Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend is a U-shaped section of the Colorado River in Arizona, part of the Glen Canyon. It's named "Horseshoe Bend" because the rocks surrounding the bend resemble a horseshoe. Some also call it the Colorado River's Great Bend.
To capture the full view of Horseshoe Bend, you must stand on the opposite cliff. However, everything here is completely natural. There are no tickets, no staff, and certainly no guardrails as you might imagine. Therefore, tourists move very carefully along the cliff edge, and no one even speaks loudly. The scenery of Horseshoe Bend is ever-changing. At noon, it is often a bay of clear water, while in the evening, the river water reflects the colors of the surrounding rock walls, making it even more charming in its depth.

Attractions Location: Arizona, USA: 86040

Tickets:
The fees for Horseshoe Bend are as follows:
Motorcycle: $5
Car or RV: $10
Commercial van/bus: (14 or fewer passengers) $35
Commercial bus: (15-35 passengers) $70
Commercial bus: (with more than 35 passengers) $140

Transportation:
Drive south from Page along Highway 89 for less than 10 minutes and you will find a large parking lot on the right. After parking the car, you can only see the true appearance of Horseshoe Bend by climbing over a hill.

Time reference: 1-3 hours


Recommended itinerary for Horseshoe Bend tours

1-Day Itinerary: Horseshoe Bend Highlights

Spend a day visiting Horseshoe Bend, one of the most iconic natural landmarks near Page, Arizona, with stunning views of the Colorado River.

  • Morning: Arrive at Horseshoe Bend parking area. Hike about 1.5 miles round trip to the viewpoint (allow 1-1.5 hours).
  • Afternoon: Visit nearby Glen Canyon Dam and Visitor Center (5-minute drive from Horseshoe Bend).
  • Late afternoon: Walk around Page town center for shopping and dining.

Transportation: Rent a car from Page or Flagstaff. Horseshoe Bend is about 5 miles (10 minutes) from Page.

Accommodation/Food: Stay in Page, AZ. Recommended dining: Big John’s Texas BBQ, Blue Buddha Sushi Lounge.

Souvenirs: Horseshoe Bend postcards, Native American crafts, Colorado River-themed souvenirs.


2-Day Itinerary: Horseshoe Bend & Antelope Canyon

Explore the breathtaking Horseshoe Bend and the nearby Antelope Canyon, famous for its slot canyon formations and light beams.

  • Day 1: Follow the 1-day Horseshoe Bend itinerary.
  • Day 2: Take a guided tour of Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon (book in advance). Afternoon visit to Lake Powell Marina for boat tours or water activities.

Transportation: Rental car recommended. Antelope Canyon tours depart from Page (within 15 min drive).

Accommodation/Food: Stay in Page. Try Rainbow Room for local dining.

Souvenirs: Antelope Canyon photography prints, Native American jewelry, local pottery.


3-Day Itinerary: Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon & Lake Powell

Enjoy the natural wonders and recreational activities around Page, including Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, and Lake Powell.

  • Days 1-2: Follow the 2-day itinerary.
  • Day 3: Full day on Lake Powell—rent a boat, kayak, or join a guided boat tour to Rainbow Bridge National Monument.

Transportation: Rental car and boat rentals from Page or Lake Powell Marina.

Accommodation/Food: Stay in Page or Wahweap Lodge by Lake Powell. Dining options: Dam Bar & Grill.

Souvenirs: Lake Powell branded merchandise, boating accessories, Navajo art.


4-Day Itinerary: Horseshoe Bend & Surrounding Natural Attractions

Combine Horseshoe Bend with nearby natural parks and landmarks for an immersive outdoor experience.

  • Days 1-3: Follow 3-day itinerary.
  • Day 4: Visit Vermilion Cliffs National Monument and Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness for hiking and photography (about 1 hr drive).

Transportation: Rental car required for remote access to Vermilion Cliffs.

Accommodation/Food: Stay in Page or Kanab, UT (approx. 45 minutes from Vermilion Cliffs). Dining in Kanab: Rocking V Cafe.

Souvenirs: Geology-themed gifts, local crafts, hiking gear.


5-Day Itinerary: Horseshoe Bend & Grand Canyon West Rim

Explore Horseshoe Bend and take a trip to Grand Canyon West Rim for the famous Skywalk and spectacular canyon views.

  • Days 1-4: Follow 4-day itinerary.
  • Day 5: Drive to Grand Canyon West Rim (approx. 2 hours from Page). Experience Skywalk, Eagle Point, and Guano Point.

Transportation: Rental car or guided tour from Page.

Accommodation/Food: Stay in Page or Kingman, AZ. Food at West Rim is available in cafes and restaurants.

Souvenirs: Grand Canyon memorabilia, Native American jewelry, Skywalk branded items.


6-Day Itinerary: Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon & Nearby National Parks

Extend your visit to include nearby parks like Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon for a comprehensive southwestern nature experience.

  • Days 1-5: Follow 5-day itinerary.
  • Day 6: Drive to Zion National Park, Utah (about 2 hours from Page). Explore Zion Canyon by shuttle or hiking.

Transportation: Rental car essential for the regional trip.

Accommodation/Food: Stay in Springdale, UT near Zion. Dining options include Oscar’s Cafe.

Souvenirs: Zion-themed apparel, local crafts, hiking gear.


7-Day Itinerary: Complete Horseshoe Bend & Southwest Adventure

Spend a week visiting Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, Lake Powell, Vermilion Cliffs, Grand Canyon West, Zion, and Bryce Canyon National Parks.

  • Days 1-6: Follow 6-day itinerary.
  • Day 7: Visit Bryce Canyon National Park (about 1.5 hours from Zion). Enjoy scenic viewpoints and hiking.

Transportation: Rental car for full regional exploration.

Accommodation/Food: Stay in Page or nearby towns based on daily plans. Dining available throughout parks and towns.

Souvenirs: Bryce Canyon memorabilia, Native American crafts, Southwestern art.


