St. George to Lake Powell / Page
Nearly 2,000 miles of shoreline, deep red canyons, and crystal-clear water make Lake Powell one of the most stunning reservoirs in the world. The nearby town of Page offers Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon.
I-15 North → UT-20 → US-89 South
275 miles
Distance
4 hr
Drive Time
east
Direction
April-October
Best Time
Driving from St. George to Lake Powell / Page
Route: I-15 North → UT-20 → US-89 South
Head north on I-15 to Cedar City, take UT-20 East to US-89 South, then follow US-89 through the stunning Vermilion Cliffs area and Navajo Nation to Page, Arizona. Alternatively, take US-89 through Kanab for a slightly shorter but equally scenic route.
About Lake Powell / Page
Lake Powell is a water wonderland carved through some of the most dramatic red rock canyon country on Earth. Created by Glen Canyon Dam on the Colorado River, the reservoir stretches 186 miles with nearly 2,000 miles of shoreline — more than the entire Pacific coast of the United States. Towering sandstone walls in shades of orange, red, and cream rise hundreds of feet above the water, creating a landscape that feels prehistoric.
The town of Page, Arizona sits on the edge of the lake and serves as the gateway to two of the most photographed natural features in the American Southwest — Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon. Horseshoe Bend, where the Colorado River makes a dramatic 270-degree turn 1,000 feet below a cliff edge, is free to visit and one of the most Instagrammed natural features in America. Antelope Canyon is a narrow slot canyon where beams of sunlight create otherworldly light shows on the curved sandstone walls.
On the lake itself, houseboating is the premier experience. Multi-day houseboat rentals let you explore hidden canyons, pristine beaches, and swimming holes accessible only by water. For day visitors, boat tours of Rainbow Bridge National Monument — one of the world's largest natural bridges — and guided kayak trips into narrow side canyons are unforgettable. The water is warm enough for swimming from May through October.
Gas Stops Along the Way
- Cedar City — 52 miles / 55 min (full services)
- Panguitch — 95 miles / 1 hr 30 min (gas and restaurants)
- Kanab (alternate route) — 80 miles / 1 hr 20 min (full services)
- Page, AZ — 275 miles / 4 hr (full services at destination)
Weather & Climate
Page and Lake Powell have a hot desert climate. Summer highs reach 100-110°F with warm lake water (75-80°F). Spring and fall are pleasant at 65-85°F. Winter is cool (35-55°F) with cold lake water. Monsoon thunderstorms bring flash flood risk July-September.
Best Time to Visit
April-October
April through June offers warm weather without extreme heat, plus the best light beams in Antelope Canyon. July-August are hottest (100°F+) but the water is warmest for swimming. September-October bring cooler air, warm water, and beautiful light. Winter is cold and many water activities are limited.
Things to Do in Lake Powell / Page
From outdoor adventures to dining, here is everything worth experiencing when you visit Lake Powell & Page, Arizona.
Must-See Attractions in Page
Horseshoe Bend
$10 parkingThe Colorado River's iconic 270-degree horseshoe meander viewed from 1,000 feet above. A 1.5-mile round-trip walk from the parking lot leads to a jaw-dropping cliff-edge viewpoint.
Visit at sunrise or sunset for the best lighting — midday creates harsh shadows in the canyon
Upper Antelope Canyon
$60-$100 per personThe famous slot canyon where light beams pierce through narrow openings and illuminate curved sandstone walls. Tours are the only way to visit and must be booked in advance through authorized Navajo guides.
Book the 11:30 AM tour for the best light beam photos (March-October)
Lower Antelope Canyon
$40-$65 per personNarrower and deeper than Upper Antelope, accessed by metal stairways. Equally beautiful with fewer crowds and lower prices. The ladders add an adventure element.
Glen Canyon Dam
Free (overlook), $5 (tour)The 710-foot concrete dam that created Lake Powell. Free overlook viewpoints and guided dam tours available through the Carl Hayden Visitor Center.
Wahweap Overlook
FreePanoramic views of Lake Powell, Wahweap Bay, and the surrounding desert from a cliff-top viewpoint. Free access and a great photo spot, especially at sunset.
Water Activities on Lake Powell
Houseboating
$1,500-$5,000+ per tripThe ultimate Lake Powell experience. Multi-day houseboat rentals from Wahweap Marina let you explore hidden canyons, camp on beaches, and swim in turquoise water surrounded by red rock walls.
Kayaking & Paddleboarding
$60-$150/day rentalRent kayaks or SUPs at Wahweap Marina and explore the shoreline, hidden coves, and narrow side canyons. Guided kayak tours available for those wanting expert navigation.
Rainbow Bridge Boat Tour
$125-$200 per personFull-day boat tour from Wahweap Marina to Rainbow Bridge National Monument — one of the largest natural bridges in the world at 290 feet high and 275 feet across. Sacred to the Navajo people.
Swimming & Beaches
Free (Lone Rock Beach)Lake Powell has countless sandy beaches accessible by boat. The water reaches 75-80°F in summer. Lone Rock Beach (free) near Wahweap is the most accessible beach by car.
Jet Ski & Powerboat Rentals
$300-$600/dayWahweap Marina rents jet skis, powerboats, and ski boats for exploring the lake's 96 major side canyons. Full-day and half-day rentals available.
