Horseshoe Bend

Just outside Page, the Colorado River makes a spectacular horseshoe curve, sweeping a full loop around a tower of red rock nearly three hundred metres below a sheer clifftop. Reached by a short walk from the road, the overlook has become one of the most photographed viewpoints in the American Southwest.

What you'll find

• The overlook - the clifftop view straight down onto the river's horseshoe curve.
• The green river - the Colorado sweeping around the red rock far below.
• Sunset light - the low sun warming the red walls of the bend.
• The short trail - the walk from the car park to the rim.

When to go

Spring to autumn for mild weather; the overlook faces west, so late afternoon and sunset light it best, though that is also busiest. Summer midday is very hot on the exposed trail.

Before you go

It is a single viewpoint reached by a short but hot, exposed walk, so it is a quick stop rather than a long visit. It has become extremely popular, so the rim can be crowded, especially at sunset. The clifftop has sheer, unfenced drops, so keep well back.

Nearby

Antelope Canyon and Lake Powell are at Page; the Grand Canyon is within a couple of hours.