User Reviews

By HeyFlour |

It takes about 15 minutes to walk to Horseshoe Bend, which is suitable for taking pictures when the weather is good. To be honest, taking pictures is more valuable than visiting.

There weren't many people visiting during the spring break in March, so you can get a good view to take pictures. It's enough to stay for about half an hour or an hour, but there aren't many views to enjoy.

By Franceszzz |

Parking is no longer allowed, so you have to take the shuttle, which is supposedly $5 per person. You can drop off passengers, and the driver will park the car. I think there will be a parking fee later, but seeing the sign saying $5 per car is fine.

The road was long and difficult to walk on, and it was all sandy.

There are shadows in the morning, it should be very beautiful at noon

By Mico |

Tips: Everything at Horseshoe Bay is completely natural. There's no entrance fee, no staff, and even fewer guardrails than you might expect, so be sure to pay attention when taking photos. Horseshoe Bay is a bit shy in the morning (noon is the best time for photos). Even though it's early autumn morning, the uphill walk to and from the parking lot still made me sweat. The direct sunlight is completely unshaded. Imagine what it would be like in the middle of summer. Tip: Always wear sunscreen, or you'll definitely get a sunburn.

By zhouzhou |

The parking spot on Google Maps is no longer available due to construction. To get to Horseshoe Bay, you have to go some distance away. There's a new parking lot. You need to take a special bus from there for $5 per person, which is essentially a fee. If you need to go, you can park there, but if you arrive early, they might not be there. The bus runs from 10:00 to 17:00.

By Little Fatty 777777 |

Horseshoe Bend is free to enter and is a 15-minute walk from the parking lot. In terms of stunning beauty, Horseshoe Bend is unmatched in the Colorado River Basin.

The bend of Horseshoe Bend is quite large, and the river is wider, which makes the visual effect better and the photography more dangerous. Many people take photos by lying on the ground. Although the posture is not good-looking, it is actually the safest. There are also cruise ships passing by on the river. I wonder what the perspective is like from below.

The angle for taking photos in the morning is not very good, maybe it will be better at noon or in the afternoon.

By Jennie |

It's right next to Page, a five-minute drive away. There's a parking lot on the side of the road, and then you follow the crowd over a small hill. It's a 15-minute walk to the spot, though it's a bit strenuous because it's sandy. It's neither too hot nor too cold this season, so you don't sweat much, unlike the summer sweaty mess.

You should also visit Horseshoe Bend at noon so that the sunlight can shine directly on it, and the red rock walls and the turquoise water can show its magnificence.

By Miss CX |

Although Horseshoe Bay is famous both at home and abroad, it is still a wild tourist attraction. When Mr. Liu first came three years ago, there were no railings, not even parking lots and trails. Now it has been slightly renovated.

It takes about ten to fifteen minutes to walk from the parking lot to the edge of Horseshoe Bay, which leads directly to the best vantage point. However, there are now railings here, so walking left or right is more primitive. You can sit on the edge of the cliff to take pictures and enjoy the infinite scenery!

It takes about 40 minutes to walk along the edge of the cliff and take photos. Including the parking time, you only need to reserve an hour for this attraction. It can be arranged to visit the Upper and Lower Antelope Canyons on the same day.

It takes less than 10 minutes to drive from Lower Antelope Canyon to Horseshoe Bend. You can navigate there by searching for "Horseshoe Bend" on Google Maps.

By McDull's Holiday |

Standing on the protruding rock and moving forward cautiously, the true appearance of Horseshoe Bend appears before your eyes. The Colorado River magically makes a U-shaped turn here, as if it were made by nature.

As the light changes, the rocks and river water take on different colors. When the sun is about to set and the light is the softest, the dark green river water and the ochre-red rocks reach their highest saturation, and the two complement each other, creating a spectacular sight.

What surprised me was that Horseshoe Bend, a well-known attraction, has no entrance fee, no staff, and even no guardrails. Visitors can admire the untouched, authentic Horseshoe Bend and stand on the edge of the cliff, feeling the sheer majesty of nature. This is a truly unique experience.

This jutting rock is the perfect spot for panoramic views of Horseshoe Bend. I thought my legs would give out if I stood there, but I was so brave I almost couldn't believe it and actually made it to the edge! Haha, it feels like every trip is a chance to push my limits. From the trembling steps of Angkor Wat in Cambodia, to the trepidation of climbing the pagoda in Myanmar, to now standing on the edge of a cliff, constantly challenging what I thought was impossible is part of the charm of travel.

By A heart free from dust and dirt |

The most common red sandstone is located around Horseshoe Bend, which appears dark red under the sunlight, while the canyon is filled with turquoise river water.

I always thought there were no railings on the observation deck, but it's actually quite safe. Of course, some tourists take risks, putting themselves in harm's way just to get a cool photo. It's said that accidents happen here every year.

By Wu Qingyun |

Horseshoe Bend is a horseshoe-shaped bend in the Colorado River near Page, Arizona, USA. It lies downstream from Glen Canyon Dam and Lake Powell, 6 kilometers from Page. A 1.2-kilometer hike from U.S. Highway 89 leads to Horseshoe Bend, where the best views are from atop a steep cliff. The cliffs are 4,200 feet above sea level, while the Colorado River is 3,200 feet above sea level, a drop of 1,000 feet.

I went to see the sunrise over Horseshoe Bay early in the morning. The sun lifted the veil of Horseshoe Bay, but the moon was reluctant to leave. My cell phone service was completely gone, but the time display kept jumping between Mountain Time and Pacific Time. It was really intoxicating. At noon, the sun shone into the bay, and the azure waters enveloped the entire Horseshoe Bay.

By the way, you can't see the sunrise at the location of Horseshoe Bay, you can only see the sunset

By Adrian.Z |

Horseshoe Bend is very close to the town of Page, and can be reached in just over 10 minutes by car. When visiting Page, you can't miss Antelope Canyon, and secondly, you must visit Horseshoe Bend. The unique topography of the place makes it stunning.

