Rainbow Bridge National MonumentAbout Rainbow Bridge National Monument
Rainbow Bridge National Monument is a large natural sandstone arch in southern Utah recognized for its size and geological form. It was proclaimed a national monument in 1910.
The arch is among the largest natural bridges in the world and is a prominent example of alcove and bridge formation in Navajo sandstone. The site is also culturally significant and sacred to several Native American tribes.
Long known to local indigenous peoples, the formation was brought to broader public attention in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and received federal protection in 1910 to preserve its natural and cultural values.
The monument sits in southern Utah near Lake Powell and Navajo Mountain; the most common visitor route is by boat across Lake Powell to the trailhead, or by longer hiking routes that approach through surrounding canyons.
- Access: Most visitors reach the site by boat across Lake Powell to a trailhead at the bridge’s downstream side; there are also longer backcountry hiking approaches from surrounding canyons.
Nearby Attractions to Rainbow Bridge National Monument
Best Time to Visit Rainbow Bridge National Monument
Visit in spring or fall for the most comfortable temperatures and the easiest hikes to Rainbow Bridge.
Weather & Climate near Rainbow Bridge National Monument
Rainbow Bridge National Monument's climate is classified as Cold Desert - Cold Desert climate with hot summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -3°C to 36°C. Very dry conditions with minimal rainfall.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | - | -3° - 7° | 0° | 11 mm | - | - | 1.9 m/s | - | - |
| February | - | -1° - 11° | 3° | 9 mm | - | - | 2.2 m/s | - | - |
| March | - | 3° - 16° | 8° | 12 mm | - | - | 3.0 m/s | - | - |
| April | - | 7° - 21° | 14° | 9 mm | - | - | 3.4 m/s | - | - |
| May | - | 12° - 27° | 20° | 9 mm | - | - | 3.5 m/s | - | - |
| June | - | 17° - 34° | 26° | 4 mm | - | - | 3.4 m/s | - | - |
| July | - | 21° - 37° | 29° | 17 mm | - | - | 3.0 m/s | - | - |
| August | - | 20° - 35° | 27° | 21 mm | - | - | 2.7 m/s | - | - |
| September | - | 15° - 29° | 22° | 16 mm | - | - | 2.6 m/s | - | - |
| October | - | 8° - 22° | 15° | 20 mm | - | - | 2.3 m/s | - | - |
| November | - | 2° - 13° | 6° | 12 mm | - | - | 2.2 m/s | - | - |
| December | - | -3° - 7° | 2° | 10 mm | - | - | 1.9 m/s | - | - |
How to Get to Rainbow Bridge National Monument
Rainbow Bridge National Monument is most commonly visited by boat from Lake Powell: public and charter boat tours depart from Wahweap Marina (Page, Arizona) and from Halls Crossing on the Utah side; the boat trip from Wahweap is a multi-hour ride across Lake Powell to the bridge. There is also a remote backcountry hiking approach over desert terrain (an arduous multi-mile route) - check National Park Service guidance for seasonal access and any required permits before attempting the overland route.
Tips for Visiting Rainbow Bridge National Monument
- Most visitors arrive by boat from Lake Powell (Wahweap or Bullfrog marinas); book an early-morning boat tour to avoid afternoon heat and the larger late-day crowds.
- If you plan the long foot approach from the Navajo Mountain side, check current access rules with the Navajo Nation beforehand-some hiking routes require permits or guides.
- Before you travel, check Lake Powell water levels and tour operator schedules; low water can change boat routes and shore access to the bridge.