Horseshoe Bend

Yes, there is a fee to visit Horseshoe Bend, but it's a parking fee rather than an entrance fee. Current rates are:

• Standard vehicles: $10 per vehicle
• Motorcycles: $5
• Commercial vans or buses: $35-$140 depending on passenger capacity

These fees are collected at the entrance to the parking lot. Payment methods include:

• Credit/debit cards (preferred)
• Cash (exact change recommended)

Unlike many national park sites, America the Beautiful passes (National Park passes) are not accepted for the parking fee since the parking area is managed by the City of Page rather than the National Park Service.

The fee helps maintain the facilities, including the parking lot, restrooms, and the developed trail to the overlook.

The lighting at Horseshoe Bend changes dramatically throughout the day, creating different photographic opportunities:

• Sunrise (recommended): Early morning offers soft light with fewer crowds. The rising sun illuminates the eastern canyon walls with a golden glow.
• Mid-morning to early afternoon: The sun is high, creating harsh shadows and high contrast. The river appears at its most vibrant blue-green, but photography can be challenging due to the stark lighting.
• Late afternoon to sunset (highly recommended): The low-angle light bathes the entire canyon in warm tones. This is the most popular time for photographers, as the setting sun creates dramatic shadows and highlights the red-orange colors of the canyon walls.

Photography Tips:

• The overlook faces west, so afternoon light illuminates the bend more evenly
• Wide-angle lenses (16-24mm) are ideal for capturing the entire bend
• Consider a polarizing filter to reduce glare from the river and enhance colors
• Tripods are recommended, especially during low-light conditions

Keep in mind that sunset is the busiest time, so arrive early to secure a good viewing spot. The golden hour just before sunset (approximately 1 hour) offers exceptional lighting with slightly fewer people than at the actual sunset time.

The hike to Horseshoe Bend is moderately easy but does present some challenges:

• Distance: 0.75 miles each way (1.5 miles round trip)
• Terrain: Initial section is paved and accessible; remainder is a maintained sand/gravel path
• Elevation: Approximately 200 feet of elevation change, including an uphill section at the beginning
• Difficulty factors:
  • Exposure to sun (very little shade along the trail)
  • Sandy portions that can be more difficult to walk in
  • Desert heat, especially in summer months (temperatures regularly exceed 100°F/38°C)

Accessibility:

• A portion of the trail and one viewing area are ADA-accessible
• The accessible route is paved but has some moderate grades
• Manual wheelchairs may require assistance due to the inclines

Preparation Tips:

• Wear sturdy shoes (not flip-flops)
• Bring ample water (at least 1 liter per person, more in summer)
• Wear sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
• Consider hiking poles if you have balance concerns
• Allow 1.5-2 hours for the complete experience (hiking and viewing)

Most visitors of average fitness find the hike manageable, but it can be challenging for those with mobility issues or during extreme heat. Early morning or evening visits are recommended during summer to avoid the hottest part of the day.

Swimming in the Colorado River at the base of Horseshoe Bend is not directly accessible from the overlook viewpoint. There is no trail that leads down the 1,000-foot cliff to the river from the main viewing area.

Access to the River:

• Float trips: The most common way to access the water at Horseshoe Bend is via guided raft or boat tours that depart from Glen Canyon Dam, about 5 miles upstream
• Kayaking: Experienced kayakers can launch from Lees Ferry (15 miles downstream) and paddle upstream to Horseshoe Bend, but this requires permits and expertise

Swimming Considerations:

• The Colorado River is very cold year-round (approximately 45-55°F / 7-13°C) due to releases from the bottom of Glen Canyon Dam
• Current speeds vary depending on dam releases and can be strong
• Water quality is generally good in this section, as it's clear and filtered by the dam
• Swimming is permitted during float trips at designated beaches, under guide supervision

Safety Note: If you do participate in a river tour that allows swimming opportunities, be aware that the water is extremely cold and can cause cold water shock. Always wear a life jacket and follow guide instructions.

For those looking to swim in the area, nearby Lake Powell offers numerous designated swimming beaches with easier access and warmer water temperatures, particularly in summer months.