Lake Powell

Located in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area (NRA), Lake Powell is a literal watering hole for visitors to have a splashing time. Hiking, boating, swimming and fishing are popular pastimes with the stunning, red-rock canyons as a backdrop in this Southern Utah hotspot.

Whether on land or water, over two million travelers gather with family and friends each year to experience the second-largest manmade reservoir in the United States. Encompassing over 1.2 million acres, with multiple marinas and a national monument nearby, there’s no lack of sights to see.

Why People Love Lake Powell

Boating

Boating is one of the most popular activities in the Lake Powell area. Whether you are on a private boat or a rental, you are destined for a great time.

When you’re renting a boat, powerboats and pontoons are ideal for 10-12 people. Weekender and houseboat rentals are perfect for days on the lake. For small, beach-bound groups, personal watercraft and jet ski rentals are great.

Have fun and don’t forget your life jackets!

Swimming

In the summer, water temperatures can rise to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Swimming is prohibited at marinas and boat launch areas, but there are various beaches for designated water fun. Bring a picnic and enjoy a day at the beach. With no lifeguards on duty, watch children and wear life jackets safety. Water quality can change in different areas and it’s wise to check weather reports before your trip.

Other safety tips can be found on the National Park Service website.

Fishing

Before Glen Canyon Dam was built, the Colorado River was full of silt that was not fish-friendly. Since then, the National Park Service has made it a priority to protect these endangered fish who adapted to the waters, as well as introduce other species for the avid fisherman.

For fishing in Lake Powell, research which spots are prohibited and the licenses required for this activity, as well as how many fish can be kept.

Rainbow Bridge National Monument

A Navajo, sandstone beauty, the Rainbow Bridge National Monument is the world’s tallest and longest known natural bridge. It holds significance to the native people in the area and continues to inspire many of the 300,000 visitors each year.

The natural Rainbow Bridge was created from sand dunes up to 5,000 feet deep that hardened to rock, only to be eroded by Bridge Creek later in the last glacial period. The bridge spans 275 feet across Bridge Creek in an almost perfect arch. The top of the arch is 42 feet thick and 33 feet wide.

In 2018, this isolated and remote bridge was designated as an International Dark Sky Sanctuary. This status not only offers protection to the area but also takes into account its pristine night skies where the stars can clearly be seen.

The arch is only accessible via a 2-hour boat ride on Lake Powell followed by a 1-mile hike, or by hiking overland for several days from a trailhead on the south side of the lake.

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

Lake Powell is within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area (NRA), handled by the National Park Service. Made up of the lake and surrounding desert land, the area was established to preserve the land and provide recreational opportunities for enjoyment.

Lake Powell Marinas

There are five marinas at Lake Powell, four of which have public launch ramps for boats.

Wahweap Marina

Ramp: public boat ramp

Directions: drive US 89 near Page, Arizona

Wahweap Marina is one of the largest at Lake Powell. With multiple options for lodging and dining services, as well as two campgrounds, you’ll have everything you need for a relaxing vacation. A service station is also available with full marina service for boat repair and more.

Antelope Point Marina

Ramp: public boat ramp

Directions: 5 miles up lake from Glen Canyon Dam on the main channel or accessible by land driving US 89.

Antelope Point Marina has a day-use area, as well as a restaurant and small convenience stores for immediate needs. For boaters, there are rentals, repair and both dump and pump-out stations. It’s the perfect stop on your trip around the lake.

Bullfrog Marina

Ramp: public boat ramp

Directions: accessible via the Burr Trail or US 95 and US 276.

Offering the widest range of services, Bullfrog Marina is one of the bigger marinas with visitor services, a grocery store and a service station. The marina has multiple campgrounds, along with other lodging options. This full-service marina has everything both you and your boat need for a safe and fun adventure.

Halls Crossing Marina

Ramp: public boat ramp

Directions: 10 miles east of Halls Crossing

Halls Crossing Marina has a free boat pump-out station and park concessionaire. Visitor services are available along with a service station for boat repair. There are also two campgrounds at this marina to extend the lake adventure to a multi-day trip.

Dangling Rope Marina

Ramp: no boat ramp available — only available by water

Directions: accessible via water only, between Wahweap and Halls Crossing/Bullfrog area.

Dangling Rope Marina has minimal facilities including a ranger station, restrooms and a free boat pump-out station.

Lake Powell Water Level

Being a man-made reservoir in the desert state of Utah, Lake Powell’s water levels vary. Sometimes this can affect boating capabilities. Boaters and other adventure-seekers should be aware of the water level so their properties and cars are a safe distance from the shoreline. If the water is high, houseboats will need to reset their anchors each day. If the water is too low, boats might not be able to launch onto the lake.

Visiting Lake Powell

Are you interested in visiting Lake Powell and the Glen Park area? Request a travel guide to learn more about the area and plan a multi-day trip for additional fun!