Horseshoe Bend at sunset. The hairpin turn taken by the Colorado River in Arizona's Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is close to Lake Powell and Page.
As one of the many sights to see around the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Horseshoe Bend is located just a little ways from the town of Page, Arizona, and Lake Powell. Within 10 miles of Glen Canyon Dam, mile zero of the Grand Canyon, Horseshoe Bend is a sharp, curvy turn the Colorado River takes, forming a bend into a horseshoe shape, from which it takes its name.
There is a well-marked trail that leads to the overlook. However, the trail consists mostly of loose desert sand and it can be a very strenuous hike. So carry lots of water or other fluids.
As you walk down the trail, loose desert sand gives way to sandstone rocks that date back to the early Jurassic period. Over millions of years, wind and water have eroded these rocks to create absolutely weird, but awe-inspiring shapes and patterns.
Upon reaching the overlook, one is awed by the magnificence of the landscape that cannot be expressed in words or through a photograph. The overlook is at the top of a steep orange colored cliff several hundreds of feet high. Down below, an emerald green Colorado River makes a horseshoe-shaped bend before rushing towards the Grand Canyon.