The Glen Canyon National Recreational Area is truly immense. There are so many sites to see and so much history to learn, that some people have made it their lifetime goal and passion. Indeed, volumes have been written about the early explorers and ancient tribes who inhabited this vast corner of Utah and lived along the shores of what we call Lake Powell.
Did you know that one of the named Natural Wonders of the World can be visited in the Glen Canyon NRA? Rainbow Bridge, a naturally-carved arch of Navajo Sandstone, perfectly etched by the flow of water and by the winds of time, stands 290 feet tall and spans 275 feet. It is located on the eastern half of Lake Powell below Navajo Mountain on the Navajo Reservation.
There are basically two ways to get up close and personal with the Rainbow Bridge National Monument. You can take a guided boat trip from either the Lake Powell Resort (928 645-1070), or the Bullfrog Marina (435 684-3000), which is a great way to see much of this awesome lake and learn from experienced guides along the way.
The most active way to get to Rainbow Bridge, however, is to hike a 14-mile trail across the Navajo Reservation to this magnificent destination. This choice requires three things: a permit, a good leg stretch before hitting the trail, and a lot of water in the backpack anytime of the year. It is a fabulous walk that will enrich your spirit for adventure! To acquire a permit you need to write: Navajo Nation, PO Box 9000, Window Rock AZ 86515.
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