hike to Reflection Canyon Overlook is considered challenging, involving lots of up and down over sandstone rocks and requiring good route-finding skills. The Rimview Trail is generally rated as intermediate. There are also easy hikes available, such as Cathedral Wash Trail or Skylight Arch Trail.
Yes, Lone Rock Campground is a well-known option located directly on the shores of Lake Powell. It operates on a 'pick your spot' basis rather than having designated campsites. It provides primitive outhouses and more advanced restrooms nearby. A fee is required for overnight stays.
Excellent viewpoints include the Rimview Trail, which offers broad views of Lake Powell and the Colorado River. An elevated spot along this trail, specifically named View of Lake Powell, provides distant but impressive vistas. For a unique perspective where two waterways meet, the Reflection Canyon Overlook is unparalleled.
The most common way to reach Rainbow Bridge National Monument is by boat. You can take a boat tour or rent a boat from marinas near Page, Arizona, accessing the monument via the Bridge Creek Boat Docks.
The lakes are primarily large reservoirs formed by the Colorado River, set within a dramatic canyon landscape. They are characterized by extensive waterways, striking sandstone formations, and numerous coves. The contrast between the bright blue water and the red rock canyons is a defining feature of the area.
Visitors consistently praise the stunning views of Lake Powell and the Colorado River, especially from trails like the Rimview Trail. The unique geological formations, the opportunity for water-based activities, and the serene beauty of spots like Reflection Canyon Overlook are also highly valued.
When visiting Lone Rock Campground, it's advisable to avoid weekends and holidays if you prefer fewer crowds, as it's a very popular spot. While there are primitive outhouses on the beach, more advanced restrooms are available near the road. Remember that a fee is required for overnight stays.
The warmer months, typically late spring through early fall, are ideal for water-based activities like swimming, paddling, and boating on Lake Powell. During these times, the water is warm, and the weather is generally sunny. However, popular spots like Lone Rock Campground can get crowded on weekends and holidays.


Still not found your perfect lake in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.