Glen Canyon Dam
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Page, AZ, 86040
In the 1950s and ‘60s, the Colorado River’s roaring waters needed to be harnessed for power and water, so the towering 710-foot-tall (216-meter) Glen Canyon Dam was built. The resulting 186-mile-long (299-kilometer) Lake Powell, the second-largest artificial lake in the US, took more than a decade to fill to capacity. Today, the dam provides hydroelectric power to the American West.
The Basics
The Glen Canyon Dam is located within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, where some 3 million tourists visit each year for outdoor fun. Guided tours of the dam give visitors a behind-the-scenes look at the engineering marvel, while the Carl Hayden Visitor Center offers interactive exhibits and a relief map of the Glen Canyon region.
Combine your visit to the dam with a rafting trip along the Colorado River or a tour of Antelope Canyon.
Things to Know Before You Go
Glen Canyon Dam is a must-see for history buffs and those with an interest in engineering.
Day trips to the dam and other area attractions from Sedona, Flagstaff, or the Grand Canyon can last several hours.
Bags and purses are not permitted on tours of the dam.
How to Get There
Tours of the dam depart from the Carl Hayden Visitor Center off Highway 89 in the town of Page, Arizona. The easiest way to get there is to drive or join a guided tour from Page, Sedona, Flagstaff, or the Grand Canyon.
When to Get There
The best time to explore the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and enjoy the waters of Lake Powell is during the fall season, when weather is mild and crowds are thin. Dam tours take place throughout the year and are a good option to escape the heat on a summer afternoon or during the odd monsoon shower.
Other Attractions in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
Glen Canyon Dam isn’t the only point of interest within this national park. Visitors can go boating on Lake Powell, learn about Mormon pioneer life at Lees Ferry Historic District, or visit Rainbow Bridge, one of the world’s largest natural bridges. Those craving a wilderness adventure can opt to explore Escalante or the Orange Cliffs.
Ways to explore
The Glen Canyon Dam is located within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, where more than 3 million tourists visit each year for outdoor fun. Kick off your visit at the Carl Hayden Visitor Center, which offers interactive exhibits and a relief map of the Glen Canyon region. Combine your visit to the dam with a rafting trip along the Colorado River or a tour of Antelope Canyon. This area is rife with outdoor things to do, from rafting and hiking to boating and more.
Accessibility
The Carl Hayden Visitor Center is fully wheelchair accessible, with accessible parking, restrooms, and exhibits. Dam tours involve stairs and are not accessible.
Age limits
None
What to pack
Clear water bottle, sunscreen, camera, binoculars, outdoor gear if kayaking
What to wear
Comfortable walking shoes with closed toes (good idea for dam tours), layered clothing that’s breathable, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
Not allowed
Large bags or backpacks, weapons, pocket knives, aerosols, glass containers (clear water bottles welcome), recording on dam tours
Amenities
Visitor center with exhibits and bookstore, restrooms, free parking, picnic areas, information desk
AddressÂ
The Glen Canyon Dam is located just outside Page, Arizona. The dam spans the Colorado River, creating Lake Powell, a popular spot for recreation and water activities. It’s easiest to get there by car.
Driving
It’s about a two-hour drive, give or take, to the Glen Canyon Dam from both Flagstaff and the Grand Canyon. Free parking is available at the Carl Hayden Visitor Center.
Public transportation
While most visitors drive, it is possible to take a Quality Connections Express bus (Route F) from Page to the visitor center. Alternatively, book an organized tour that includes round-trip transportation from Page.
Best times to visit
Arrive early in the morning (8–10am) or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and tour bus crowds.
Best days to visit
Weekdays tend to offer the quietest experience, with shorter wait times for tours, less crowded viewing areas, and lighter boat traffic.
Best months to visit
March through May and September through November offer more comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds than summer.
Special events
There are no regular festivals at the dam itself, but nearby Page offers festivals and events, including the Page-Lake Powell Balloon Regatta in November.
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