If you’re planning hikes around Page, Arizona, you’ll find everything from short overlooks to narrow slot canyons that feel otherworldly; you’ll want sturdy shoes, plenty of water, and a plan for sudden weather, because the light and rock here change fast and rewards come to those who time it right—keep going and I’ll map out the best routes, access tips, and safety notes so you can pick the hikes that match your time and appetite for adventure.
Antelope Canyon Slot Hike
Step into Antelope Canyon and you’ll feel like you’ve slipped into another world — narrow sandstone walls glow with bands of orange, red, and gold as light filters down from above. You’ll follow a winding slot carved by flash floods, moving single-file through smooth, sculpted rock that changes texture and hue with every step. Guided tours teach safety, geology, and Navajo cultural context, so you’ll learn why the canyon’s striations record ancient river flows and mineral deposits. Photography is rewarding but tricky: bring a tripod or steady your camera, use low ISO, and watch changing exposures when beams appear. Wear sturdy shoes and lightweight layers—temperatures shift quickly between sunlit rims and cool inner corridors. Keep hydration, respect ranger instructions, and avoid visiting during flash‑flood warnings. The hike is short but immersive; you’ll leave grounded by the canyon’s quiet power and vivid colors, carrying clear memories of its intimate, otherworldly spaces.
Horseshoe Bend Overlook Trail
Perched atop a red-rock rim just a short walk from the parking area, the Horseshoe Bend Overlook Trail gives you a sweeping, cinematic view of the Colorado River as it carves a dramatic horseshoe-shaped bend below. You’ll follow a short, sandy path with gentle undulations and minimal elevation gain — kids and most fitness levels handle it easily. Arrive early or late to avoid crowds and to catch warm sunrise or golden-hour light that makes the Navajo Sandstone glow. There’s no railing at the main overlook, so watch your footing near the edge; the drop is sheer and spectacular. Bring water, sun protection, and a wide-angle lens if you want to photograph the entire meander. Interpretive signs explain local geology and river dynamics, giving context to the view. The hike is brief but unforgettable: stand, listen to the wind, and let the scale of the canyon and river imprint itself on you before you continue exploring Page’s other wonders.
Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon Walks
Winding through narrow, sculpted sandstone walls, the Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon walks drop you into a surreal, light-filled world where beams, textures, and color shifts change by the minute. You’ll move with a guide through slot corridors carved by flash floods, watching smooth curves glow from pale gold to deep orange as sunlight slices down. The Upper is roomy, famous for dramatic light shafts; the Lower is more laddered and intimate, with tight squeezes and varied vantage points. Both demand respect for fragile rock and seasonal weather.
- Plan: book tours in advance, aim for mid-morning for light beams, and bring a wide-angle lens if you want photos.
- Pace: follow your guide, step carefully on uneven floors, and pause to absorb the shifting hues.
- Respect: stay on route, avoid touching walls, and heed flash flood warnings so your visit stays safe and unforgettable.
Hanging Garden Trail at Glen Canyon Dam
Carved into the red cliffs just downstream from Glen Canyon Dam, the Hanging Garden Trail gives you an unexpected patch of green in the high desert where seep springs feed ferns and cottonwoods clinging to moist rock. You’ll follow a short, easy path that curves past dripping walls, watch tiny waterfalls glitter, and feel cool air rise from shaded alcoves. Bring water, a camera, and steady shoes — the trail mixes slick stone and sandy footing. Birds flit through the foliage; the scent of wet earth contrasts with sunbaked canyon above. Interpretive signs explain the spring-fed ecology and the role of the dam in local hydrology. You can spend twenty minutes or linger longer, listening to the quiet and studying moss patterns. It’s accessible for most visitors and rewards you with close-up plant life that feels improbable here.
| Feature | Distance | Vibe |
|---|---|---|
| Trail length | 0.5 mile | Serene |
| Elevation | Minimal | Cool shade |
| Highlights | Ferns, seep springs | Intimate wildness |
Wahweap Hoodoos Loop
Start at the small, easy-to-miss trailhead off Wahweap Boulevard where parking is limited—arrive early or you’ll be circling looking for a spot. The loop winds among creamy sandstone hoodoos and spires that glow orange at golden hour, offering endless photo angles and close-up textures you can almost touch. Watch your step on loose rock, bring water and sun protection, and plan your hike for cooler morning or late-afternoon light to avoid heat and harsh shadows.
Trailhead and Parking
When you pull into the small gravel lot for the Wahweap Hoodoos Loop, you’ll find easy access to the trailhead and a clear kiosk with a map and current conditions—but parking fills fast on weekends and during golden-hour. You’ll step out into wide sky; the lot sits right at trail start, so you won’t have to hike in from a distant lot. Pay attention to signage about closures and vehicle limits.
- Arrive early or late afternoon midweek to snag shaded spots and avoid crowds.
- Use compact vehicles if possible—spaces are tight and turning radiuses can be tricky.
- If the lot’s full, park respectfully along the shoulder where allowed and keep access clear for emergency vehicles.
