Lake Powell & Page Arizona
Reviewed and updated by AZ Leisure Staff Writers on .
Lake Powell. © Lake Powell Resorts & MarinasPage, Arizona is the primary gateway to the southern end of Lake Powell, a vast Colorado River reservoir extending across the Arizona-Utah border within Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. Surrounded by dramatic sandstone cliffs, side canyons and desert scenery, Lake Powell is famous for boating, houseboating, fishing, kayaking, swimming and exploring remote coves and canyon waterways.
At full pool, Lake Powell stretches approximately 186 miles, has about 1,960 miles of shoreline and includes more than 90 side canyons. Page provides convenient access to the lake as well as nearby attractions including Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, Glen Canyon Dam and the Colorado River.
- Things To Do
- Boating & Houseboating
- Lake Access & Water Levels
- Fishing
- Kayaking & Paddleboarding
- Marinas
- Nearby Attractions
- Where To Stay
- Best Time To Visit
- FAQ
Lake Powell At A Glance
- Location: Northern Arizona and southern Utah
- Nearest Arizona city: Page
- Recreation area: Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
- Created by: Glen Canyon Dam on the Colorado River
- Length at full pool: Approximately 186 miles
- Shoreline at full pool: Approximately 1,960 miles
- Side canyons: More than 90
- Maximum depth at full pool: Approximately 561 feet at Glen Canyon Dam
- Popular activities: Boating, houseboating, fishing, kayaking, swimming and camping
Why Visit Page & Lake Powell
Page and Lake Powell offer an exceptional combination of water recreation and Southwest scenery. Visitors can spend the day boating through sandstone canyons, fishing secluded coves, paddling quiet waterways or relaxing along the shoreline, then explore internationally known attractions such as Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon nearby.
Lake Powell was created by Glen Canyon Dam on the Colorado River and is the centerpiece of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. Today the reservoir's changing water level continually reshapes shorelines, beaches and access conditions, making every visit somewhat different. Visitors planning to launch a boat should check current lake-level and ramp information before traveling.
Things To Do At Page & Lake Powell
- Boating & Houseboating: Explore Lake Powell's open water, coves and sandstone side canyons by boat or houseboat.
- Fishing: Pursue striped bass, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, crappie and other sport fish.
- Kayaking & Paddleboarding: Explore quiet coves and narrow canyon passages by paddlecraft.
- Swimming: Swim in suitable lake areas away from marinas, launch ramps and heavy boat traffic.
- Visit Horseshoe Bend: See the famous Colorado River overlook near Page.
- Explore Antelope Canyon: Visit the renowned sandstone slot canyon on Navajo Nation land.
- Visit Glen Canyon Dam: See the dam that created Lake Powell and learn about the Colorado River system.
- Camping: Stay at developed campgrounds or explore permitted primitive shoreline camping areas.
- Photography: Capture sandstone cliffs, blue water, desert sunsets and canyon scenery.
Boating & Houseboating At Lake Powell
Boating is one of the defining Lake Powell experiences. The reservoir's long main channel, countless coves and sandstone side canyons provide opportunities for cruising, fishing, water sports, sightseeing and multi-day houseboat trips. Visitors can bring their own vessels or rent boats and houseboats through Lake Powell marina operators.
Houseboating allows visitors to explore portions of the lake that are difficult to reach from shore and spend nights surrounded by canyon scenery. Because launch access and navigation conditions change with reservoir elevation, boaters should review current lake levels, ramp availability, weather and navigation information before departing.
Lake Powell Access & Changing Water Levels
Lake Powell remains open for boating and water recreation, but reservoir levels can significantly affect launch ramps, marina access, shoreline conditions and navigation routes. Some ramps that traditionally served motorized boats may temporarily be limited to paddlecraft or become unavailable as the lake level changes.
Before towing a boat to Lake Powell, check the National Park Service's current launch-ramp and lake-level information for the exact access point you plan to use. Conditions can change during a single recreation season, so older printed maps and previous-trip experience should not be relied upon for current launching information.
