Rainbow Bridge National Monument

Things To Do Near Rainbow Bridge National Monument

The Rainbow Bridge National Monument is accessible via two amazing trails. Each trail has its own unique features, and both allow you to enjoy the journey there at your leisure. All-day, guided boat tours are also available and include a required one-mile hike to get to the Rainbow Bridge. 

Hiking Trails

• Rainbow Bridge North Trail

  The Rainbow Bridge North Trail is a lengthy, out-and-back hike that is excellent for backpacking adventures. This trail starts on the Utah side of the Lake Powell area and ends at the Rainbow Bridge. On your trek, expect to see plenty of diverse scenery and streams for water fill-ups. Flash flooding should be kept in mind when choosing your campsites. 

  Location

  Tonalea, UT 86044

  Length

  31.3 miles

  Intensity

  Moderate 

• Rainbow Bridge South Trail 

  The Rainbow Bridge South Trail is a slightly shorter hike that approaches the national monument from Arizona. This out-and-back trail features rugged scenery and fantastic views of Navajo Mountain and the surrounding canyons. Watering holes are abundant along the trail. Be sure to bring a filter if you plan to rely on natural sources of water. 

  Location

  Tonalea, AZ 86044

  Length

  24.5 miles

  Intensity

  Moderate 

Sightseeing

• Horseshoe Bend

  While you are in the area, a visit to Horseshoe Bend is a must. Breathtaking views of this famous rock formation can be seen on thrilling helicopter or plane tours or via on-foot exploration. From the Horseshoe Bend Overlook, you'll have a fantastic vantage point that is perfect for snapping a few memorable photos of the bending Colorado River from 4,200 feet above. You can also experience Horseshoe Bend on an exciting rafting tour or floating day trip. 

  Location

  Page, Arizona 86040

• The Chains

  The Chains is a popular day-use area with slickrock sand formations and excellent spots for fishing that is located close to the Glen Canyon Dam. To reach The Chains, you will enjoy a one-mile hike starting at the Hanging Garden trailhead. From here, there are several routes to choose from that will take you to the lake below the dam where you can wet a hook or take a refreshing dip. Be prepared for deep water and steep, rocky banks. 

  Location

  Page, AZ 86040

Museums

• John Wesley Powell Museum

  The John Wesley Powell Museum pays homage to the diverse history of the area with exhibitions that feature the exploration of the Colorado River, Native American artifacts, and the construction of the Glen Canyon Dam. One of the most popular displays includes dinosaur findings excavated at the Grand Staircase located in the Escalante National Monument, a 90-million-year-old discovery. You will also learn about Major Powell's expeditions and military service in the Civil War in addition to the history of the city of Page. 

  Location

  6 N Lake Powell Blvd, Page, AZ 86040

• Navajo Shadehouse Museum

  The Navajo Shadehouse Museum is a must-visit site located at the Navajo Cultural Center in Kayenta. Self-guided tours of the authentic shadehouse invite you to explore a large collection of artwork and intriguing Navajo Code Talkers memorabilia. You will also find exhibits that focus on the traditions and beliefs of the Navajo tribe, which is the largest in North America. Outside, you can continue your cultural journey as you walk the grounds, stopping to examine various types of hogans and sweat lodges within the two-acre park. 

  Location

  US-160, Kayenta, AZ 86033

Nearby Shops and Restaurants

• Kelly's Candy Shop

  At Kelly's Candy Shop, visitors can enjoy the store's nostalgic décor while picking out old-time candy treats such as jumbo jawbreakers, Pop Rocks, Razzles, and Bubble Tape. Kelly's classic menu also features hot dogs, chili dogs, chips, Italian sodas, and floats, which are available to order inside or at the walk-up window. 

  Location

  626 N Navajo Dr, Unit B, Page, AZ 86040

• Shirts & Shades

  Shirts & Shades offers shoppers a cool selection of surfing and hiking gear with some of the best brands in clothing and sunglasses as well as tote bags and a wide variety of souvenirs. 

  Location

  644 N Navajo Dr, Page, AZ 86040

• BirdHouse

  BirdHouse features great views of the Lake Powell area and delicious chicken box combos that come in original, very spicy, or honey butter flavors. Savory sides of seasoned fries, mac and cheese, and broccoli salad with bacon are also available, in addition to a variety of cold beers and milk-glazed donut holes with three types of dipping sauce. 

  Location

  707 N Navajo Dr, Page, AZ 86040

• State 48 Tavern

  State 48 Tavern is a great place to grab some juicy steaks and beers or a fresh strawberry and basil salad and lemonade as you enjoy the festive atmosphere. Menu items include everything from beer-battered avocados to cowboy burgers and Cubano sandwiches. Pasta and seafood dishes are also offered. 

  Location

  614 N Navajo Dr, Page, AZ 86040

How To Get To Rainbow Bridge National Monument

From St. George, get onto I-15 N, and then take exit 16 to UT-9 E. Follow UT-9 E to UT-59 S. Keep going south on UT-59 S to AZ-389 E to Kanab. Go right to get on US-89 E to Page, AZ. You will cross over Lake Powell on your way into Page. 

The Rainbow Bridge National Monument can only be accessed by boat or hike. Tour boats and private or rental boats can access the area from Wahweap, Dangling Rope, and Antelope Point for travel north to the monument or from Halls Crossing and Bullfrog for southbound travel. From the courtesy dock, expect to walk at least a mile to reach the site. 

If you plan to hike to the Rainbow Bridge, be sure to obtain a permit from the Navajo Nation before heading to the monument. 

Address

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, 691 Scenic View Dr, Page, AZ 86040

Fee: Entry fee $0

At the Rainbow Bridge National Monument, you will experience the beauty and mystery of the sacred area as you hike through a gorgeous red rock canyon on your way to the site. Its remote location allows you to choose several different ways to access and explore the Rainbow Bridge. For a time that is filled with adventure and relaxation, an RV is a fantastic way to travel to and from your destination in comfort.