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Destinations

Where Lake Adventure Begins

Lake Powell

Lake Powell Boating and Fishing

Elevation:
3,652 Feet
Population:
5000
Lake Powell is a popular destination located in Utah and Arizona. It is an artificial lake created by the Glen Canyon Dam on the Colorado River, stretching 186 miles across two states. This beautiful lake serves as a recreational paradise for visitors seeking to explore its shoreline and connect with nature. Boasting up to 2,000 miles of shoreline, it is one of the largest man-made reservoirs in North America.

Lake Powell’s turquoise waters and red sandstone cliffs offer a stunning backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts to explore. With nearly 100 major canyons, visitors can enjoy sailing and fishing on its serene waters or embark on an adventurous journey through its remote slot canyons. There are also plenty of hiking opportunities along its shoreline, which feature gorgeous views of the canyon walls and rock formations.

The lake is known for being one of the best places to take a houseboat vacation in the world. Houseboats allow you to explore different areas of the lake without having to worry about hotels, restaurants, or gas stations. Many houseboat rentals come with the option of having a captain, so visitors can relax and enjoy the scenery while someone else navigates them through all the lake has to offer.

Geology

The geology of Lake Powell is characterized by its colorful sandstone cliffs and canyons. The serpentine body of the lake was cut out by the powerful Colorado River over centuries, creating many stunning natural wonders such as Rainbow Bridge National Monument and Glen Canyon Dam. This diverse landscape provides a unique opportunity for visitors to explore and discover the geological history of the lake.

HISTORY

The area where Lake Powell lies was originally inhabited by the Anasazi and Paiute Indians, who were eventually forced out of the area in the mid-19th century. In 1956, Congress authorized Glen Canyon Dam on the Colorado River to provide flood control, irrigation water, and hydroelectric power to Arizona and California. The dam created what is now known as Lake Powell, and it has been a popular destination for vacationers since its formation.

Wildlife

Lake Powell in Utah and Arizona is home to many different species of wildlife, including fish, birds, and mammals. Commonly seen species include bald eagles, osprey, coyotes, mule deer, wild burros, bighorn sheep and elk. The lake’s shallow waters attract a variety of fish, such as bass, crappie and catfish.
Photo gallery

Lake Powell Attractions

Within the lake itself there are many unique formations, tributary river canyons, hiking trails, and historic sites. Here is a list of the more popular places to visit.

  • Antelope Canyon
  • Rainbow Bridge
  • Hole in the Rock
  • Cathedral in the Desert
  • Gregory Natural Bridge
  • Escalante Arm
  • Reflection Canyon

Directions

Southern Section - Highway 89 is the route to the southern section if you are traveling from locations west or south of the lake where Wahweap and Antelope Point marinas are located near Page Arizona.

Northern Section - If you are traveling from the Four Corners region take Highway 163 or 191 that connects to Highway 95. If coming from north of the lake take Interstate-70 to SR-24 to Hanksville Utah that will connect you to Highway 95. Highway 95 connects to SR-276 where Ticaboo and Bullfrog Marina are located.

AIRPORTS

  • South Lake Powell - Page Arizona has a small executive airport for private aircraft. commercial airline services are located at St. George Utah, Cedar City Utah
  • North Lake Powell - There are airfields located at Halls Crossing, Hite, and Bullfrog for private aircraft. The nearest regional airport with commercial service is at Grand Junction Colorado.

Cedar City Regional Airport: 3 hours to Wahweap Marina. Connecting flights available from Salt Lake City are available.

St. George Regional Airport: 2.5 hours to Wahweap Marina. Connecting flights from Salt Lake City, Los Angeles, and other regional metro area. 

Grand Junction Regional Airport: 3.5 hours to Bullfrog Marina. Connecting flights from Salt Lake City, Los Angeles, and other regional metro area.

Las Vegas International Airport: 4.5 hours to Wahweap Marina. Flights to and from many foreign and domestic destinations.  

Salt Lake City International Airport: 6 hours to Wahweap Marina, 5 hours to Bullfrog Marina. Another major airport hub with flights to and from many foreign and domestic destinations. 

Phoenix International Airport: 8 hours to Bullfrog Marina, 4.5 hours to Wahweap Marina. Flights to and from many foreign and domestic destinations.  

Planning your trip to lake powell

When planning a trip to Lake Powell in Utah and Arizona, there are several things to consider. First and foremost, it’s important to select the right lake access point. Most visitors choose either Wahweap Marina or Bullfrog Marina as their starting point, but there are other launch ramps scattered along the lake that give visitors additional options. Second, visitors should decide whether they plan to stay on shore or take a houseboat trip. Finally, it’s important to make sure all necessary supplies and equipment are packed before arriving.

Lake Powell is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States for good reason. Its stunning scenery, recreational opportunities and diverse wildlife attract thousands of visitors each year.

lodging / Camping

Lake Powell has many lodging and camping options for visitors. For an authentic houseboat experience, a number of companies offer houseboats that can be rented for use on the lake. Visitors can also stay at one of the nearby marinas or campgrounds, most of which are located within National Park boundaries. There are also plenty of hotels and motels situated around Page, Arizona which is the nearest town to Lake Powell.

dining

Page and the surrounding area offer a variety of dining options, ranging from casual to fine dining. Visitors can find local favorites such as Mexican and Italian food, or venture to the other side of town for some American fare. There are also a few restaurants located directly on Lake Powell offering visitors a great spot to enjoy a meal while taking in breathtaking views.

Fees / Permits

No permits are required for general use of Lake Powell, but visitors should make sure to check with the National Park Service for specific regulations. There is a fee for camping and houseboat rentals, and all visitors must have a valid fishing license if they plan to fish on the lake. There are also fees for people driving, walking and riding a motorcycle into the area. For more information about fees and permits, visit the national park website for all amounts for Lake Powell.

Seasons

Lake Powell can be a busy place on most weekends between April and mid-October. Weekdays may also be busy during this time frame. Many people have learned that starting very early is a good way to beat the crowds. The other best choice is to visit the park later in the afternoon when many visitors may be leaving the park. For the best experience on busy days we suggest you obtain a parking spot early and select lesser known trails.

Pets

Pets are welcome at Lake Powell and there are several pet-friendly lodging options available. Make sure to follow all National Park regulations when bringing a pet on vacation, including having them leashed and keeping them out of designated wilderness areas. Additionally, visitors should always clean up after their pets while visiting the area.
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Recreation

Local outfitters and guides provide hiking, canyoneering, UTV or ATV experiences, bike rentals (pedal/electric), boats, kayaks, canoes, standup paddle boards, jetskis, and more. 

Photography

Lake Powell is one of the true gems in the west for photographers from the lake itself, shoreline and from surrounding cliffs, buttes, canyons, and mesas. 

One of the best ways to see the lake is to rent a boat or take a guided boat tour. From within the lake visitors can access rarely seen sites that are unavailable from land and also capture the reflection and light from lake-view advantages.

On land there are numerous classic western landscapes from the southern tip to the northern tip of the lake that have been captured by photographers world over and used in movies and commercials.

Lakes & Rivers

Colorado River

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Flaming Gorge

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Green River

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Lake Powell

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Provo River

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Strawberry Reservoir

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