Dining in Page
Big John's Texas BBQ
$$Popular BBQ joint with excellent brisket, ribs, and pulled pork. Generous portions at fair prices. The local favorite for dinner.
Blue Buddha Sushi Lounge
$$$Surprisingly excellent sushi in the middle of the desert. Fresh rolls, creative cocktails, and a cool atmosphere. Reservation recommended.
Slackers
$$Casual burger and sandwich spot popular with outdoor enthusiasts. Great craft beer selection and a laid-back vibe.
El Tapatio
$Authentic Mexican restaurant with generous portions and fresh ingredients. The green chile enchiladas are outstanding.
Travel Tips for the St. George to Lake Powell / Page Drive
Horseshoe Bend is free to visit — arrive at sunrise for the best photos with fewest crowds
Book Antelope Canyon tours well in advance, especially the 11:30 AM Upper Canyon tour for light beams
Lake water levels fluctuate — check current conditions at lakepowell.water-data.com before planning boating activities
The route through Kanab offers beautiful red rock scenery and a chance to stop at Kanab Creek Bakery
Page has limited hotel options — book early for peak summer season
Bring plenty of water — the desert heat is intense and dehydration is a real risk
The Navajo Nation observes Daylight Saving Time (Arizona does not) — double-check times for tours
Lone Rock Beach allows free camping right on the lake — bring your own shade, water, and supplies
Frequently Asked Questions: St. George to Lake Powell / Page
How far is St. George from Lake Powell?
Lake Powell and the town of Page, Arizona are approximately 275 miles (4 hours) from St. George via I-15 North and US-89 South.
Is Horseshoe Bend free to visit?
The viewpoint is free but there is a $10 parking fee. The walk from the parking lot to the viewpoint is 1.5 miles round trip on a paved trail. No reservations needed.
Do I need a reservation for Antelope Canyon?
Yes, you must book a guided tour through an authorized Navajo tour operator. Tours frequently sell out, especially for the popular 11:30 AM Upper Canyon slot. Book weeks or months in advance during peak season.
Can I swim in Lake Powell?
Yes! Lake Powell is excellent for swimming from May through October when water temperatures reach 70-80°F. Lone Rock Beach near Wahweap is the easiest free-access swimming beach by car.
How much does a Lake Powell houseboat cost?
Houseboat rentals range from $1,500-$5,000+ depending on size, season, and duration. Peak summer weekends are most expensive. Smaller boats sleeping 6-8 people are the most affordable option.
Nearby Destinations from Lake Powell / Page
Grand Canyon (South Rim)
The world's most famous canyon view. The South Rim is open year-round with the most visitor services, iconic lodges, and legendary trails. A longer drive from St. George but worth every mile.
Kanab
Known as "Little Hollywood" for its Western film history, Kanab is a charming gateway town to The Wave, Coral Pink Sand Dunes, Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.
Bryce Canyon National Park
A wonderland of orange, red, and white hoodoo rock spires unlike anything else on Earth. Bryce Canyon sits at 8,000+ feet, offering cooler temperatures and some of the darkest night skies in the world.
Complete Guide: Driving from St. George to Lake Powell / Page
St. George to Lake Powell / Page — 275 miles, 4 hr Drive
Lake Powell is a water wonderland carved through some of the most dramatic red rock canyon country on Earth. Created by Glen Canyon Dam on the Colorado River, the reservoir stretches 186 miles with nearly 2,000 miles of shoreline — more than the entire Pacific coast of the United States. Towering sandstone walls in shades of orange, red, and cream rise hundreds of feet above the water, creating a landscape that feels prehistoric.
The route from St. George, Utah to Lake Powell & Page, Arizona covers 275 miles and takes approximately 4 hr via I-15 North → UT-20 → US-89 South. Head north on I-15 to Cedar City, take UT-20 East to US-89 South, then follow US-89 through the stunning Vermilion Cliffs area and Navajo Nation to Page, Arizona. Alternatively, take US-89 through Kanab for a slightly shorter but equally scenic route.
Things to Do in Lake Powell / Page
Must-See Attractions in Page: Horseshoe Bend, Upper Antelope Canyon, Lower Antelope Canyon. Water Activities on Lake Powell: Houseboating, Kayaking & Paddleboarding, Rainbow Bridge Boat Tour. Dining in Page: Big John's Texas BBQ, Blue Buddha Sushi Lounge, Slackers.
Best Time to Visit Lake Powell / Page
April through June offers warm weather without extreme heat, plus the best light beams in Antelope Canyon. July-August are hottest (100°F+) but the water is warmest for swimming. September-October bring cooler air, warm water, and beautiful light. Winter is cold and many water activities are limited.
Travel Tips
Horseshoe Bend is free to visit — arrive at sunrise for the best photos with fewest crowds. Book Antelope Canyon tours well in advance, especially the 11:30 AM Upper Canyon tour for light beams. Lake water levels fluctuate — check current conditions at lakepowell.water-data.com before planning boating activities. The route through Kanab offers beautiful red rock scenery and a chance to stop at Kanab Creek Bakery.
For more things to do near St. George, explore our Things to Do guide, browse the Events Calendar, or discover local businesses in the St. George Business Directory. Check out all road trip destinations from St. George including Grand Canyon (South Rim), Kanab, Bryce Canyon National Park.