Lake Powell, an Aquatic Paradise

by Steve Hazy

Along the Utah and Arizona state border in the American southwest lies one of the most spectacular lake destinations in the world.  This aquatic paradise boasts approximately two thousand miles of shoreline and hundreds of private canyons and coves – all surrounded by majestic red cliffs and mesas.

Lake Powell was formed following the construction of the Glen Canyon Dam, turning Glen Canyon into a gigantic reservoir. Lake Powell has something to offer any visitor. For the avid aquatic enthusiast, there is hardly a better place for waterskiing, wake boarding and wake surfing.  Skiing while surrounded by red cliffs rising from the water’s edge is a truly unforgettable experience. Lake Powell is also home of Rainbow Bridge, an elegant natural sandstone arch. This arch and many other sights make the lake and surrounding areas a popular place for hiking.

 

There are also boat tours from the main marina (Wahweap) that provide an easy means for visitors to see the sights of this large lake without having to drive a boat and navigate themselves. In the summertime, water temperatures are typically around 80 degrees (the best time to visit is May – September).  The weather is usually quite warm (usually 90-100 degrees in summertime), but almost every day is sunny and clear.  A big plus is the absence of biting bugs, thanks to the dry desert air. There are several different ways for visitors to enjoy the lake.  Many prefer to experience Lake Powell on a houseboat. This enables longer stays on the lake as well as the ability to sleep on the lake overnight.  One of the highlights of this method of Lake Powell lodging is watching the sunset and seeing vivid star displays in the clear desert night sky. For those less interested in “camping”, the city of Page, Arizona (only a short distance from the lake) has many hotels and restaurants for those wishing to spend the day on the lake and return to more modern comforts at night. Getting to Lake Powell is easy. There is commercial air service into Page, Arizona. The lake is also accessible by car (about a five hour drive from Las Vegas). It’s hard to fully describe the splendor and beauty of this unique aquatic gem. It’s a place you have to visit and experience for yourself!