A Desert Oasis
Nestled amidst the rugged red rocks of the American Southwest lies a true gem of natural wonder: Lake Powell. With its stunning blue waters, towering sandstone cliffs, and endless opportunities for adventure, navigating Lake Powell makes for a destination like no other. Spanning the border between Utah and Arizona, this man-made reservoir is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts.
Whether you’re seeking thrilling water sports, serene houseboat cruises, or a peaceful retreat into nature’s embrace, Lake Powell offers something for every traveler.
Getting There
Lake Powell is located near several major cities in the Southwest, including Las Vegas, Phoenix, and Salt Lake City. The nearest major airport is located in Page, Arizona (PGA), just a short drive from the lake. From Page, you can easily access the various marinas and recreation areas around Lake Powell. Alternatively, many visitors opt for a road trip, relishing the chance to soak in the stunning vistas.
Best Time to Visit
While Lake Powell is enchanting and stunning year-round unless you’re a fan of being on a very crowded lake, the optimal time to navigate Lake Powell is during the spring and fall months. You have the benefit of mild weather and thinner crowds. Plus, if you’re camping, the evenings are slightly cooler than during the hottest summer months, so the heat doesn’t keep you up all night.
Summer brings the highest influx of visitors, so be prepared for more crowded conditions and higher accommodation prices. And with the strength of the summer sun, you’ll want to pack LOTS of sunscreen.
Where to Stay
Whether you prefer camping under the stars or relaxing in luxury accommodations (ahem, like me), Lake Powell offers a variety of suitable options.
Campgrounds
You’ll find a selection of designated campgrounds around the lake, and most of them provide stunning views of the red-rock canyons. Just make sure to make Lake Powell camping reservations if you intend to stay in a formal campground. Or, if you don’t mind a more rustic experience, stake a spot on one of the lake’s many beaches or in a semi-private cove and make your Lake Powell tent camping spot there. Just be wary of camping in a wash because the first thunderstorm will absolutely wipe out your camp. (See example videos here.) You’ll recognize a wash by the gray and black water marks streaking the sides of the red rocks from top to bottom.
Houseboats
With over 2,000 miles of shoreline, one popular choice is to explore on a houseboat. You can cruise the lake at your leisure, stopping to swim, fish, or soak up the sun whenever and wherever you like. If you want, you can make camp in a different spot every night or find a great place to park and stay in a central location.
Several rental companies offer a range of houseboat options for navigating Lake Powell, from luxurious vessels equipped with all the comforts of home to more modest pontoons for a budget-friendly adventure. Just be sure to read the fine print because these vessels generally require you to bring your own bedding, towels, and food if you intend to camp aboard.
Hotels/Resorts
If camping isn’t your thing, you can opt for a more upscale experience at one of many resorts and lodges that provide amenities like pools, spas, and fine dining. Both Bullfrog and Wahweap Marinas are outfitted with resort rooms–such as the Lake Powell Marina Hotel in Wahweap–where travelers can catch some rest after a long day playing at the lake, or you can choose to stay at one of many, many hotel options in Page or a little bit further out in Kanab (on the Utah side).
Things to Do
1. Boating
I know I’ve mentioned this before, but Lake Powell is renowned for its boating opportunities. I cannot stress enough the size of this beautiful man-made lake. Remember, hundreds of miles of shoreline. Rent a houseboat, speed boat, or pontoon, and spend days cruising the lake, stopping to swim, fish, camp, or simply soak up the sun while navigating Lake Powell. This place has no end of possible ways to play.
2. Fishing
The fisherman in you will be thrilled about the variety of fish species in Lake Powell, including bass, trout, and catfish. Cast your line from the shore or venture out onto the water to reel in a catch.
3. Hiking
Lace up your boots (or water shoes if that’s all you brought) and hit the trails to discover the natural beauty of the surrounding desert landscape. There are a couple of really cool hiking trails that can only be reached by boat, like Rainbow Bridge and Three Roof Ruin. Other popular hikes include the Cathedral Wash Trail and the Horseshoe Bend Overlook Trail.
4. Kayaking and Paddleboarding
Look, I get that not everyone has a boat or can afford to rent one. It’s not cheap. But navigating Lake Powell can be done and enjoyed even without a boat. You can always rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the hidden coves and slot canyons of Lake Powell for a more intimate water experience.
5. Scenic Cruises
This is a vacation excursion experience like what you’d purchase from any other resort. I’ve never done one of these, but it’s on my list to hop aboard and relax on a scenic cruise of Lake Powell, while knowledgeable guides explain the area’s history and geology. They even offer Lake Powell sunset cruises, which seem pretty popular. How romantic would it be to watch the fiery hues of the desert sunset from a boat you’re not driving?
6. Photography
Lake Powell is a paradise for photographers with its dramatic landscapes and ever-changing light. You don’t even have to be a pro. I’ve never taken a photo here that hasn’t been stunning.
Navajo Canyon and Forgotten Canyon
For a glimpse into the region’s past, consider visiting the nearby ruins of the Ancestral Puebloans. The ancient dwellings of Navajo Canyon and Forgotten Canyon offer a fascinating window into the lives of the indigenous peoples who once called this area home. Plus, it’s just another one of those things you want to experience in person. Photos do it well, but it’s hard to feel the energy of a place from a photo, and these ruins feel sacred.
More Tips for a Memorable Trip Navigating Lake Powell
- Pack Accordingly: The desert climate around Lake Powell can be unforgiving, with scorching temperatures during the day and nights that vary from chilly to oven-like. To stay comfortable in the heat, pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, lightweight, breathable clothing, and–of course–a few swimsuits so you always have a dry one. (Side note: The dry heat in the area does allow things to dry reasonably quickly, so two or three swimsuits will still allow for overnight drying time if needed.)
- Stay Hydrated: With the strong desert sun and the dry air, staying hydrated is crucial, especially if you’re engaging in outdoor activities. Pack plenty of water and drink regularly to avoid dehydration. I cannot express this enough. Heat stroke is a real risk.
- Respect the Environment: Lake Powell and its surrounding landscapes are fragile ecosystems that deserve our respect and protection. To minimize your environmental impact, follow the Leave No Trace principles and properly dispose of waste.
- Book in Advance: Accommodations and rental services around Lake Powell can fill up quickly, especially during the peak summer months. Some houseboats are booked two or more years in advance, so you should consider booking your lodging and activities well in advance to have the best selection and availability. That said, if you look hard enough, managing a last-minute Lake Powell run is still possible. You may have to be semi-flexible about the type or level of accommodations, but it can be done, especially if you watch for last-minute cancellations.
You’ll Never Regret Seeing Lake Powell in Person
Ladies and gentlemen, there’s a reason Lake Powell has a cult-like following of people who visit yearly, if not more often. Even without the stunning natural beauty, the recreational opportunities are genuinely endless. Lake Powell offers an unforgettable experience for travelers of all ages and interests.
Whether you’re diving into a water sports adventure, exploring ancient ruins, or simply planning to relax on the deck of a houseboat as the sun sets over the red rock landscape, the memories you make in this place will be truly unforgettable. You may even become yet another Lake Powell addict. So pack your bags and hit the road. Get out and start navigating Lake Powell!