Extending from Lees Ferry, Arizona to the Orange Cliffs of Utah, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is an immense stretch of land that covers more than 1.2 million acres and hundreds of miles. This desert area, which is extremely hot in the summer and moderately cold in the winter, is both scenic and historic, providing amazing vistas, plenty of history, and lots of interest geologic areas.
Once home to prehistoric Indian cultures that lived in the canyons, Glen Canyon has been the site of much exploration through the centuries and, throughout the 19th century, was home to hearty prospectors, miners, and ranchers who had to deal with extreme temperatures and little human companionship. The canyon area was also home to a number of Mormon (Latter Day Saints) settlements.
The centerpiece of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is beautiful Lake Powell. This man-made lake, which measures 186 square miles, began filling in following the completion of a dam across the Colorado River near the south end of Glen Canyon in 1963. It wasn't totally full until about 1980. However, in 1972, the National Park Service decided to incorporate the lake and its surrounding countryside into a national recreation area. It has since become a popular tourist area, attracting those who enjoy watersports and fascinating backcountry experiences.
Lake Powell stretches from Page, Arizona to Hite, Utah but access to the lake by road is quite limited. Most of the water activities on the lake are concentrated at the western end near Page, including a marina, beaches, resort hotels, and campsites. Paved roads are also available at Bullfrog and Halls Crossing, where two marinas are located.
Boating is the most popular outdoor activity at Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. Visitors bring their own vessels or can rent one from local outfitters. Houseboating for an extended period of time is especially popular and an estimated two million people each year sail upon these crystal blue waters. Boaters or others who wish to fish should expect to find bass, crappie, walleye, bluegill, and catfish in Lake Powell. Kayaking is also enjoyed here, including sea kayaking and the whitewater variety. Many of the side canyons offer prime low-keyed trips with great scenery while the water below the dam might provide a more vigorous rowing experience.
For 4-Wheel-Drive aficionados, a chance to tackle the Burr Trail or the Hole-in-the-Rock Road will provide plenty of excitement and a little bit of danger. These off-road areas are best tackled by experienced 4WD drivers and can be especially treacherous in the rain and hot weather.
Those who prefer to travel on foot can take advantage of several day hikes, ranging from easy to difficult, as well as multi-day backcountry treks. A few interpretive loops, like the Agua Tierra Trail, offer an opportunity to explore the flora of the area as well as local culture, along a paved route that's accessible to all visitors.
For history buffs, a visit to Lees Ferry should be included on the itinerary. This area figured prominently in the settlement of northern Arizona and visitors can explore the old Lonely Dell Ranch located here.
Guided houseboat tours of Lake Powell are available from local concessionaires as are flat water float trips. Guests may also tour the Glen Canyon Dam on a one-hour guided tour that travels into the interior of the dam and the generator rooms. This tour is free of charge.
Visitor services, including restaurants and lodging, are available in the marina areas and a very informative Visitors Center helps guests navigate the recreation area.
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