Lake Powell’s natural beauty can be enjoyed by land or water.
While much of the country considers summer the time to get outside and enjoy nature, there’s still plenty of good weather during the fall. If you’re looking for a safe, socially distant outdoor activity for this fall or winter, check out all of the potential hiking routes you can take near South Lake Powell.
Navajo Canyon
Navajo canyon is comprised of Navajo Sandstone.
Location: East of Wahweap Marina
Difficulty: Easy
As the longest side canyon on Lake Powell, Navajo Canyon offers gentle hikes, which can be up to 12 miles round trip. Be sure to keep your camera ready to capture the beautiful natural formations along the canyon and for wild horses who wander and drink along the flat streambed. Must see: Chaol Falls, a 40-foot waterfall. You’ll hear it before you see it!
Hanging Garden
Location: South of Wahweap Marina
Difficulty: Easy
The Hanging Garden Trail is a short trail, clocking in at 1.2 miles in and out. The heavily-trafficked trail is popular as it is relatively easy for all skill levels, with very little elevation change. Bring your pooch along for this hike, as this trail is dog-friendly for dogs who are leashed. The Glen Canyon Dam is a short distance east from the Hanging Garden Trail. Enjoy the view and the brisk hike!
Rainbow Bridge
Rainbow Bridge is a must-see destination of Lake Powell.
Location: Northeast of Wahweap Marina
Difficulty: Easy
The best way to get to Rainbow Bridge is via boat. If you rent a powerboat for the day at Wahweap Marina you can drive to the edge of the lake near Rainbow Bridge. After docking, it’s a short, easy hike to see all the glory that is Rainbow Bridge. Known as the largest natural bridge in the world, this is truly a must-see sight for all visitors to Lake Powell.
The Rim Trail
After a long day hiking around Lake Powell, soak in the stunning sunset!
Location: South of Wahweap Marina
Difficulty: Easy
The Rim Trail, located in Page, AZ is accessible to all skill-levels, and clocks in at about 9.8 miles for the full loop. Runner, cyclist, and casual walkers flock to this moderately trafficked trail. Leashed dogs are welcome too!
Labyrinth Canyon
Location: Northeast of Wahweap Marina
Difficulty: Moderate
The trail through Labyrinth Canyon leads you through a narrow slot canyon. Along parts of the trail, if you reach your arms out wide, you’ll be able to touch both sides of the canyon. The start of Labyrinth Canyon is full of water, so you’ll need to rent a kayak or stand up paddleboard to start.
Once you’re partway up the trail and the path narrows, you can store your kayak and hike the rest of the way through the canyon. Be sure to bring your water shoes and clothes you don’t mind getting wet!
Cha Canyon
Location: Northeast of Wahweap Marina
Difficulty: Moderate
If you’re looking for a slightly more difficult hike and to see fewer people consider hiking through Cha Canyon. Cha Canyon is located 11 miles up the San Juan arm of Lake Powell, so it’s important to bring plenty of supplies for your trip. A small stream flows through Cha Canyon, which allows for the growth of plant life. Throughout your journey, you’ll also see narrow slots, waterfalls, and Ute Indian rock art.
West Canyon
West Canyon offers Instagram-worthy sites.
Location: Northeast of Wahweap Marina
Difficulty: Strenuous
For the avid hiker looking for a challenge, there’s no better hike near Lake Powell than West Canyon. While a challenging hike, West Canyon starts easy and gets more difficult. It’s always possible to hike as much as you want and then turn around.
To access the West Canyon hike, rent a boat at Wahweap Marina and travel about 25 miles up lake. Throughout the hike, you’ll wade through low water, scramble up small waterfalls, and swim through pools of water.
Where to Stay: Lake Powell Resort
Lake Powell Resort offers a safe, socially distant, but close to nature experience.
If you’re planning to stay multiple days near Lake Powell to try all of these hikes, you’ll need a place to stay. Lake Powell Resort remains open all fall and has several safety measures in place to lower the spread of COVID-19.
Lake Powell Resort is conveniently located at Wahweap Marina. Not only is Lake Powell Resort a place to stay, but it also offers boat rentals, lake access, is pet friendly, and has WiFi access. Rooms at Lake Powell Resort come with a Keurig coffee maker, mini-refrigerator, cozy bedding, and eco-friendly toiletries. For guests who want to wake up and go to sleep taking in views of the lake, simply request a lake view room.
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