Hoodoos and Formations
After you lock up the car and head toward the trail, the landscape opens into a maze of slender hoodoos and sculpted fins that feel almost otherworldly; these sandstone pillars, mottled in cream, pink, and rust, rise from the flats and change with every step as light and shadow play across their faces. You’ll follow a looping path that threads between compact spires and broad ledges, giving you constant new angles for photos and study. Touch the weathered surfaces to feel grainy cross-bedding and ripple marks that record ancient dunes. Notice how erosion carves alcoves and mini-amphitheaters; each formation tells a story of wind, water, and time. The loop rewards slow observation and frequent stops to appreciate texture, color, and scale.
Safety and Timing
Because the desert sun can flip from pleasant to punishing in minutes, plan your hike around cooler hours and stay flexible with timing to avoid midday heat and crowds. You’ll want dawn or late afternoon for softer light on the hoodoos and for safer footing. Check weather, trail conditions, and park notices before you go.
- Start early: beat heat, catch dramatic shadows, and limit exposure to sun-scorched sand.
- Hydrate and ration: carry at least 1 liter per hour, salty snacks, and a quick electrolyte mix.
- Turn back smartly: if temperatures spike, wind picks up, or you feel off, don’t push — retreat to shade and reassess.
Carry sun protection, a map, and charged phone; leave your plan with someone.
Lake Powell Rim Walk (Page to Lone Rock)
Framing the town against the vast blue of Lake Powell, the Rim Walk from Page to Lone Rock lets you step out along sculpted sandstone ledges with uninterrupted water views and sudden drops that make every turn feel cinematic. You’ll follow a mostly unmarked route along the rim, so watch your footing on wind-polished rock and respect exposed sections—this isn’t the place to take shortcuts. Early morning or late afternoon delivers the best light: colors deepen, shadows carve the cliffs, and the breeze off the lake cools the air. Bring water, sun protection, sturdy shoes, and a map or GPS; cell service is unreliable. Wildlife sightings—raptors, lizards—add life to the landscape, and you can pause on benches of stone to soak in panoramic vistas of inlets, coves, and Lone Rock’s lone sentinel. The out-and-back distance is flexible; turn around when the view satisfies you or continue toward the lone shoreline for a quieter perspective.
Wire Pass and Buckskin Gulch Access
You’ll start at the Wire Pass trailhead off House Rock Valley Road, a sandy pullout that’s easy to miss unless you know the mile markers. Before you go, check permit rules and plan your timing—permits, summer heat, and flash-flood windows will dictate when you can enter Buckskin Gulch. Pack headlamps, a map, plenty of water, sturdy shoes, and a weather-aware mindset so you can move safely through the narrow, slot-carved canyon.
Trailhead Location Details
When you pull off the narrow dirt road to the Wire Pass trailhead, you’ll immediately notice the small signed turnout and the cluster of other vehicles — a reminder that this access point is popular and that parking can fill quickly, especially on weekends. You’ll find well-worn paths from the lot leading toward the wash and the obvious gate to Buckskin Gulch. Pay attention to landmarks so you don’t lose the trail on the way back.
- Trailhead amenities: a pit toilet, a bulletin board with route info, and room for about a dozen cars.
- Terrain to start: sandy wash, rock ledges, and occasional cairns marking the route.
- Navigation tips: note the sun angle and nearby sandstone fins to orient yourself.
Permit & Timing
After you note the landmarks at the trailhead and lock your car, check permit rules and timing before heading into Wire Pass or Buckskin Gulch — access is managed and conditions change quickly with weather and visitor numbers. You’ll need a permit for overnight trips and popular day sections; grab one online or at local offices, and confirm quota windows. Rangers post closures after storms and during high runoff — a dry wash can turn dangerous fast, so verify forecasts and recent trail reports. Arrive early to beat heat and limited slot times, and plan exit times to avoid being turned back by late permits. When rules change, adapt: it keeps these narrow canyons intact and you safe.
Safety & Gear Tips
Because narrow canyons can turn from tranquil to treacherous in minutes, gear and situational awareness are your best friends before you step into Wire Pass or Buckskin Gulch. You’ll check weather obsessively, read recent trip reports, and tell someone your exit time. Pack layers for swinging temperatures, sturdy shoes with ankle support, and a lightweight pack that won’t snag canyon walls.
- Carry 2–3 liters water, electrolyte tabs, a headlamp, map/GPS, and a basic first-aid kit.
- Bring a lightweight emergency shelter, whistle, and firestarter; signal options matter when cell service fails.
- Use trekking poles for stability on slickrock and sand; secure loose items against wind or wash.
Respect signs, turn back early, and hike conservatively.
