Find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about Lake Powell Recreation Area.
Q:Where is Lake Powell located?
A:Lake Powell is located in Southwest Utah, on the edge of the Colorado Plateau.
Q:What is the weather like at Lake Powell?
A:The average temp at Lake Powell is 65 degrees Fahrenheit ranging from 43 degrees in January to 98 degrees in July. Lake Powell is located in an arid climate and rainfall is generally light (less than 6 inches annually) though heavy rains and flash flooding can occur in spring and summer. You should bring clothing to layer – such as a light rain jacket and perhaps a sweater in case the temperatures drop.
Q:When is the best time to visit Lake Powell?
A:Visitation is highest in the summer months and lowest in the winter; if you enjoy a more quiet vacation you might plan on coming to visit Lake Powell in the off season, when rates may be lower and the pace a little slower. Because the weather here is temperate more of the year you can enjoy Lake Powell any time.
Q:What is there to do at Lake Powell?
A:There are many activities to enjoy at Lake Powell. Even if you are not a dessert lizard you will find that the history and geology of the area mesmerizing to be a part of. Some of the most popular Lake Powell activities include:
Archeological Sites - Scattered across the mesas and canyon country of the Southwest are remnants of the once-thriving Ancestral Puebloan culture (called "Anasazi" by the Navajo): dwellings and storage rooms, pictographs and petroglyphs, potsherds, corn cobs, and baskets.
Fishing - Lake Powell has created a new realm for fishermen. Before Glen Canyon Dam was built, the Colorado River was so full of silt that only carp, catfish, suckers, and the Colorado River squawfish could survive in its murky waters. Now, abundant game fish thrive in the clear waters of Lake Powell. Introduced species such as bass and crappie as well as walleye, bluegill, and catfish challenge the avid fisherman.
Hike the Orange Cliffs - The Orange Cliffs portion of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, bordered by Canyonlands National Park, is one of the most scenic areas of the Colorado Plateau region.
Hike in Escalante - The Escalante Canyons include some of the most remote, wild and beautiful countries in the Southwest.
Mountain Biking - The backcountry and primitive roads of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area are a great way to enjoy the scenery of the Colorado Plateau.
Visit Lee's Ferry - A natural corridor between Utah and Arizona, Lees Ferry figured prominently in the exploration and settlement of the surrounding canyon country. The Lees Ferry and Lonely Dell Ranch Historic Districts offer a glimpse into western pioneer life of the late 1800s.
Of course, what better way to explore and experience these attractions than from a houseboat. Houseboat rentals are a popular way to enjoy your Lake Powell vacation because of their convenience and relaxation.
Q:What is the recommended stay duration at Lake Powell?
A:Minimalist (4 Days)
Driving/Sightseeing: ½ Day
Hiking/Exploring/Houseboating: 3 Days
Activities/Tours/Special Programs: ½ Day
Adventurist (8 Days)
Driving/Sightseeing: 2 Day
Hiking/Exploring/Houseboating: 4 Days
Activities/Tours/Special Programs: 2 Day
Notes: Lake Powell is the second largest man-made lake in the U.S. Powell is on the Colorado River situated between Utah and Arizona. With most of it being in Utah. Around 2 million people visit Lake Powell yearly. Visit the famous Rainbow Bridge National Monument in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. This Recreation area borders Capitol Reef National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, Grand Canyon National Park, and the Navajo Indian Reservation. Lake Powell has many water activities to enjoy such as house boating, personal watercraft, swimming, kayaking, fishing, boating, skiing, scuba diving, and fishing. Take a scenic drive across Hite Crossing Bridge along Utah State Route 95. This bridge spans across the Colorado River northwest of Blanding, Utah. Route 95 is a breathtaking drive with many stops along the way.
Q:What are the entrance fees for Glen Canyon Recreation Area?
A:
Vehicle: $30.00 for 7 Days
Motorcycles: $25.00 for 7 Days
Individuals: $15.00 for 7 Days
1 - 7 Day Boating Entrance fee - $30.00
Admits one single private vessel. If a Senior Pass is presented at time of purchase, the boat entrance fee is $15.00 and good for 1-7 Days
Q:Are pets allowed in the recreation area?
A:
Pets are not allowed in the archeological sites, all marinas, docks, always, and launch ramps with the exception of when proceeding directly to and from a boat. Pets are not allowed along the San Juan River from Clay Hill Crossing upstream to the Glen Canyon NRA boundary, the Orange Cliffs, Rainbow Bridge, Coyote Gulch, and a portion of Cathedral Wash between the road and the Colorado River. Pets may be allowed in picnic areas, parking lots, and campsites. You can not leave your pet unattended or tied up to an object. Pets must be on a leash no longer than six feet (1.8 meters) at all times. Owners must clean up after their pets.