I love this place so much, it’s a pure natural and wonderful picture, and the wonders of nature perfectly blend colors and shapes here.

There's no entrance fee to Horseshoe Bend, and parking is free. It takes about ten minutes to walk to the bay, so be sure to bring water if you're visiting during the day. While the distance isn't too long, it's a dry, desert road. If you want to capture a panoramic view of Horseshoe Bend, you'll need a wide-angle lens.

We went to Horseshoe Bend early in the morning to watch the sunrise.

Horseshoe Bend became the "appetizer" of our visit to Antelope Canyon, but this appetizer was not small at all, it was super spectacular.

The day before, when we arrived in Page, we passed by Horseshoe Bay. It happened to be just after sunset, and the streets were packed with cars. Those who want to watch the sunset here should plan their time carefully, as it's expected to be crowded. Sunrise was relatively quiet, with a moderate number of visitors. Watching the sunset from Horseshoe Bay is sure to be stunning, as the horizon is oriented westward, and the sun should be setting "behind" the bay. The changing light at sunset will surely highlight the beautiful colors.

Legend has it that the color of the water at Horseshoe Bend changes with the light, creating a breathtaking and beautiful sight when paired with the reddish color of the sandstone. There are no guardrails or staff here, so be cautious. Drones are also not allowed at this attraction.

By Little Rabbit LARA |

Horseshoe Bend is not far from Antelope Canyon. Not only is it free, but more importantly, although it only has one viewing point, it is hard to find a second one in the world that is as shocking as this point.

After getting off the bus, you need to walk one kilometer. The first view point you enter has a fence installed, and many people gather there to take pictures. Continue walking to the right, there is a better view point there, and there will be fewer people.

By Big-faced cat |

Horseshoe Bend is a U-shaped section of the Colorado River and a small section of the Glen Canyon. It is called "Horseshoe Bend" because the boulders surrounding the bend resemble a horseshoe.

By Timothy Tianshuo |

Next up was Upper Antelope Canyon. We only chose Upper Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend, skipping Lower Antelope Canyon, which was a bit of a shame. Lake Powell, also near Page, is a reservoir above Powell Dam, upstream of Horseshoe Bend, but we didn't visit it. Due to time constraints, we continued on to Horseshoe Bend. We only caught a glimpse of Lake Powell on the way to Monument Valley and didn't get to take photos. If I come back next time, I'd love to take a slower walk around Lake Powell, take in the dam, and admire the winding Colorado River at Lower Powell.



Horseshoe Bend's iconic landscape rivals the Grand Canyon's. Photographing it requires a wide-angle lens, or you can use Adobe Lightroom Classic's Photo Merge function. While Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is part of the national park system, a national park pass doesn't exempt you from parking fees. The parking lot is managed by the city, so you'll need to buy a parking ticket, which I believe cost around $15.



Horseshoe Bend is part of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area (part of the National Park System). Currently, all attractions are open, but indoor attractions are prohibited: ***

By weiwen0072 |

Horseshoe Bend is a U-shaped section of the Colorado River in Arizona, and is also a small section of the Glen Canyon. Because the huge rocks surrounding the river bend resemble a horseshoe, it is called "Horseshoe Bend", also known as "Horseshoe Bend" and some people call it the Big Bend of the Colorado River.

On the way from the Grand Canyon to Horseshoe Bend, we passed by Little Colorado Canyon and took a look. This scenic area is under development and there are very few tourists.

By Jiao Youyou |

If you want to take a full picture of Horseshoe Bay, you must stand on the cliff opposite, but everything here is purely natural, there are no tickets and no staff, and there are very few places like this with guardrails.

By Zibing Yimeng |

Horseshoe Bend is a U-shaped section of the Colorado River in Arizona, and is also a small section of the Glen Canyon. Because the huge rocks surrounding the river bend resemble a horseshoe, it is called "Horseshoe Bend", also known as "Horseshoe Bend" and some people call it the Big Bend of the Colorado River.

By Dongfang Min |

Horseshoe Bend is less than a ten-minute drive from Lower Antelope Canyon, making it a worthwhile stop after exploring the canyon. There's no entrance fee, but parking is $10 per vehicle per visit. There are no other services. The hike up to the bend takes about 15 minutes. The scenery is unique and well worth a visit. Photography enthusiasts will definitely appreciate it. The cliffs are very steep, so be careful, especially if you're traveling with children.

By Cape of Good Hope |

After visiting Antelope Canyon, we came to Horseshoe Bend. We saw a lot of tourists around the Horseshoe Bend Observation Deck, and tourists were either taking photos or selfies. You can imagine how famous Horseshoe Bend is. In fact, Horseshoe Bend is where the river flows through. The reddish-brown canyon makes a sharp 360-degree turn on the Colorado River bed, cutting out a horseshoe-shaped canyon, hence the name Horseshoe Bend.

By AzureFlame |

From above, I watched the Colorado River quietly make a perfect bend in the distance below. It was a breathtaking sight! The river was a dark green in the morning, and I wondered what color it would be by noon.



The parking lot seems to charge $10. It takes about 10 to 20 minutes to walk from the parking lot. The road is not difficult to walk, but the second half is a dirt road.



If you go in the morning, it's not as hot, so forgetting water is fine. During the afternoon and afternoon hours, it's recommended to bring a bottle of water for the journey. We even saw someone bringing their dog along, and they said they were lucky it was morning, otherwise they would have had to carry a bottle of water for the dog as well.

By Metasequoia |

Entering the public parking lot, I couldn't imagine seeing the Colorado River from here. The endless yellow desert didn't even connect with water. Following the crowds, as we climbed to the top of the dunes, I could already see a dense crowd of heads in the distance. The number of people I saw at that moment was dozens of times greater than I'd encountered previously while crossing the Grand Canyon! Excited, I swooped down from the summit, running furiously up the slope for a while before I saw the guardrail and the chasm ahead.

