Arizona‘s natural wonder, deep chasm, and the Colorado River… All of these are guaranteed when you visit Horseshoe Bend.
Last updated: April 21, 2025
The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Horseshoe Bend, Arizona
If you’re looking for natural wonders in the state of Arizona beyond the famous Grand Canyon, then a visit to Horseshoe Bend is the answer to your search. This little miracle on the Colorado River gets a lot of attention. For the majority of travelers, a visit to Horseshoe Bend is an essential part of their Arizona road trip.
Arizona’s Natural Wonder
Horseshoe Bend is a meander of the Colorado River. Its unique shape reminds of a bend in the form of an extended circular arc known as horseshoe. Such similarity is remarkable and gives you goosebumps again and again.
Surprisingly, this natural wonder doesn’t have any official observation decks. Yet in this case, it’s an advantage rather than disadvantage. With the great number of travelers visiting Horseshoe Bend each year, the place reserves all its rim, packed with a plethora of unofficial lookouts, for observing the abyss from above.
Interesting Facts
For those who prefer some stats, the Horseshoe Bend overlook is about 4,200 feet above sea level. The Colorado River is 3,200 feet above sea level. Thus, it leaves you with a panoramic view of a 1,000-foot drop.
For mineralogists, I have another interesting thing you may want to know about Horseshoe Bend. The steep cliffs of this natural wonder contains a vast array of minerals, such as platinum garnet and hematite.
Horseshoe Bend Trail
The Horseshoe Bend Trail is partially paved. You can attempt hiking it with a stroller or wheelchair. The assistance along the unpaved section of the trail, however, may be needed.
- Distance: 0.7-mile, one-way trail
- Difficulty: Moderately difficult
- Time: 20-30 minutes
Visit Horseshoe Bend: Admission
The astounding landmark is located near Page, Arizona, along US Route 89. You can access it via 0.7-mile hike. The trailhead sits at the end of the parking lot. The trail is considered moderately challenging with the areas of deep sand and steep ascents.
When we visited Horseshoe Bend a few years ago, the site was free to explore, except for a round-trip shuttle ride that cost $5. The parking lot was still under construction. To get to the site, you had to hike from the nearest parking area, which was quite a walk, or ride a shuttle. We chose the latter.
The Horseshoe Bend Overlook is still free to visit today. Yet the City of Page charges a one-time parking fee, which ranges from $5 to 35 ($10 for passenger vehicles) and over $100 for full-size buses. No parking anywhere along Highway 89 is allowed.
Things to Know before Visiting Horseshoe Bend
- Hiking with Pets. Pets are allowed on the Horseshoe Bend Trail, but must be kept on leash at all times.
- Bring Lots of Water. The Horseshoe Bend Trail is a desert trail, completely exposed to the elements and scorching sun. In the summer, the temperatures can reach 110 degrees Fahrenheit and above.
