Glen Canyon area activities, via boat, trail or tour
The undammed Glen Canyon was beloved by river rafters who floated down its calm waters and explored intriguing side canyons.
Glen Canyon Dam has changed the nature of the Colorado River above and below the massive structure and has created numerous recreational opportunities.
Today, many visitors float the river on motorized rafts, anglers cast for trout in the cold water below the dam, hikers explore the backcountry and houseboaters navigate Lake Powell in style.
Here are things to do at Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.
Lees Ferry: Go here for trout fishing, hiking, a boat launch, a campground and to tour Lonely Dell Ranch, built by the original ferry operator, Mormon pioneer John D. Lee.
Colorado River Discovery: This company will take you into 2-mile-long tunnels built to facilitate construction of Glen Canyon Dam. Next, you’ll hop on a raft for a scenic ride down the Colorado River. 928-6459175, raftthecanyon.com.
Glen Canyon Dam: The dam is open for tours. Walk-up admission is first-come, firstserved; reservations can be made at the Carl Hayden Visitor Center. 928-608-6072, glen canyonnha.org.
Take a hike: Glen Canyon National Recreation Area encompasses 1.25 million acres. Many of them are remote, rugged and miles from any water source or other services. Summer temperatures may exceed 100 degrees. Winter weather can be cold and wet. Sound fun? Make sure you arrive well sup- plied with water, food, gas and maps. Easy-access hikes at Lees Ferry include Paria Canyon, which requires a permit for overnight camping; the Spencer Trail; and the River Trail. nps.gov/glca/planyourvisit /hiking.htm.
Kayaking: Kayak Lake Powell, run by the husband-and-wife team of Jim Bultman and Katalina Jimenez, can outfit you to get on the water for a day or a week. Guided trips of up to 14 days are offered as well. 928660-0778, kayakpowell.com.
Antelope Canyon Tours: This Navajo-owned outfitter will guide you through one of the region’s most iconic places. 928-645-9102, antelopecanyon .com.
Boat rentals: Lake Powell is famous as a houseboating destination. Rent one at Lake Powell Marina or Antelope Point. Both marinas also rent power boats and Jet Skis and offer tours of the lake and Rainbow Bridge. lakepowell.com, antelopepoint lakepowell.com.