The Colorado River, like a turquoise silk ribbon, twists and turns gracefully through the canyon. It happens to make a sharp 180-degree turn here, forming a U-shaped channel resembling a horseshoe, hence the name. The canyon is so deep that it's difficult to see if the water is flowing. Curious individuals often bravely step over the guardrails and walk to the ledge to explore. The morning mist still shrouds this section of the river, making the view dizzying even from a distance. The cliff edge offers a perfect photo spot, capturing the entire Horseshoe Bend. Although it's not crowded, you have to wait for those in front of you to finish posing.

By Cookie |

Free sightseeing spot. Photos can't capture the essence of the scene!

By liulaomao |

The parking lot is charged, not close, exposed to the sun, and crowded. It has become a must-see for tour groups. It is definitely not worth going.

By imel8350 |

A standard internet celebrity attraction. I hope you can enter and exit the parking lot freely when there is no shuttle. Go early in the morning or late in the evening to catch the sunrise and red Vermilion Cliff or the sunset and Horseshoe Bend for a unique experience.

By Wang Xia Castiel |

Horseshoe Bay is still possible, but it requires a hike, and you should pay attention to safety when viewing the attractions.

By frozen rice |

The wind is very strong and it is very cold in winter. Horseshoe Bay is fenced and very safe.

By Fish Flower |

It is a U-shaped river channel of the Colorado River. The huge rocks surrounded by the river channel are shaped like a horseshoe.

By Ollie 54tc |

After getting off the bus and climbing over a slope, the feeling of being suddenly exposed to the world was amazing. Many people were taking pictures at the edge of the cliff, but I was very timid and kept a distance of more than one meter from the cliff.

By A fish |

Seeing this mountain, we knew Horseshoe Bay was right before our eyes. Horseshoe Bay is beautiful, and if you're brave enough to walk to the cliff edge, you'll have a fantastic view and experience. I don't know the name of the river surrounding Horseshoe Bay, but a few cruise ships passed by, and the people on board must have enjoyed this tranquil experience.

By millet grains |

Horseshoe Bend is actually a 15-minute walk from the parking lot. The entrance sign says you need to bring water because you have to climb a small hill and the air is very dry, so you'll need to drink water. It's a free attraction and doesn't take long to get to. It's only an 8-minute walk from Antelope Canyon to the parking lot.

By cillllllling |

Horseshoe Bay is located in the small town of Page, less than 10 minutes’ drive away. After getting off the car, you have to climb a mountain to see Horseshoe Bay.

Horseshoe Bend is not very beautiful in the morning, as most of it is in the shadows. If you want to go to Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon together, it is recommended to go to Antelope Canyon first and then to Horseshoe Bend. Horseshoe Bend will definitely be more spectacular under the midday sun!

I was really sunburned! Friends visiting Horseshoe Bay, remember to bring sunglasses.

By Eat potatoes with a heart that never changes |

Here it is a completely different scene, the rocks shine a beautiful metallic red, blending into the emerald green of the surrounding Colorado River, which flows slowly as if at rest.

By Cici |

Perhaps due to the composition of the soil, Page's landscape is almost entirely a uniform orange-red, changing shades of color with the rising and setting sun. This area, on the other hand, is a deep, emerald green, seemingly slicing through the mountains, flowing smoothly through them, creating a strikingly deep, understated, and commanding presence. To capture a magnificent panoramic view, you'll need to approach the cliffs, and a wide-angle lens is even better. Besides marveling at the sheer scale of nature, watching the creativity and imagination of people from around the world compete here is a truly breathtaking spectacle.

There are no fences or other safety measures here. Although it allows tourists to get close to these natural masterpieces, people die every year. So before you want to risk your life to shape the rock, it is necessary to carefully examine the rock structure and find a stone that has stood the test of time.

I boast of walking on a glass cliff walkway and leaping 5,000 meters high, claiming I'm not afraid. But when I actually stand on the edge, I still unconsciously bend my knees and lower my center of gravity. It's true that being cool doesn't last for more than three seconds. There's this indescribable, magical feeling that makes me lean forward. The feeling of vertigo may vary from person to person, but it's real. That's why the line in "The Ventriloquist": "My legs tremble, almost wanting to leave" is so vividly portrayed.

By Normal |

It was really shocking to walk to the edge of the cliff. I have to sigh at the wonders of nature.

By Candice |

The town of Page felt a bit like a small northeastern county town to me. It's a bit remote, but it's home to two of Arizona's most important attractions: Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon. Horseshoe Bend, a U-shaped section of the Colorado River in Arizona, is just over a 10-minute drive from town. The attraction itself is free, but when we visited, the parking lot in front of Horseshoe Bend wasn't open. We walked a little further to a private paid parking lot, which cost $20. We then took their convertible to the attraction. Upon arrival, we had to climb a small hill and walk a little further to see it. There was a sign next to the hill reminding visitors to bring a bottle of water. Fortunately, we arrived in winter; if we had come in the summer, we'd probably get heatstroke after an hour of touring in 40-degree heat. The geology here is similar to that of the Grand Canyon, both reddish-brown. Looking down from the dozens-meter-high cliffs, a small section of emerald green river flows quietly at the base. Several large rocks jut out from the cliffs, allowing the brave to climb up and take bold photos or capture the entire attraction. For someone with a fear of heights like me, I could only watch from behind the railings. After a frenzy of snaps from every angle, it's time to head back. Allow an hour for the entire attraction.

By Lolo's Happy Face |

The advantage of having guardrails at Horseshoe Bend is that people like us who are afraid of heights can now watch without restraint.

The downside is that I can no longer exclude the photos of myself sitting on the cliff that will dominate my social media feed, haha. The water in Horseshoe Bay at noon is turquoise, and there are even yachts there.

