Whether you have been visiting the Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon or other attraction in northern Arizona, make sure to stop by the Horseshoe Bend. Just 4 miles outside of Page within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, downstream from Glen Canyon Dam and Lake Powell, this viewpoint offers breathtaking views of the famous, horseshoe-shaped meander of the Colorado River. This meander, entrenched within a steep-sided canyon, formed millions of years ago and, although appears to be a permanent landscape, the Horseshoe Bend is constantly changing, undergoing the processes of erosion and decomposition.
Horseshoe Bend, ArizonaMeander of the Colorado River
The Horseshoe Bend is just a short (under a mile) walk from the car park. A steep cliff looking down onto the Colorado River offers you this incredible view. As expected, it can get quite crowded with tourists all posing for memorable photos. We arrived in the late afternoon and it was very busy, although I would expect this place to get even busier leading up to sunset. Despite the crowds, there was never a shortage of excellent locations to photograph this view and pose for our own photos. While everyone is hoping for the classic shot looking straight on at the bend, it is possible to walk right around and view the horseshoe from all angles.
Horseshoe Bend, Arizona
Horseshoe Bend, Arizona
With no railings on the cliff edge, take care when taking your photos. There are plenty signs warning visitors to keep back from the edge as these rocks can crumble at any moment and it is a 1000ft drop! Just standing a few metres from the edge of the cliff sent my heart racing but there were numerous daredevils peering right over the cliff to capture the optimum photos. Also, bear in mind that there is no shade between the car park and viewpoint so bringing plenty of water, sun cream etc is essential.
This sure is a stunning and memorable destination and not a place to be missed off your Arizona itinerary. I hope you enjoy your visit to the Horseshoe Bend as much as we did and take plenty of photos, you won't be short of photo opportunities!
Horseshoe Bend, ArizonaMeander of the Colorado River