Horseshoe Bend has become one of the most photographed places in Arizona and it’s also 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. While being here, you’ll be able to walk around and admire the magnificent phenomenon that nature created. If you are planning on going to Horseshoe Bend, find out here all you need to plan your visit, including how to get here, hotels nearby, and hike details.
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Where is Horseshoe Bend
Horseshoe Bend is located in the city of Page which is in the northern corner of Arizona, right on the border with Utah. Because of this, the place can be accessed from either the Grand Canyon National Park or from a road trip to visit the National Parks in Utah.
Getting here
To get to Horseshoe Bend you’ll have to drive to the city of Page, in Arizona. If you don’t want to set up a base in Page, you can add it as a stop on a road trip and combine it with other cities in Arizona and Utah. Here are the nearest main points of attraction in order to 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
Additionally, you can also visit Horseshow Bend on a day trip from Las Vegas and combine it with a visit to Antelope Canyon. The best tours to visit Horseshoe Bend are:
- Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend Full-Day Trip from Las Vegas
- Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Full-Day Trip from Las Vegas
- Horseshoe Bend & Antelope Canyon X Tour from Sedona or Flagstaff
- Bonus: Lake Powell & Horseshoe Bend 30–Minute Air Flight
Horseshoe Bend Hike
Once in the city of 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.
At the end of the hike, you’ll find a viewpoint where you can stop and gaze upon Horseshoe Bend, but you can also 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 be careful when out in the middle of the day.
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 to get the best views.
Also, there is no entrance fee to visit Horseshoe Bend, just a US$ 10 charge per vehicle for parking.
Best places to stay
The city of Page has many hotels to choose from while visiting Horseshoe Bend and Lake Powell. Here are some options:
- Hyatt Place Page Lake Powell – one of the best hotels in Page, and on a great location – a perfect option to visit not only Horseshoe Bend, but also to explore all attractions nearby.
- Best Western View of Lake Powell Hotel – a comfortable hotel surrounded by views of the Glen Canyon Rim.
- Country Inn & Suites by Radisson – a good alternative if you are just passing by and need a bed for the night.
- Lake Powell Resort – located at Wahweap Marina, this hotel provides stunning views of Lake Powell.
Places to eat nearby
When it’s time to eat, head 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.
Horseshoe Bend FAQ
How long is the Horseshoe Bend hike?
Horseshoe Bend 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. If you are visiting any of these locations, be sure to 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. I recommend avoiding visiting it for sunset 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:
- Lake Powell and Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
- Coral Pink Sand Dunes and other state parks in Utah
- Zion National Park
- Grand Canyon National Park
- Antelope Canyon
- Arches National Park
- Bryce Canyon National Park
- Capitol Reef National Park
- Petrified Forest National Park
Want to visit more destinations in the Southwest? Make sure to read:
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