Lake Powell, a sprawling aquatic marvel straddling the Utah-Arizona border, is a paradise for adventure seekers, wellness enthusiasts, and families alike. With its vast expanse of placid blue water and sandy beaches, this lake offers a unique blend of desert landscapes and water-based activities. The lake’s 1900 miles of shoreline are punctuated by breathtaking red rock canyons and natural arches, including the iconic Rainbow Bridge National Monument, one of the seven natural wonders of the world. This monumental sandstone bridge, standing 290 feet high, is steeped in spiritual significance and offers a profound experience for visitors.
Nearby, Padre Bay, the largest bay on Lake Powell, invites powerboating, waterskiing, and wakeboarding, while its wind-sheltered areas provide perfect spots for houseboating. For the more adventurous, kayaking through backshoots like Kane Wash Canyon or exploring the ancient Anasazi ruins and petroglyphs in the Escalante River Arm are must-do activities. Hikers can embark on the scenic 28-mile Rainbow Bridge Trail, while history buffs can visit the Glen Canyon Dam and its visitor center. Whether you seek thrilling water sports, serene wellness retreats, or family-friendly explorations, Lake Powell is an unparalleled destination.
- Surface area (mi)
- 428.12
- Max depth (ft)
- 583.99
- Elevation (ft)
- 3733.6
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 1900.15
Ideal for
- Family friendly:
- Pet friendly:
- Romantic getaways:
Popular activities
- Swimming
- Fishing
- Freshwater Fishing
- Hiking
Islands
Drifting across the rugged expanses of Utah, visitors encounter a stunning array of islands scattered throughout these shimmering waters. Among them, Antelope Island stands out, a historical jewel rich in Native American lore and early settler tales. The remnants of the old ranch structures, coupled with scenic vistas, invite exploration and serve as a backdrop for both adventure and serenity. Hiking trails meander through sun-soaked chaparral, leading to breathtaking lookouts that offer panoramic views perfect for photography enthusiasts. Elsewhere, Rainbow Bridge, one of the world’s largest natural bridges, beckons with its grandeur, steeped in ancient myths and accessible via boat travel from the islands. These islands serve not only as havens for recreation—ideal for kayaking, fishing, and hiking—but also as portals into the rich tapestry of history that defines the region. Each island is a chapter waiting to be explored, ensuring unforgettable encounters with nature and heritage.
Nearby amenities
Visitors to this stunning destination will find a wealth of amenities to enhance their experience. For those looking to get out on the water, Antelope Point Marina offers boat rentals, jet ski rentals, and a public boat ramp, making it easy to access the lake. A fuel dock is available, along with mooring buoys for convenience. If you’re aiming to enjoy some leisure time, several dining options like the Lakeview Restaurant provide scenic views as you savor your meal. For supplies, look to the nearby Tackle Shop for all your fishing needs or grab necessities at the general store located at the marina. If you’re planning an overnight stay, various options exist from campgrounds with tent sites to luxurious vacation rentals at Lake Powell Resort. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the extensive hiking trails and opportunities for wildlife viewing. Additionally, restrooms, showers, and a visitor information center ensure a comfortable visit, making it easy to enjoy everything the area has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Lake Powell has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Yes, there are safety concerns when swimming in Lake Powell. Be aware of changing water quality due to high visitor use, storms, and potential harmful algal blooms. Additionally, swimming is prohibited in marinas and launch areas due to risks from boat traffic and electrical faults.
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Lake Powell is a popular destination because of its unique red-rock canyon walls and clear blue water. It offers over 1.2 million acres of space for activities like boating, fishing, hiking, and camping, along with spectacular sightseeing spots such as Rainbow Bridge and Padre Bay.
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In Lake Powell, Utah, the daily catch limits vary by species. For rainbow trout, the limit is 2 per day. There is no limit for other sport fish like bass, striped bass, and white bass. For example, you can catch as many largemouth and smallmouth bass as you want, but other species like channel catfish are limited to 8 per day.
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Lone Rock is a good beach for families because it can be accessed by car or boat and is very popular for camping. It has a large, lone rock in the water that kids might find interesting, but be aware it can get very crowded on holiday weekends.
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Towns near Lake Powell that offer amenities for visitors include Page, Arizona; Cedar City, Utah; and Saint George, Utah. Page is close to Wahweap Marina and popular landmarks like Antelope Canyon. Cedar City and Saint George provide access to various services and are relatively close to the lake’s Utah side.