Fishing At Lake Powell
Lake Powell supports an important recreational fishery, with striped bass and smallmouth bass among the lake's dominant sport fish. Anglers also pursue largemouth bass, crappie and other species throughout its coves, rocky shorelines, points and open-water areas.
- Striped Bass: Often travel and feed in schools in open water and around concentrations of forage fish.
- Smallmouth Bass: Common around rocky shorelines, points and canyon structure.
- Largemouth Bass: Often associated with coves and areas offering additional cover.
- Crappie: Available in suitable protected habitat around the reservoir.
- Boat Fishing: A boat provides access to remote coves, canyon walls and offshore structure that cannot easily be reached from land.
Lake Powell spans Arizona and Utah, and fishing regulations can differ depending on location and activity. Anglers should review current state and National Park Service regulations before fishing.
Lake Powell Video
Kayaking & Paddleboarding At Lake Powell
Lake Powell is an outstanding destination for kayaking and paddleboarding, particularly in protected coves and narrow sandstone side canyons where paddlers can explore scenery inaccessible from roads. Early mornings often provide cooler temperatures and calmer conditions, although wind and boat wakes can develop quickly.
- Protected Coves: Look for quieter water away from heavily traveled main channels.
- Side Canyons: Narrow canyon passages provide memorable paddling and photography opportunities.
- Arizona-Side Access: Paddlecraft can access the lake from several locations near Page, depending on current conditions.
- Safety: Wear a properly fitted life jacket, carry drinking water and check weather and wind forecasts before launching.
Lake Powell Marinas Near Page Arizona
Wahweap Marina and Antelope Point Marina are the principal marina areas serving the southern portion of Lake Powell near Page. Both provide access to boating and visitor services, although specific rentals, launching options, restaurants, fuel availability and operating hours can change.
- Wahweap Marina: A major Lake Powell marina near Page offering lodging, houseboat and watercraft rentals, dining and other visitor services.
- Antelope Point Marina: A marina approximately five miles uplake from Glen Canyon Dam offering boating services, rentals, slips, dining and other visitor amenities.
- Lake Powell Marinas: See an overview of marina and boating options around the reservoir.
Because low reservoir levels can affect public and commercial launch operations, visitors bringing their own boats should confirm current launching arrangements directly before arriving.
A houseboat trip can combine lodging, transportation and recreation in one Lake Powell experience. Visitors can cruise into remote portions of the reservoir, anchor or beach in suitable areas, enjoy canyon sunsets and spend several days exploring away from developed marina areas.
Popular activities during a Lake Powell boating trip include fishing, swimming, kayaking, water skiing and exploring side canyons. Conditions vary with weather, boat traffic and changing reservoir levels, so safe navigation and advance trip planning are especially important.
Lake Powell Boat Tours & Scenic Cruises
Visitors who prefer not to operate their own boat can explore portions of Lake Powell through commercial boat tours and other guided excursions. Tour offerings vary by season, lake level and operator, so check current schedules when planning your visit. Guided fishing and other water-based excursions are also available from the Page and marina areas.
Attractions Near Lake Powell & Page Arizona
Page is surrounded by some of northern Arizona's best-known natural attractions. Horseshoe Bend provides a dramatic overlook of the Colorado River, while Antelope Canyon is internationally known for its sculpted sandstone walls and guided slot-canyon tours.
Visitors can also see Glen Canyon Dam and the nearby Glen Canyon Dam Overlook, explore the Colorado River corridor toward Lees Ferry, or plan longer excursions to Rainbow Bridge National Monument, the Vermilion Cliffs area and the Grand Canyon.
Travel distances and access conditions vary considerably around this remote region, so allow extra time between attractions and check current road, trail and tour conditions before setting out.
Where To Stay Near Lake Powell & Page Arizona
Visitors can choose from several types of accommodations around southern Lake Powell, including lakeside lodging, campgrounds, RV sites, hotels in Page and houseboat rentals.