TIPS

1. Horseshoe Bay is a wild attraction and no entrance fee is required.

2. A fence has now been built around Horseshoe Bay, so those who are afraid of heights can also go there happily.

3. There is a parking lot below Horseshoe Bay, which is about a 20-minute walk from the parking lot.

4. The best time to view and photograph Horseshoe Bend is at noon. At noon, the sun shines directly down to the base of the cliffs, leaving no shadows. The sunlight illuminates the river green and the cliffs a vibrant metallic red.

By Zheng Zheng Li |

The Horseshoe Bay parking lot is under renovation, so you can only park in the private parking lot outside the scenic area, which costs $20 per car. There will be a shuttle bus to take you to the entrance of the scenic area.

It takes half an hour to get to Horseshoe Bay from the entrance over the red clay hill. Remember not to wear white shoes, as they will only make you cry.

The Horseshoe Bend was covered with a veil that day, losing some of its grandeur and adding some gentleness.

It takes courage to take pictures at Horseshoe Bend. You must be careful. I heard that a little girl fell there a few days ago.

By hyacinth |

The whole picture is clearer after the snow, but it is cold after the snow.

The river water is still flowing under the ice, and the blue sky is blocked by clouds, which is a bit of a pity.

By n-alkanes |

Maybe because I have seen too many photos, and Horseshoe Bay looks similar to Qiankun Bay in Shaanxi Province, China, so I was not very impressed by this place.

This is a ten-minute drive from Page town center. Currently, there's no entrance fee, but the area is currently undergoing road and parking lot construction. I wonder if this is in preparation for a fee. It's a popular attraction with travel agencies and is quite popular. We arrived near dusk in the afternoon, and the entire bay was in shadow. If you want more light in the bay, I recommend going midday.

Compared to Antelope Canyon, which requires more light and is best visited at noon, I personally don't think the timing of your visit to Horseshoe Bay is that important. The walk from the parking lot to the cliff edge of Horseshoe Bay takes just over ten minutes, and the path is quite easy. A wide-angle lens is essential for capturing the entirety of Horseshoe Bay.

The red rock face is paired with a bay of clear water, and the horseshoe-shaped rock formations surrounding the river bend are truly spectacular. Besides the standard check-in photos, various cliff edges are also great for taking photos, but be sure to pay attention to safety.

By Pig's Beans |

The scenery here is equally stunning, and it may be difficult to find a second scenery like it.

By 13908000567 |

It has shocked photographers all over the world. It presents a beautiful metallic red color under the sunlight, while the river here is turquoise. People stand on the cliff overlooking Horseshoe Bend, the 1,000-foot drop is magnificent and shocking!

By Heart dances with dreams |

Maybe we arrived a little early and the sun was shining in the wrong direction. Without the sun, the water in the bay looked dark and dull, with a little snow covering the rocks in the middle. The Horseshoe Bay we saw was not as beautiful as the photos we saw on WeChat Moments.

By Orchid grass zyq |

The parking lot for Horseshoe Bend is right off Highway 89. The round trip from the parking lot is about two hours. Even after seeing photos of Horseshoe Bend, I was still struck by the majestic horseshoe before me. To see the valley floor, you have to reach the edge of a cliff, which offers no protection. The clearest photos are taken by climbing the rock face.

By Zi Yuer |

The hike takes 15 minutes one way, with steep ups and downs. There's no shelter on the trail, so it's easy to run out of water due to the high temperatures, so each person should bring at least one bottle of water.

By zhangjy198 |

I walked with my head down, feeling depressed, until I saw the Horseshoe Bend. It was truly stunning, breathtaking, and breathtakingly beautiful. The intoxicating green of the Colorado River seemed to suck me in. Unfortunately, the tour group gave me too little time, so I could only take a few photos and then head back.

By blank_d |

There's no entrance fee to Horseshoe Bend!!! You absolutely have to come. I originally thought it didn't matter to me, but after going I was stunned. It's very photogenic, but it's really high up, and my legs were shaking the whole time.

Although there's no entrance fee, parking is difficult there. When we went there, many people parked on the side of the road, and the police came and ticketed them one by one. I heard the fine is around $200, so don't just park there because you see others park. There are two private parking lots nearby, and the parking fee is $20. They then arrange a small electric car to take you to the foot of Horseshoe Bend and pick you up again. This service is great. There were four of us in the car, so the service was $5 per person, which I think is a good deal.

By fanfanstefanie |

Horseshoe Bend is a U-shaped bend in the Colorado River. While there are many such bends, this one is particularly famous, and it's also a free attraction. The best time to view Horseshoe Bend is at noon, when the sun is directly overhead, creating a clear, shadow-free landscape. For those who want to capture stunning photos, visiting at noon is recommended. Since we had to rush to Vegas today, and considering the midday sun would be too intense, we set off at around 7:00 AM, eager to see the beauty.

Following the navigation, it said it would take 10 minutes, but the western road was barren on both sides, making it feel like we'd taken the wrong road. Kudos to Google Maps; it was right. We drove to a lot of parked cars, which turned out to be the Horseshoe Bend parking lot. Having read travelogues, we knew we had to walk there, and everyone reminded us to bring water. We parked, grabbed two bottles of water, and set off. We walked up the small dirt slope on the sandy beach, following the footsteps of others, and arrived at Horseshoe Bend in about 20 minutes. Standing at the edge of the exposed cliff was incredibly intimidating. Travelogues had warned us not to stand there, saying many people fall there every year, and the rocks at the edge were loose, making it a risk of slipping. We mustered up the courage to walk to the edge, and it was truly beautiful. The Colorado River, bathed in sunlight, shone a deep blue, punctuated by green, its U-shaped shape like a jeweled necklace. There were also river cruises, but I wondered where to get one. Morning is really not the best time to view the scenery. Most of the river water on both sides is in the shadows of the cliffs on both sides. There are also many photography enthusiasts lying on the edge of the cliffs with their cameras stretched out in a row. My legs are weak just watching them.

