All you need to plan a visit to Horseshoe Bend, Arizona

Horseshoe Bend Arizona

Horseshoe Bend has become one of the most photographed places in Arizona and is a major social media spot. Why? Because of the intriguing shape of this part of the Colorado River that bent so much it became shaped like a horseshoe.

When visiting this epic Southwest attraction, you can walk around and admire the magnificent phenomenon that nature created.

So, if you want to see Horseshoe Bend soon, this post has all you need to plan your visit, including how to get here, hotels nearby, details about the hiking, and things to see in the area.

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Where is Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend is located in the city of Page, in the northern corner of Arizona, right on the border with Utah.

Because of its location, you can access this incredible destination from either the Grand Canyon National Park or a road trip to the National Parks in Utah.

Sitting-at-the-edge-of-Horseshoe-Bend-Arizona

Getting here

To get to Horseshoe Bend, you’ll have to drive to the city of Page, Arizona.

If you aren’t in Arizona, you can fly into Flagstaff, Phoenix, or Las Vegas, the closest major airports to Page.

Once in Page, you can also explore the waters of Lake Powell and see the magnificent Antelope Canyon.

And if you don’t want to set up a base in Page, you can add it as a stop on a Southwest road trip and combine a visit to Horseshoe Bend with other cities in Arizona and Utah.

Here are the nearest cities and attractions so that you can plan your itinerary:

  • Sedona, AZ: 160 miles
  • Phoenix, AZ: 270 miles
  • Grand Canyon National Park: 220 miles
  • Zion National Park 120 miles
  • Moab, UT: 270 miles, if you are visiting Arches and Canyonlands National Parks

You can also visit Horseshoe Bend on a day trip from Las Vegas and combine it with a visit to Antelope Canyon. To see both, here are some of the best tours:

Horseshoe Bend hike

Once in Page, you’ll drive to the trailhead parking lot where the hike will start. From the parking lot, you’ll hike 1.5 miles (round trip) over a flat, wide, and accessible paved trail.

Horseshoe-Bend-Arizona-Getting-here

At the end of the hike, you’ll find a viewpoint which is a great stop to gaze upon Horseshoe Bend. However, the best is to walk around the surrounding area and explore a bit more to find different angles and views of this remarkable place.

Please note that, although the trail is an easy walk, there’s very little shade. So, be sure to bring water and sun protection, and be careful when out in the middle of the day.

Horseshoe-Bend-Trail-Path

Opening hours and entrance fee

Horseshoe Bend is open year-round from sunrise to sunset. Most visitors arrive after 9 am and then after 4.30 pm, so I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the crowds and get the best views.

Also, there is no entrance fee to visit Horseshoe Bend, just a US$ 10 charge per vehicle for parking.

Horseshoe-Bend-Arizona-Overlook

Best places to stay

The city of Page has many hotels to choose from while visiting Horseshoe Bend and Lake Powell. Here are some of the best options:

Horseshoe-Bend-Lookout

Places to eat nearby

When it’s time to eat, head over to Big John’s BBQ, Fiesta Mexicana, Blue Buddha Sushi Lounge, or LP Espresso.

If you are on a road trip, Page also has a Walmart and a Safeway grocery store to stock up.

FAQ

How long is the Horseshoe Bend hike?

The hike is 1.5 miles (round trip) over a flat, wide, and accessible paved trail. It’s super easy and suitable for all fitness levels.

Is Horseshoe Bend worth visiting?

Absolutely! It’s one of the best places to visit in Arizona, and it’s also very close to other top attractions in the US, such as Grand Canyon, Lake Powel, and Zion National Park.

So, if you are visiting any of these locations, add a stop to see Horseshoe Bend.

Is Horseshoe Bend better at sunrise or sunset?

Blue hour, the hour right before sunrise, is the best time to arrive at Horseshoe Bend.

Also, even though sunset is a famous time, I recommend avoiding visiting it during this period because of the crowds.

Where to go from here

As part of a Southwest road trip, be sure to add one of these places to your itinerary after visiting Horseshoe Bend:

Want to visit more destinations in the Southwest? Make sure to read:

SHOP MY HIKING FAVORITES

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I am Elen, and I help 9-5ers plan their next getaway. I curate travel experiences, from places to sip a coffee to stays in boutique hotels, so you can save time when planning your next vacation. Here you will find travel guides, tips, and the best itineraries for your next trip.

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