Wahweap: The Wahweap area offers Lake Powell Resort, campground and RV accommodations, marina services and convenient access to southern Lake Powell. Services and seasonal availability should be verified when booking.
Page: Page offers the area's largest selection of traditional hotels, motels, restaurants and visitor services and is convenient to Lake Powell, Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon and Glen Canyon Dam.
Houseboats: For travelers who want to stay directly on the lake, houseboat rentals provide a distinctive multi-day Lake Powell experience. Boat models, occupancy, rental locations and seasonal availability vary.
Best Time To Visit Lake Powell
- Spring: Comfortable daytime temperatures can be excellent for sightseeing, fishing and boating, although wind can be unpredictable.
- Summer: Peak season for swimming, houseboating and water sports, but temperatures can become extremely hot and shade is limited.
- Fall: Mild weather, warm water and generally lighter crowds make fall one of the most comfortable seasons for boating and sightseeing.
- Winter: Much quieter than summer and well suited to sightseeing, photography and hiking, although nighttime temperatures can fall below freezing.
Lake Powell Visitor Tips
- Check current lake levels and launch-ramp status before towing a boat to Lake Powell.
- Carry abundant drinking water and sun protection because summer heat can be extreme and shade is limited.
- Check wind forecasts before boating, kayaking or paddleboarding.
- Do not swim at marinas or launch ramps and avoid swimming in heavily traveled boat channels.
- Use current navigation information because changing reservoir levels expose rocks, shoals and shoreline features.
- Allow plenty of travel time because Lake Powell, Page and nearby attractions cover a large geographic area.
- Check current park alerts, water-quality advisories and seasonal facility hours before your trip.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lake Powell & Page Arizona
Where Is Lake Powell In Arizona?
Lake Powell extends across the Arizona-Utah border within Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. Page, Arizona is the primary gateway to the southern portion of the reservoir.
What Is Lake Powell Known For?
Lake Powell is known for houseboating, boating, fishing, kayaking, swimming and dramatic sandstone canyon scenery. Page also provides access to famous nearby attractions including Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon.
What City Is Closest To Lake Powell?
Page, Arizona is the closest city to the principal Arizona-side Lake Powell recreation and marina areas.
Can You Rent Houseboats At Lake Powell?
Yes. Houseboat rentals remain one of Lake Powell's signature recreation experiences, with rentals available through marina operators. Boat models, availability and operating locations vary by season and lake conditions.
Is Lake Powell Good For Fishing?
Yes. Lake Powell is particularly well known for striped bass and smallmouth bass and also supports largemouth bass, crappie and other sport fish.
Can You Kayak At Lake Powell?
Yes. Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular ways to explore Lake Powell's quiet coves and narrow side canyons. Paddlers should monitor wind, boat traffic, weather and current launch conditions.
Can You Swim In Lake Powell?
Yes. Swimming is permitted in much of Lake Powell, but it is prohibited at marinas and launch areas and within Rainbow Bridge National Monument. Avoid swimming in busy boating channels.
Are Lake Powell Boat Ramps Open?
Lake Powell remains open for boating, but individual launch ramps may be open, restricted or closed depending on reservoir elevation. Always check current National Park Service ramp conditions before towing a boat to the lake.
What Attractions Are Near Lake Powell?
Popular attractions near Page and Lake Powell include Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, Glen Canyon Dam, Glen Canyon Dam Overlook, Rainbow Bridge National Monument, Lees Ferry and the Colorado River corridor.
What Is The Best Time To Visit Lake Powell?
Spring and fall generally provide the most comfortable temperatures for boating and sightseeing. Summer is the most popular season for swimming and houseboating but can be extremely hot, while winter is quieter and considerably cooler.
Related Information About Lake Powell AZ
About Lake Powell
Lake Powell Map and Directions
Wahweap Marina Map
Map To Antelope Point Marina
Lake Powell House Boat Rentals
Related Lake Powell-Page Interest
Map & Directions Vermilion Cliffs
Vermillion Cliffs Photos
Vermillion Cliffs Wilderness Videos
Lake Powell & Page Arizona