By Pepsi's Ghost Recon |

The fiery red color of the soil here, rich in minerals, and the emerald green Colorado River flowing through it together form a magnificent painting. Coupled with its own unparalleled shape, this place has become a gathering place for photography enthusiasts. There is a parking lot in front of Horseshoe Bend, and it takes about 30 minutes to reach the observation deck. However, the hiking trail is a bit hot, so be prepared for sun protection. When you see a large number of tourists gathered, you know you have arrived at the observation deck. Many people are standing on the edge of the cliff to take pictures, which scared my wife into a cold sweat. The scenery is pleasant, and we took a lot of photos. However, the tools in our hands are not very powerful. We don’t have a wide-angle lens. You really need a wide-angle lens to take pictures, otherwise the beautiful scenery you record will be much less fun.

By Jun Ye is very embarrassed |

The journey from Williams to Horseshoe Bay took nearly three hours, with few stops along the way. If we left at 8 AM, we'd arrive around 11 AM. There's a parking lot at Horseshoe Bay, so naturally, it was packed, so you had to be patient to find a spot. These days, Horseshoe Bay is increasingly popular, and it's no longer the tourist haunt it once was. It's hard to imagine why attractions like Horseshoe Bay don't charge admission. The day before, I specifically reminded everyone to change into old shoes, as both Horseshoe Bay and Antelope Canyon are sandy, and new shoes, especially suede ones, will definitely get ruined. From the parking lot to Horseshoe Bay, you have to climb a small hill on a sandy road, which takes about 20 minutes each way. The road was completely exposed to the sun, so without the umbrellas that Chinese women always wear, it was essential to bring plenty of water.

By Enjoy the mountains and rivers |

The emerald green of the bay is the Colorado River. The red soil and green river complement each other beautifully, making it a truly pleasing sight. Standing on a 300-meter-high cliff overlooking this 270-degree curved bay of clear water is breathtaking. It's a pity I didn't bring my wide-angle lens.

By Miss Sally |

In the morning, sunlight is partially blocked by the tall rock faces along the river, resulting in shadows in the image. The best time to photograph is between 10 AM and 2 PM, or at sunrise or sunset. It takes 15 minutes to get from the Horseshoe Bay parking lot to the scenic point. The path is sandy and requires waterproof clothing.

By The man chasing the wind |

It's a bit of a walk from the parking lot to Horseshoe Bay, about 15 minutes. You'll get there after climbing two slopes. From a distance, you can see everyone with their cameras, so be careful, everyone.

It was covered in fog. It would be more beautiful if there was no fog.

There is always a feeling that there is no end in sight, and there is no distraction in my mind.

By Lin Xiaoqiu |

Horseshoe Bend, reflected in the blue sky and white clouds, is spacious and beautiful. It is well worth a visit, the scenery is beautiful and spectacular, and it is a place where you can take great photos.

By Mannibaby |

It takes a long time to walk from the parking lot to this viewpoint. The road is uneven and covered with red fine sand. It is recommended not to wear light-colored shoes. My mother and I have lost our shoes! !

By Love blue |

It's absolutely stunning! It's quite a walk from the parking lot to the photo spot, so be prepared. You have to stand on the rocks, with your camera slightly outstretched. I'm afraid of heights, so my husband and son helped me take the photos, and my legs were so weak when I came down.

Please wear sneakers; don't wear sandals or high heels, as you won't be able to walk. Because it's hot and dry, please bring at least one bottle of water per person. Also, be sure to wear sunscreen!

By celery seedlings |

We arrived at Horseshoe Bay at around 10 am. The tour guide gave us about an hour of free time, which was obviously very tight. There was still a long way to go from the parking lot to the scenic spot, and it was a sandy road with ups and downs, which was quite difficult to walk on. In addition, the scorching sun and the high temperature seemed to be drying us out. What was even more tragic was that I forgot to bring the sun protection clothes and sunscreen that I usually carry with me. However, I would not regret it even if I got tanned to death because I could see the famous Horseshoe Bay.

After much difficulty, we finally arrived at Horseshoe Bend. It was not easy to take a 360-degree photo of this Horseshoe Bend. It required courage and guts. Because there were a lot of people there, I mustered up the courage to get as close as possible to take a panoramic photo, but in the end, this was all I could do.

By pp |

Noon is the best time to photograph Horseshoe Bend, but it's also the easiest time to feel dehydrated, so remember to bring plenty of drinking water. There's a clear sign in the Horseshoe Bend parking lot reminding everyone to bring one bottle of water per person, so don't ignore it. Also, please carry your trash with you and don't throw it in Horseshoe Bend. I saw a lot of plastic bottles and tissues thrown into the canyon, which was particularly noticeable... It's a short hike from the entrance to Horseshoe Bend, but it's a bit arduous because of the uphill climb. There are no staff there, so be sure to pay attention! Horseshoe Bend is incredibly beautiful, with a natural horseshoe shape that resembles an omega. You can go rafting down there, and the Colorado River here is much clearer. I tried to paint Horseshoe Bend as I saw it, but I'm completely out of ideas! I can only sit here and stare at the scenery, feeling so relaxed.

By John the Fatty |

Horseshoe Bay is a free tourist attraction. There is a large land parking lot when you arrive. After finding a place to park, you can see Horseshoe Bay after about a 10-minute walk.

By zeze |

This place was completely unknown to me, which shows how little I'd researched. I was pleasantly surprised when I arrived. Horseshoe Bend is not far from Antelope Canyon, but after parking, you have to climb up, which is incredibly tiring. There are no guardrails, so if you're afraid of heights, don't venture into dangerous areas; it's incredibly dangerous! When I went back in April this year, it was already fenced off, and the spot where I used to take photos was no longer accessible.

By Luffy |

We stopped by on our way to Antelope Canyon. This attraction is worth visiting once, and I didn't want to go a second time. The uphill section was so tiring... The sun was so scorching... The water in Horseshoe Bend is covered with moss, which makes it turquoise, but the moss fermented in the scorching sun, and the smell was so strong that the wind could carry it up...

