Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area protects the Glen Canyon reach of the Colorado River and the reservoir Lake Powell in southern Utah and northern Arizona. The unit was designated in 1972 and is centered on the stretch of reservoir and canyon country created after construction of Glen Canyon Dam.

The area is dominated by Lake Powell, which can extend roughly 186 miles when full and offers extensive boating, fishing, and houseboating opportunities. Shoreline slot canyons, sandstone cliffs, and scenic overlooks are major attractions, and there are developed marinas and launch ramps for recreational access.

Glen Canyon Dam was completed in 1966 to create Lake Powell and generates hydroelectric power; the recreation area was established to manage the reservoir and surrounding lands. Over time management has balanced water storage, recreation, and cultural site protection.

The recreation area straddles southern Utah and northern Arizona; the town of Page, Arizona is the primary gateway and is about 15 miles from Glen Canyon Dam. The landscape is desert canyon country with numerous sandstone cliffs and side canyons along the reservoir.

• When to go: Best visiting months are spring and fall when temperatures are milder and water recreation is most comfortable.
• Access and boats: Boating is the primary way to access many side canyons and remote campsites; houseboat rentals and guided boat tours operate from Page, Arizona.

What to See #

• Lake Powell: Covers the Glen Canyon reach of the Colorado River and the reservoir known as Lake Powell, which can extend up to about 186 miles when full; contains numerous side canyons and shoreline access points for boating and camping.
• Glen Canyon Dam: Home to **Glen Canyon Dam**, completed in 1966, which impounds the Colorado River to form Lake Powell and supports a hydroelectric power plant.
• Rainbow Bridge National Monument: Includes Rainbow Bridge National Monument at the upstream end of Lake Powell, accessible by boat or long hikes and considered one of the world's largest natural bridges.