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When we set out on our Arizona road trip, visiting Horseshoe Bend was high on our must-see list. We had our two dogs with us in the stroller, and we were lucky enough to snap some beautiful photos before the skies opened up and it started pouring! If there’s one thing we learned during our visit, it’s that the weather can change quickly out here, so come prepared.

If you’re planning your own trip to Horseshoe Bend, especially with dogs, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your visit.

How Much Time is Needed at Horseshoe Bend?

Most visitors spend about an hour at Horseshoe Bend. That time usually covers the short hike from the parking lot, soaking in the view, snapping photos, and enjoying the moment. If you plan to stick around for a picnic or catch the sunset, consider setting aside up to two hours.

Since we had the dogs with us, we took our time and moved at a relaxed pace. We planned for about 90 minutes, but a sudden rainstorm had us wrapping up a little faster! It’s smart to leave some extra time in your schedule, just in case the weather shifts or the trail gets busy.

Can You Just Drive Up to Horseshoe Bend?

You can drive very close to Horseshoe Bend, but you won’t be able to park right at the overlook. Instead, you’ll find a large, paved parking lot just off U.S. Route 89, a few minutes south of Page, Arizona. From there, it’s a relatively easy 0.75-mile hike (one way) to reach the stunning viewpoint.

The trail is wide, clearly marked, and well-maintained. While there are a few gentle hills and some sandy stretches, we had no trouble pushing our dog stroller along the path. It’s a manageable walk for most visitors, including those with kids or pets.

There is a fee to park, but you won’t need to pay anything extra to access the trail or overlook (we’ll share more details on that below).

Hike Difficulty

The hike to Horseshoe Bend is considered easy to moderate. It’s relatively short at around 1.5 miles round-trip, but the desert sun and sandy hills can make it feel more strenuous if you’re not prepared.

If you’re bringing dogs, small children, or using a stroller like we did, make sure to:

• Bring plenty of water
• Wear sturdy shoes
• Take breaks as needed
• Watch out for slick sand if it rains

Our biggest challenge was pushing the stroller back up the gradual hill after the rain started, but overall, it’s a manageable and family-friendly hike.

Hours and Fees

Horseshoe Bend is open year-round, and you can visit any time of day. However, there are some fees to know about:

• Parking Fee: $10 per vehicle (as of our visit)
• No separate entrance fee once you park
• No National Parks Pass acceptance (Horseshoe Bend is managed by the City of Page, not the National Park Service)

The parking lot is gated, but it’s usually open from sunrise to sunset. Check local signs for the most current hours if you’re visiting during off-season or holidays.

Best Time to Visit Horseshoe Bend

Timing your visit can make a huge difference in both crowd levels and the quality of your photos. Here’s what we learned:

• Early Morning: Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures, softer light
• Midday: Bright lighting, but can be harsh for photos, and very hot
• Sunset: Stunning colors, but often extremely crowded
• After a Storm: If you catch it just right, clouds and wet rock can make the colors pop beautifully

We visited late morning, and while it was beautiful, the weather changed fast. We got some great shots before it poured, so pack a lightweight rain jacket just in case!

Things to Do Near Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend is just minutes from the town of Page, Arizona, and there’s so much more to explore nearby:

• Glen Canyon Dam Overlook – Stunning views of the dam and the Colorado River
• Lake Powell – Perfect for boating, fishing, and kayaking
• Antelope Canyon – One of the most famous slot canyons (guided tours required)
• Page Rim Trail – An easy hiking and biking trail around the town with scenic desert views

If you’re making this part of a larger trip (like we were), it’s easy to pair Horseshoe Bend with Antelope Canyon or even Lake Powell for a full day of adventure.

Best Place to Hike Near Horseshoe Bend

If you’re up for more hiking after visiting Horseshoe Bend, consider these nearby trails:

• Wire Pass Trail to Buckskin Gulch – A bit of a drive, but offers incredible slot canyon experiences without the crowds of Antelope Canyon.
• Page Rim Trail – 10-mile loop around the town of Page, dog-friendly, and less busy than the more touristy spots.
• Glen Canyon Dam Overlook Trail – A short, easy hike with panoramic views, located just a few minutes away.

Each of these hikes is dog-friendly, but always double-check trail rules and bring extra water for your pets.

Restroom Facilities

There are restrooms available at the Horseshoe Bend parking lot. They are basic facilities (vault toilets) but well-maintained. There are no restrooms along the trail or at the overlook itself, so plan accordingly before you start the hike.

We made sure the dogs were taken care of at the parking lot before heading to the overlook!

Final Thoughts on Visiting Horseshoe Bend with Dogs

Horseshoe Bend deserves a spot on every Arizona road trip itinerary. This stunning natural wonder offers a short, breathtaking walk that’s accessible to almost everyone—including four-legged family members! We brought our dogs along in a stroller, and their excitement added something truly special to the experience.

Be prepared, though—the desert weather can shift quickly. Bring plenty of water, sun protection, and a backup plan in case of rain. After snapping our photos, we watched a storm roll in across the canyon, and it turned into one of our favorite road trip memories. Rain or shine, Horseshoe Bend made a lasting impression and became a highlight of our adventure.