By Tiffany |

There's a sign at the exit of the Horseshoe Bend parking lot warning of extreme heat. Everyone must bring at least one bottle of water. My friend thought the small hilltop was only five minutes away, so why bring water? But when we got there, we were stunned. There was a long, long desert trail. You can imagine how dehydrated you'd be in the scorching midday sun. The trail was flanked by small cacti.

After walking for about half an hour, we finally saw a panoramic view of Horseshoe Bend. Horseshoe Bend is a U-shaped section of the Colorado River, so named because of its horseshoe-like shape. There's no fence around the bend, and people are standing on the cliffs taking photos. In China, this would require high fences and clear warning signs.

By tin_tin |

You need to walk on a sandy road at Horseshoe Bay. It is very difficult to walk on because it is so soft that your shoes will get wet after a while.

Climbing all the way to the cliff of Horseshoe Bay, there are many Chinese people because it is a popular check-in spot. There are actually iron railings in the center, but not on the sides. I sat down and stretched my legs to take pictures.

By shortcut key |

It's a 20-minute drive and another 20-minute walk. In the summer heat, it's best to soak in the water, so be careful as there are no guardrails. The view at sunset is truly breathtaking. There's no entrance fee, and parking is free, so expect a long line. We arrived just as the sun was setting... but later, when the crowds had mostly left, we found it a great spot for taking silhouette photos! But be careful not to arrive too late, as there's a metal gate in the middle that seems to close at night. We recommend checking out Horseshoe Bend before sunset.

By Fruit peach |

If you don't visit Horseshoe Bend after visiting the Grand Canyon, you'll regret it forever. After leaving the Grand Canyon, we'll continue north for two hours to stay in the small town of Page (on the border of Arizona and Utah). The next day, we can visit two of the most famous attractions there: Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend.

The hike from the parking lot to Horseshoe Bend takes about 30 minutes. There's no shade along the way, and the only resting point is a small pavilion about two-thirds of the way up. Remember to bring plenty of water! Horseshoe Bend appears so tranquil, almost as if the Colorado River isn't flowing. The turquoise water, like silk, shimmers in the sunlight.

By zhuihaomfw |

Horseshoe Bend is actually a wild attraction with no official facilities, just a few signposts and a simple parking lot. Getting there requires a half-hour hike through scorching sand and gravel, up and downhill, under the scorching sun. Signs clearly warn of the importance of sun protection and plenty of water. Compared to the sheer size of Horseshoe Bend, people are incredibly small. Finally, we reached the bottom of the slope and stood on a large rock to gaze out. The rocks behind us were weathered, leaving traces of time. Reaching the cliff edge and catching a glimpse of Horseshoe Bend was thrilling. There are tons of photos of Horseshoe Bend online, and everyone knows what it looks like, but why is it still so popular? It's because seeing it in person is truly incredible: it's vastly larger, more spectacular, and more awe-inspiring than imagined. Much like the Grand Canyon, you can't experience the breathtaking depth until you see it. Unfortunately, my 16mm-equivalent lens paired with a cropped-frame camera (equivalent to a 24mm full-frame) doesn't allow me to capture the entire scene... If I capture the sky, I can't capture the entire river, and if I capture the river, I can't see the skyline. It's so awkward! I wish I could have a 16mm full-frame mirrorless camera to take in the world. A friendly reminder: since the "horseshoe" of Horseshoe Bend faces due east, the best viewing time is in the morning and early morning. Starting in the afternoon, the light gradually backs up. I went around 12:30 pm, and the sun was in the south, so the left cliff in the photo is completely in shadow.

By Humid, hot, sunny |

It was 4:30 PM when we arrived at Horseshoe Bay. Although it was still light, sunset was approaching. We parked in the Horseshoe Bay parking lot. It was unattended, but safe and had a relatively clean restroom. Next, we started walking on the desert road. The road was completely sandy, and a sudden gust of wind would leave us covered in dirt. After about half an hour, we arrived at Horseshoe Bay. The sun hadn't set when we first arrived, so the backlight was severe, making it impossible to take photos.

Finally, when the sun was about to set, the light was just right and I took a picture of Horseshoe Bend, which I personally like very much!

By Watercolor car and Melaleuca |

I only realized it when I went to Horseshoe Bay that the soles of my shoes had fallen off due to the heat.

The attraction is free, and there is a viewing point where a large number of people gather. It is very dangerous. If you jump and take pictures, you may lose your life.

There are no guardrails around Horseshoe Bend, so be careful! Looking down at the Colorado River, the green water doesn't look very spectacular, but once you reach the bottom of the canyon, you'll realize how amazing it is.

By @bingo@gg |

Horseshoe Bend, known as the "Great Bend of the Colorado River," is a Native American territorial site, similar to Antelope Canyon, and the two are very close. Driving from Antelope Canyon to Horseshoe Bend takes about 20 minutes. Park your car in the parking lot, then hike about a kilometer to reach it. Compared to other attractions, Horseshoe Bend is the farthest from the parking lot. Originally, Horseshoe Bend had no guardrails, but now, likely for safety reasons, a steel guardrail has been built directly opposite the U-shaped bend.

By Star |

Horseshoe Bend is just 1.2 kilometers from the parking lot, but the trek is incredibly difficult in the blazing summer sun. With temperatures over 40 degrees Celsius and the sun blazing overhead, climbing the soft, scorching red sand with one foot deep and one foot shallow feels like a loss of strength. All you can see are thorns, cacti, and endless Gobi desert. Water is essential; otherwise, the 2.4-kilometer round trip is enough to give you heatstroke.

When I was completely unprepared and on the verge of despair, a huge depression appeared in the ground in front of me as if by a miracle. At the bottom of the canyon, 300 meters vertically downward, the rushing Colorado River made a 270-degree turn, carving a horseshoe-shaped crack in the land. The blue-green river water and the reddish-brown rocks complemented each other, and the beauty was breathtaking.

