Glen Canyon

Thinking about this year's summer vacation or just planning a nice, long weekend getaway? Glen Canyon National recreation Area may be the perfect choice. Perfect, that is, if you enjoy unlimited water sports, boating, fishing, camping, hiking, and sightseeing amid a spectacular backdrop of sandstone canyons and sky blue waters.

This recreational playground came about from the construction of glen Canyon Dam, which was completed in 1966. At 1,500 feet long and 710 feet above bedrock, the dam holds back water from the Colorado River to form Lake Powell. When full, Lake Powell measures 560 feet deep at the dam's base. Free tours of the dam are available through the Carl Hayden Visitor Center, near the town of Page, Arizona.

The lake and surrounding desert/canyon country abound with recreational opportunities. The water temperature of Lake Powell is relatively warm from June through September, making swimming, tubing, and water skiing very enjoyable. Take a relaxing boat tour or rent your own—from ski boats to houseboats. Canoes and kayaks give better access to secluded areas in small canyons. If you're into fishing, then cast a line for largemouth and striped bass, black crappie, catfish, bluegill, trout, and walleye. There is excellent camping right on the lakeshore; and, if you prefer land adventures to water fun, hike narrow side canyons or mountain bike the par's primitive roads. Land tours are available, or you can take your own four-wheel-drive vehicle out for a spin.

While you're enjoying glen Canyon, visit the world's largest natural bridge. From its base to the top of the arch, Rainbow Bridge is 290 feet—nearly the height of the Statue of Liberty. It spans 275 feet across. The arch itself is 42 feet thick and 33 feet wide. The same forces of nature that carved the sandstone arches and alcoves, seen throughout the Colorado Plateau, shaped this incredible natural bridge. Visitors can reach Rainbow Bridge from Lake Powell by private, rental, or tour boat. This stone wonder is about 50 miles by lake from Wahweap Marina, Halls Crossing, or Bullfrog (4 hours round trip).

Other cool places to visit on the Colorado River include Lees Ferry, the scenic region around Hite, and the wilderness canyons of the Escalante River. For more information, call 928-608-6200 or visit www.nps.gov/gica.