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Heed the call of Canyon Country with a Lake Powell stargazing adventure! From breathtaking views to thrilling activities, discover everything you need to know for an unforgettable trip to this aquatic & celestial wonderland!
Sandstone, Shores, and Stars
With almost no light pollution to cloud the view, a Lake Powell stargazing trip offers a magical nighttime spectacle. In this serene destination near Utah and Arizona, up to 15,000 stars and occasional meteor showers can twinkle above, providing a mesmerizing tableau for keen astrophotographers.
Of course, there’s much more to Lake Powell in the day. Boasting a shoreline that outstretches the entire west coast of the United States by nearly 2,000 miles, Lake Powell presents unlimited opportunities for adventure and exploration. This stunning landscape caters to adrenaline enthusiasts with a myriad of water activities such as boating, jet skiing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Once you step ashore, the adventure escalates. Intriguing rock formations that have doubled as the cinematic backdrop for many beloved films beckon hikers and cyclists.
In this guide, The Hot List has compiled valuable tips for all travelers of different mileages. We’ve also thrown in a list of sites that you definitely shouldn’t miss on your Lake Powell trip.
So, ready your itineraries; here’s everything you need to know about Utah’s Canyon Country!
Tips For Your Trip
Before anything else, we recommend checking out the National Park Service website for some expected fees. Securing a National Park Pass is also a cost-efficient option, especially if you’re planning to visit other national parks. Lake Powell, after all, is within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.
A good rule of thumb is: if anything can be booked, paid, or bought in advance, go ahead and do so.
BEST TIME TO VISIT LAKE POWELL
- The best time to visit Lake Powell is from May to August. During this time, the days are longer and the sunsets are more spectacular. It may be warmer during the day, but the cool summer nights offer great relief from the heat.
- July to mid-August is the best time in the year to go to Lake Powell for stargazing, as the summer months are when the Milky Way and the Galactic Core are most visible from the night sky.
- The ideal length of stay in Lake Powell is 3 days. This will allow you to explore the highlights of the area. Keep in mind that these 3 days should not include your travel time, so plan accordingly.
BEST WAY TO REACH LAKE POWELL
- The nearest major airport to Lake Powell is Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, which is approximately a 4.5-hour drive away.
- Other nearby airports include Flagstaff Pulliam Airport and Grand Canyon National Park Airport.
- You can also opt to drive to Lake Powell so you can pack ice chests, sleeping bags, food, and other equipment in your vehicle. However, be sure to check the directions beforehand.
- Before your visit to Lake Powell, it’s recommended to check the current launch ramp availability as it can change frequently.
BEST MODE OF TRANSPORTATION INSIDE LAKE POWELL
- Renting a houseboat is the best way to explore Lake Powell’s many attractions, including secluded coves, hidden beaches, and stunning red rock formations. Staying in a houseboat will also allow you to freely stargaze in Lake Powell, as opposed to the quite limited day boat tours.
- Kayaking, paddleboarding, and motorized watercraft rentals are also popular options, though they won’t get you as far as a houseboat.
- You also have the option to rent or bring your RV, campervan, or motorhome, which are much more convenient for families or groups. Camping grounds are available in the Wahweap, Bullfrog, and Halls Crossing areas.
WHERE TO STAY IN LAKE POWELL
- There are a variety of lodging options available in and around Lake Powell, including campgrounds, hotels, and resort rentals.
- If you plan to camp or stay in a houseboat, be sure to check and follow area regulations.
OTHER IMPORTANT TIPS FOR LAKE POWELL VISITORS
- You can drive and set up camp on some sandy shores, but the most popular spots are those nearest to the water. With their first-come, first-served basis policy, be sure to arrive there early to secure the best spots.
- Most shores are open for camping, but not all are easy to drive to or drive on. Sand and rock can make it easy for you to get stuck, so proceed with caution.
- Nothing tops swimming as a way to enjoy Lake Powell’s waters. However, Cliff jumping is ILLEGAL and dangerous. Best reserve the daredevil in you for other adventures.
- Drones are also NOT allowed in the area. So, please keep your camera in your hands or on a tripod, which is the most ideal anyway if you plan to go Lake Powell stargazing.
- As of 2022, the Dangling Rope area is closed for good.
- While the water level at Lake Powell may be low, boating is still possible as long as you proceed with caution. It’s recommended to stay between the red and green buoys in the main channel.
- The water at Lake Powell can also get pretty choppy, especially with other boats around. Be careful if you plan to operate your own boat or a rented one.
- Lastly, don’t forget to wear ample sunblock and bring lots of water to stay hydrated.
