On a recent spur-of-the-moment trip to Utah, we finally checked something big off our list—Rainbow Bridge National Monument. And by big, we mean one of the largest natural bridges in the world—nearly as tall as the Statue of Liberty!
This remote and sacred place has been on our bucket list for over a decade, but the boat tours to get there had been shut down since 2019 due to low water levels in Lake Powell. So when we discovered they had resumed service this past August (2023), we jumped at the chance.
What followed was a stunning all-day adventure—part boat ride, part hike, part geology lesson, and 100% awe-inspiring.
To listen to our podcast episode about our visit to Rainbow Bridge, follow this link.
Why Rainbow Bridge Is So Special
First, a little background: Rainbow Bridge is sacred to the Navajo people, and sits on Navajo land just south of Lake Powell. The bridge stands 290 feet tall, spans 275 feet, and is a thick, sturdy slab of red rock shaped over millions of years by water erosion.
Although it looks like a natural arch, geologists (and enthusiastic podcasters) will tell you that a natural bridge typically forms from water cutting through rock, while arches are usually wind-eroded.
Accessing the bridge isn’t easy. You either take a multi-day backpacking trip across the desert, or—our preference—a scenic boat tour across Lake Powell followed by a 1.2-mile walk to the monument. Spoiler: we chose the boat ride.
The Boat Tour: Scenic, Serene, and Surprisingly Monumental
The tour departs from Wahweap Marina, just outside Page, Arizona, and takes you 50 miles up Lake Powell. Along the way, the scenery changes dramatically—from low cliffs to towering spires and narrow canyons that feel like sailing through a sandstone slot canyon.
It’s genuinely one of the most beautiful boat rides we’ve ever taken. We said more than once: even if the bridge weren’t at the end, the journey alone would’ve been worth it.
Onboard, we were led by two Navajo women—our captain and first mate—who shared stories, history, and cultural insights. The boat was only half full, which made the peaceful experience even more special.
Standing in the Presence of Giants
After docking, we walked about 1.2 miles to Rainbow Bridge. As we rounded a bend, there it was—massive, majestic, and deeply humbling. The trail leads to a viewpoint and continues around the back without passing directly under the bridge, in keeping with Navajo traditions.
At the trail’s end, high on the canyon wall, are two plaques honoring the Paiute guides who led the first official expedition in 1909. That history makes standing there feel like more than a visit—it’s a moment of connection across generations.
What You Need to Know
- Tours run (when water levels permit) on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays.
- Check out Lake Powell Resorts and Marinas website here for all the details about booking a tour.
- Cost: (When we went) $145/adult (includes lunch, drinks, and narration).
- Duration: All-day; approx. 3 hours each way plus 90 minutes at the site.
- Hike: Easy 1.2-mile trail to the bridge from the dock.
- Stamp alert: Want a passport stamp? Stop at the Carl Hayden Visitor Center near the dam.
Is It Worth It?
Absolutely. This was one of the most unique and moving National Park experiences we’ve had. And because the boat tours rely on water levels, we’d recommend going sooner rather than later—who knows what future droughts may bring?
Whether you’re a park passport stamp collector, a geology nerd, or just someone who appreciates beauty off the beaten path, Rainbow Bridge deserves a place on your lifetime list.
