Horseshoe Bend with Kids

Are you planning a visit to the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area? There's one spot you don't want to miss - Horseshoe Bend! This iconic feature is a true gem that captures the imagination and is a perfect family friendly destination when in Northern Arizona. We were thrilled to finally see it for ourselves after watching other RV travel families in their vlogs. Horseshoe Bend is a 270-degree bend in the Colorado River that offers one of the most colorful and dramatic panorama’s in the world, is a very popular day tour in the region. The views from the Horseshoe Bend Overlook are famous for good reason!

Horseshoe Bend: Where is it?

Horseshoe Bend is a spectacular natural formation located near the town of Page, Arizona. This horseshoe-shaped incised meander of the Colorado River is undoubtedly one of the best views in the southwest.

To be more precise, the parking lot and trailhead are off US Highway 89, approximately 5 miles south of the Carl Hayden Visitor Center. It's located about 5 miles downstream from the Glen Canyon Dam and Lake Powell within Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. If you're coming from Flagstaff, Arizona's third-largest city, you would take Highway 89 north to reach Horseshoe Bend.

When is the Best Times to Visit?

• Sunrise or Sunset: The lighting during these times makes the scenery even more magical, with vibrant skies and soft shadows that enhance the view. Plus, it’s cooler and less crowded!
• Spring or Fall: The temperatures are generally milder, which makes the 1.5-mile round-trip hike more enjoyable.

Do you need a permit for Horseshoe Bend?

Upon arrival, you'll find parking that costs $10 and $5 for motorcycles to enter the area and get a view of the Horseshoe Bend, 270-degree bend in the Colorado River along with restrooms available in the lot. 

Can you visit Horseshoe Bend with dogs?

Horseshoe Bend is a popular destination not just for hikers but also for their four-legged friends. It's a dog-friendly trail as long as your pup is on a leash. So, feel free to bring your furry friend along for the adventure.

How long is the hike?

You’ll join other hikers at a panoramic view of a 1000 foot overlook down into the Colorado River. The hike from the parking lot to the overlook is about .75 miles one-way to the overlook. The hike is kid-friendly and has a hardened trail that leads to an overlook viewpoint. The first part of the trail is uphill, while the return trip is downhill. For those with mobility challenges, a viewing platform near the overlook offers improved accessibility features, including railings.

Fair warning, there are some uneven spots along the way, so keep an eye out for your little ones. Your furry friends will enjoy the hike as well, but make sure to keep them on a leash and away from the rim.

Why Is Horseshoe Bend a Must-See?

Imagine standing on the edge of a 1,000-foot cliff, overlooking a massive curve in the Colorado River as it wraps around sculpted red rock. The deep emerald water contrasts beautifully with the orange and rustic hues of the sandstone, creating one of the most striking landscapes in the Southwest.

Horseshoe Bend is more than its picture-perfect views; it’s a place that invites reflection, wonder, and a renewed appreciation for nature’s artistry. Whether you’re visiting to snap the ultimate photo or simply to take it all in, this destination has a way of cementing itself in your memories.