Areas & Activities In Lake Powell
A Lake Powell stargazing adventure is best complemented by other activities. After all, what’s better than resting under a canopy of stars after spending the whole day on your feet? With that said, here are the places to visit and things to do in the area:
1. WAHWEAP MARINA
Wahweap Marina is a bustling hub of activity for visitors to the lake. It is located on the southern shores of Lake Powell and provides a great view of surrounding red rock cliffs and canyons.
Boat and houseboat rentals, guided fishing trips, and kayak and paddleboard rentals are available in Wahweap Marina. Their other services include slips, buoys, repairs, fueling, and dry storage. If you’re staying in a houseboat, camping ground, or nearby resort rental, this is another prime spot for stargazing in Lake Powell.
From Wahweap Marina, you can also go on a scenic excursion through other areas of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area via boat tours and cruises.
2. GLEN CANYON DAM
The Glen Canyon Dam is located in the town of Page and is a marvel of modern engineering. In fact, its creation led to the formation of Lake Powell back in the 1960s. Guided tours are available here and will definitely delight the history buff in your group! Just keep in mind that these tours run from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. only, and each tour is limited to 20 people at a time.
3. ANTELOPE POINT MARINA
The Antelope Point Marina is the perfect starting point for a day of adventure on the water. Rent a boat and explore the many secluded coves and beaches, or rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the shoreline at your own pace.
The marina also offers guided tours of Antelope Canyon, one of the most iconic attractions in the area. After a day on the lake, head over to the marina’s restaurant for a delicious meal and stunning sunset views. As with Wahweap Marina, this is also a good spot to take in the beauty of Lake Powell at night.
4. HORSESHOE BEND
Located just a short drive from Lake Powell, Horseshoe Bend is a natural wonder that offers stunning views of the Colorado River as it curves around a towering sandstone cliff. The overlook provides a panoramic view of the surrounding area, including Lake Powell in the distance.
The trail to the overlook is approximately 1.5 miles round trip, and the hike can be steep in some areas, so make sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water.
5. RAINBOW BRIDGE NATIONAL MONUMENT
Rainbow Bridge was designated as an International Dark Sky Place back in 2018. Apart from its distance from light pollutants, its large, natural bridge formation provides the perfect frame or centerpiece for any astrophotography shot. Visitors who want to stargaze in Lake Powell can reach the monument by boat or by hiking the Rainbow Bridge Trail, which is approximately three miles round trip.
6. BULLFROG MARINA
Located on the northern shore of Lake Powell, Bullfrog Marina is a quieter, more secluded option for visitors. It also has the widest range of facilities in Lake Powell, such as a portable toilet dumping station, a free boat pump-out station, a launch ramp, a picnic area, and a fish cleaning station. They even have a landing strip for aircraft, if you decide to take an air tour.
Guided fishing trips are also offered here, as well as boat trips to Lake Powell’s secluded coves and beaches. You can opt to stay in hotels near Bullfrog Marina, or rent a houseboat to catch a view of Lake Powell at Night while on the waters.
7. ESCALANTE PETRIFIED FOREST STATE PARK
Approximately 90 minutes from Lake Powell is a fascinating destination. The Escalante Petrified Forest State Park features petrified wood from trees that lived over 130 million years ago, as well as stunning views of the surrounding red rock formations.
Visitors can take guided tours of the park or hike the Petrified Forest Trail, which winds through the park’s ancient forests and features interpretive signs that explain the area’s geology and history. The park also offers a variety of camping options, including yurts, tent and RV sites, and cabin rentals, making it the perfect place to appreciate Lake Powell evenings.
Experience the Best of Lake Powell with Hotala
With so many things to keep in mind before your Lake Powell stargazing getaway, we want to make things easier!
Hotala lists the best lodging options in and around Lake Powell. We have a selection of hotels, cabins, and vacation home rentals, so you can choose whatever suits your taste!
Even better, we’re bringing you the hottest deals from our network of providers, so you can get the most value for your money.
Plan, book, and travel worry-free to Lake Powell with Hotala.
TLDR
The Hot List’s guide outlines important tips for travelers planning to visit Lake Powell. The best time to visit Lake Powell is during the summer months, and it is recommended to go by car, campervan, or RV if you decide to stay in the area’s camping grounds.
For an amazing stargazing experience, The Hot List recommends renting a houseboat, or hiking to the Rainbow Bridge. Other top areas to explore are the Wahweap Marina, Antelope Point Marina, Horseshoe Bend, Glen Canyon Dam, Bullfrog Marina, and Escalante Petrified Forest State Park.
Visitors can also explore on land along the shorelines or by hiking or biking. On-water activities are widely available including boat tours, cruises, guided fishing, kayaking, jet skiing, and paddleboarding.
Feature Image Photo Credit: Emma Dau
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