The turquoise water, like silk, shimmers in the sunlight. There's no other scenery to frame the bay; not even trees or vegetation grows. Instead, the ochre-red sand and gravel complement the green water, creating a harmonious and harmonious harmony. It's said that an average of four people per year fall to their deaths from the cliffs in an attempt to capture panoramic photos of Horseshoe Bend. To prevent further tragedies, the local government has installed guardrails in the most dangerous areas. However, some people still venture to the unfenced cliff edge and perform dangerous poses for the camera, a sight that makes anyone watching cringe.

Besides Horseshoe Bend itself, the nearby reddish-brown sand dunes and rocks also caught our attention. Millions of years of wind and water erosion have shaped these bizarre patterns and shapes. Under the sunlight, they exude a mysterious aura, offering an unexpected surprise. Compared to those famous national parks, this free attraction is unassuming, and that's exactly what I love about it. Although the scenery before me is breathtaking, I can sit there quietly and fully experience the wonders of nature.

By Cassy |

The Colorado River in this bay is emerald green, and the contrast between the two colors is very striking. This bay is very large and deep, and it is very shocking to stand on the edge of the cliff and look down.

From the parking lot, you have to cross a large piece of red land to reach Horseshoe Bay.

By Linda Li Li |

Looking down from the hillside, there wasn't much to see besides some unnamed plants. Some people were already eager to take photos of the sunset, but even more were heading back over the hill toward what looked like a faint pit in the distance. As the crowd grew, I approached the edge of the pit and was suddenly surprised to discover it wasn't a pit at all, but a deep canyon, hundreds of meters deep, with a green river flowing gently within. The sun was setting, and I cautiously scrambled along the steep canyon walls, bending over and bending my legs, step by step, trying to find the perfect spot for sunset photography. After moving past a few rocks and looking down, I was stunned by the magnificent view before me. The winding river suddenly turned north at its near end, forming a magnificent landscape resembling a horseshoe with the rock formations at the other end of the canyon. Horseshoe Bend—a truly magnificent sight!

To avoid the crowds, we climbed the steep rock face to the highest point, which was also the most courageous part. In this scene, with the gentle breeze blowing, we felt one with nature and floated in the air.

By Emeline Zhou |

Although it only has one viewing point, the shocking degree of this point is hard to find another one in the world!!

By Paper cat towel |

Horseshoe Bend is located southwest of Page, about a 10-minute drive away. There's a dedicated parking lot at Horseshoe Bend, free of charge. After parking, walk along the path for about 10 minutes to reach the bay. If visiting in the summer, it's recommended to bring sunscreen and water, as the sun can get very hot without any shelter.

Although the size of Horseshoe Bend isn't immediately apparent from the picture, it's actually part of the Grand Canyon, with the Colorado River running through it. As part of the Grand Canyon, it's quite deep, reaching over 100 meters. The observation deck here, with the exception of a small section with guardrails in the center, is made up of pristine rock edges. Standing on the edge and looking down can be quite dizzying. Those with a fear of heights should be careful standing on the edge; you're sure to get weak legs and feel terrified. Horseshoe Bend is free to enter, and it's quite popular. Facing the west, you can time your visit to see the sunset. While smaller than the Grand Canyon, Horseshoe Bend is still over 100 meters deep, with vertical cliffs, making it quite a sight.

If you want to take photos, it is recommended to bring a wide-angle lens, with a 16mm focal length being the best. Ordinary cameras and mobile phones cannot capture the full picture.

There is a protruding rock in the middle of Horseshoe Bend. Many internet celebrities take photos here. You can stand or sit on this rock, it all depends on your courage.

On the way back to Page from Horseshoe Bay, you will pass by a supermarket and fast food area where you can get some supplies.

By Kimi is undeterred by wind and rain |

They say the view from Horseshoe Bay is different at different times of day, but the westward angle proves it's a great spot for sunset viewing. Sure enough, as dusk approached, the parking lot in front of Horseshoe Bay filled with people eager to catch a glimpse of the spectacular view. While the parking lot is run-down and free, the path isn't particularly good; it's all gravel. Furthermore, there's a 15-20 minute uphill climb from the parking lot to Horseshoe Bay, a steep climb that's sure to take you there. Once we reached the cliffs above Horseshoe Bay, we were filled with people...

By Hollow Brother |

It is the most famous free attraction near downtown Page. The turnoff from Highway 89 to the Horseshoe Bend parking lot is very inconspicuous, so those who drive should not miss it. The hike from the parking lot to the viewpoint is about 1 kilometer, of which the first half is uphill.

There are reminders when entering the scenic area. Be sure to pay attention to heatstroke prevention! Each person should bring at least one bottle of drinking water for hydration on the way, and then wear a sun hat and don't wear sandals.

Those holding umbrellas are all Chinese citizens. A major feature of free attractions is the large number of tour groups!

The uphill road accounts for one-third of the entire route. At the highest point, there is a pavilion where you can rest in the shade. The next two-thirds are a gentle downhill road towards the canyon bank.

Since the entire route is sandy and the floating sand is quite deep, it is recommended to wear high-top hiking shoes or wear shoe covers over your shoes.

The crowd is moving in a long line, and you won’t go wrong if you follow the main group.

The Colorado River turns 180 degrees here, forming a horseshoe-shaped bend, which looks like a perfect omega when viewed from the air.

The river is emerald green and calm, dotted with tourist boats. You admire the scenery from the boat, while those who admire the scenery admire you from the canyon...

People are so small, be sure to pay attention to safety when taking photos!

Of course, you can also sunbathe in Horseshoe Bay and become one with nature.

Horseshoe Bend is surrounded by weathered shale, which means that Horseshoe Bend itself is changing every day.

The crowds were thronging, and the return trip was two-thirds uphill, making it quite challenging to walk under the scorching midday sun. Remember to drink plenty of water!