Toadstools Trail in Grand Staircase-Escalante
Set among the wind-sculpted badlands of Grand Staircase-Escalante, the Toadstools Trail delivers a short, vivid hike that feels like wandering through a natural gallery of stone mushrooms and delicate hoodoos. You’ll follow a clearly marked, roughly half-mile loop over sandy soil and slickrock, so wear sturdy shoes with good traction. The formations rise just off the path, offering close-up views and excellent photo angles; arrive in morning or late afternoon for the best light and softer temperatures. You’ll notice subtle striations and balanced rocks that reveal erosion’s patient artistry, and the quiet lets you focus on texture, color, and scale. The trail is family-friendly but exposed — bring sun protection, water, and a hat. There are no facilities, so pack out trash and respect fragile surfaces. If you stick to the route and tread lightly, the Toadstools offer a compact, memorable taste of Grand Staircase’s otherworldly landscape.
Navajo Mountain Viewpoint Trail
You’ll be rewarded almost immediately with sweeping views of Navajo Mountain that feel cinematic against the desert sky. The trail is short but can be rocky and exposed, so bring sturdy shoes, sun protection, and plenty of water. Take your time on the overlooks—the light changes quickly and makes the sandstone and peaks pop.
Navajo Mountain Views
Navajo Mountain rises like a lone fortress on the horizon, and the Navajo Mountain Viewpoint Trail gives you a short, rewarding walk to that unforgettable view. You’ll stand on red sandstone ledges, feel warm wind against your face, and watch light sculpt the mountain’s buttes and mesas. Colors shift from ochre to deep purple as the sun moves, making every minute different.
- Sunrise: cooler air, soft gold on the summit—perfect for photos.
- Midday: vivid contrasts, clear outlines, easy to see geological layers.
- Sunset: long shadows, intense reds, a dramatic silhouette against the sky.
The viewpoint connects you to Navajo Country—listen for distant birdcalls and breathe the wide, open space.
Trail Difficulty & Tips
Although the trail is short and well-marked, it offers uneven sandstone surfaces and occasional loose gravel that demand steady footing, so plan to wear sturdy shoes and take your time on the slicker sections. You’ll gain elevation quickly, so pace yourself and breathe deeply as the vista expands—Navajo Mountain looms with crisp ridgelines against big sky. Bring sun protection; shade is scarce and glare off pale rock can be intense. Carry water even for this brief walk; the desert dehydrates you faster than you expect. Use trekking poles if balance worries you or after rain when surfaces turn slippery. Stay on the route to protect cryptobiotic soil. Snap photos from ledges but watch your step—exposure can be surprising near the viewpoint.
Rainbow Bridge Approaches and Shoreline Hikes
Set out from Page and you’ll quickly see why Rainbow Bridge feels like a hidden jewel—approaches range from short shoreline walks to full lake crossings, each serving up dramatic views of red sandstone cliffs, clear blue water, and the bridge’s soaring natural arch. You can choose a gentle shoreline stroll from nearby coves or plan a boat-and-hike trip that turns the journey into an all-day adventure. Pay attention to tide-like water levels and slick rock; sturdy shoes and sun protection matter. Bring water, a camera, and patience—wind can shape light and reveal unexpected colors on the bridge face.
Set out from Page to discover Rainbow Bridge—shoreline strolls or boat-and-hike adventures revealing red cliffs, blue water, and shifting light
- Boat access: Fast, scenic, minimal hiking; ideal if you want up-close views without miles of walking.
- Shoreline hikes: Variable distance, hiking over sand and slickrock; great for solitude and photography.
- Multi-segment trips: Combine paddling and hiking for exploration, longer vistas, and a stronger sense of discovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Permits Required for Backcountry Camping Near Page?
Yes — you’ll need permits for many backcountry campsites around Page, especially on Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and Navajo Nation lands; plan ahead, apply where required, and respect seasonal closures, quotas, and Leave No Trace rules.
What Wildlife Should Hikers Expect to See?
You’ll likely spot mule deer, coyotes, jackrabbits, and lizards, and you might catch golden eagles or red-tailed hawks — the theory that mountain lions roam cliffs is plausible but rare, so stay cautious and observant.
Are Dogs Allowed on These Trails?
Yes — you can bring dogs on many trails, but you’ll need to keep them leashed, carry water, and manage heat. You’ll encounter rocky terrain, narrow ledges, and wildlife; be ready to pack out waste and stay vigilant.
When Is the Best Time of Day to Avoid Crowds?
Early morning, just after sunrise, is best to avoid crowds; you’ll catch cool air, soft light, and quiet trails. Later, aim for late afternoon weekdays to dodge peak visitors, but watch for changing temperatures and shadows.
What Cellphone Reception and Emergency Services Are Available?
Cell service’s spotty—Verizon and AT&T work best, others might not; don’t expect bars. You’ll rely on satellite messengers or a PLB for real emergencies, and local search-and-rescue responds, but response times vary widely.
Conclusion
You’ve seen the best hikes near Page, Arizona — each trail a different chapter in a sunburned story. Pack water, sun protection, sturdy shoes and a plan; flash floods and heat are real. Walk the glowing slot canyons, peer over Horseshoe Bend, wander hoodoos and river shores, and follow quieter ridgelines to sweeping vistas. Like turning pages in a well-loved atlas, these trails unfurl wild, unforgettable views that’ll stay with you long after you leave.
