AdventureApril 2026

Unforgettable Experiences: What to Do at Lake Powell

Endless adventure awaits at Lake Powell! Here are a few of our favorite activities.

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Imagine a place where stunning sunsets paint the sky, crystal-clear waters beckon for adventure, and breathtaking landscapes inspire awe — welcome to Lake Powell!

This stunning reservoir, straddling the border of Utah and Arizona, offers a dazzling array of activities set against a backdrop of dramatic rock formations and rich history.

Things to Do at Lake Powell

Lake Powell is a paradise for both relaxation enthusiasts and thrill-seekers. Nestled in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, it offers over 2,000 miles of stunning sandstone shoreline and vibrant blue waters.

Water Sports

Boasting expansive and calm waters, this Southern Utah gem is perfect for adrenaline-pumping activities like boating, skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing.

Lake Powell features a variety of marinas, including beloved spots like Wahweap and Bullfrog. These marinas offer an extensive selection of watercraft rentals, from jet skis and powerboats to kayaks and pontoon boats.

Popular water activities:

  • Boating
  • Jet Skiing
  • Wakeboarding
  • Kayaking
  • Fishing

Camping

Camping at Lake Powell is an exciting adventure, offering a blend of natural beauty and convenience.

  • Primitive Camping: Unleash your wild side with shoreline camping at no cost. Practice "leave no trace" principles.
  • Developed Campsites: Find comfort in various spots around Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.
  • RV Parks: Experience the convenience of fully-equipped parks at marinas.

While campsites abound, none exist within the magical bounds of Rainbow Bridge.

Hiking

Lake Powell is a hiking enthusiast's dream, boasting trails that weave through some of the most awe-inspiring geological wonders in the region.

One must-do hike is the Page Rim Trail, a scenic 10-mile loop with panoramic views of Lake Powell, the Glen Canyon Dam, and the Vermilion Cliffs. Don't miss the opportunity to experience Antelope Canyon's enchanting light beams.

Popular hiking spots:

  1. Rainbow Bridge
  2. Antelope Canyon
  3. Page Rim Trail
  4. Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park

Explore Unique Locations

Rainbow Bridge

Step into wonderment at Rainbow Bridge, one of the world's largest natural bridges. This National Monument, officially discovered in 1909, can be experienced via a 7-hour boat tour from nearby marinas, featuring a 1-mile hike through awe-inspiring terrain.

Defiance House

Nestled near Bullfrog Marina in the serene Forgotten Canyon, Defiance House offers a perfect blend of history and tranquility, featuring restored ruins that tell tales of bygone eras.

Cathedral in the Desert

Tucked within the Escalante River Arm's Clear Creek Canyon, this mystical spot is accessible via a thrilling boat ride followed by a serene paddle or kayak through narrow passages. With water levels influencing each visit's experience, every trip offers a new perspective.

Lost Eden Canyon

Located close to Bullfrog and just past Halls Creek Bay, this canyon is an easily accessible treasure trove featuring cavernous alcoves bathed in reflected sunlight.

Glen Canyon Dam

Engage in a 45-minute guided tour starting at the Carl Hayden Visitor Center, where insights into the dam's history and operations unfold.

Labyrinth Slot Canyon

A stunning maze of narrow passages comparable in beauty to the renowned Antelope Canyon. To reach its majestic depths, embark on an adventurous boat trip coupled with paddleboarding or kayaking.

Stargaze

The night sky unfurls like a cosmic masterpiece, particularly in Bullfrog, unveiling the Milky Way in all its glimmering glory. Glen Canyon transforms into a magical stargazing venue in the absence of moonlight.

Keep an Eye Out for Dinosaur Tracks

Discover natural relics in hidden canyons or well-paved paths and be transported back through eons of history. Engage with local guides during tours to enhance your understanding.

Treasure These National Treasures

Lake Powell and the surrounding wonders are true Southern Utah and Northern Arizona gems. Practice proper etiquette, pack it in and pack it out, and be fragile-aware. Millions have relished Lake Powell's wonders — let's ensure millions more cherish them for generations to come.