7 Reasons Why You Need To Visit Horseshoe Bend
Horseshoe Bend is quickly becoming one of the most iconic destinations in Arizona and the entire Southwest. Wondering if you should be one of the millions every year that gets to see this famous turn in the Colorado River? Here are 7 reason why you need to:
1. It is literally breathtaking
The full scale and height of Horseshoe Bend cannot be fully appreciated until the last moment when you look over the edge for the first time and you uncontrollably let out a “whooaa!” from somewhere deep in your stomach. It is hard not to audibly gasp as you take in the view for the first time. These are the feelings and experiences that we travel for, making a trip to Horseshoe Bend a must stop for any traveler to Northern Arizona.
2. Your Photos Will Pop
The reason you know about Horseshoe Bend is most likely because you saw a photo first! Photos come out great there, and it is pretty easy for even the most amateur photographers to get great photos. To get the ultimate social media post though, you will have to summon some courage to inch towards the edge….
3. Get the Edge Shot (Safely)
We don’t think it is the best idea to sit on the edge at Horseshoe Bend, but we know many people will do it anyway. Knowing that, we are here to tell you how to do it safely.
This is the method we recommend to all of our guests when visiting both the Grand Canyon and Horseshoe Bend so that they can get that iconic photo on the edge, we call it the “sit-and-scoot” method.
Sit down a good 5 feet or so away from the edge and slowly scoot up to the edge until your legs are precariously dangling 1000 feet above the river below. When your photoshoot is done, scoot back to your original spot and stand up.
I like to tell my guests on our Grand Canyon Tours, “You will not fall while sitting down.” By not standing and walking near the edge, you are not giving yourself the chance to trip and fall at what would be the absolute wrong time. Want to get a photo on the edge? Try to sit and scoot.
Related Reading: Is Horseshoe Bend Part of the Grand Canyon? (It’s Complicated)
4. See it from above, way above, or below
There are many ways to explore Horseshoe Bend. Most people will take the short hike out to the overlook, this is a must see. The more adventurous among us may also choose a river rafting tour to experience the bend from the bottom, or a helicopter tour to get a bird's-eye view. Each method has its own unique view, and all travelers to the Bend should consider seeing more than one!
5. It’s the number one attraction in the Page area
There is plenty to do in the region of Page, AZ, but Horseshoe Bend is the number one most popular sight in the region. Why? The fantastic scenery, not needing to purchase tickets in advance, and the ability to explore around the bend to get away from the crowds all make it an absolute must-stop on any trip to Page.
6. Visit Antelope Canyon too
Batman and Robin, Chicken and Waffles….Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon? Yep, that’s right, these two southwest gems are located 10 minutes apart and are often combined on the same tour or the same trip. Antelope Canyon tours are our number recommendation for any visitor to the southwest. If you are planning to visit Horseshoe Bend, make sure you book tickets in advance for Antelope Canyon, it will blow your mind.
Related Reading: Lower vs. Upper Antelope Canyon
7. Sunrise/Sunset
Sunrise and Sunsets in the desert are special. Add in the beauty of Horseshoe Bend, and you have all the makings of a memorable desert experience. Sunrise is better for photos, the sun will be at your back.
Sunsets are better for viewing, the sun will set over the bend if you position yourself correctly. Either way, you are bound to have a sensational experience.
