Your Best Summer Experience Isn’t by Car, It’s on a Scenic Boat Tour on Lake Powell in Arizona

Summers in Arizona can be brutal, to say the least. Between the dry heat and triple-digit temperatures, I can’t blame folks for wanting to remain indoors. During the warmer months, I love spending time cooling off by the water. It doesn’t matter if I am boating, swimming, or simply taking a stroll; if water is involved, count me in! Obviously, it’s a great way to find relief from the grueling heat. Are you searching for a fun activity for the summer? Check out this ultimate boat tour of Lake Powell in Page, AZ. Not only will you escape the scorching temperatures, but you’ll also witness the mind-blowing views of the red rock cliffs along the scenic oasis. If you ask me, it’s one of the best things to do in summer in Arizona, and you won’t forget it.

Lake Powell is Arizona’s most stunning waterway. Impressively, it’s the second-largest manmade reservoir in the country with about 2,000 miles of shoreline spread across Arizona and Utah. Formed in 1963, after the damming of Glen Canyon on the Colorado River, this awe-inspiring gem is known as “America’s Favorite Playground.” And what a playground it is! 

Each year, millions of visitors take advantage of the calm waters with endless boating, swimming, paddling, and fishing opportunities. Plus, it’s located within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and boasts over 90 canyons, several marinas, and plenty of places for camping and vacationing. And speaking of vacationing, if you’re like me and have dreamt of renting a stylish houseboat, you can do that here, too.  

Another reason to visit? To cruise this outdoor playground on a scenic boat tour. Sure, you can rent a pontoon or powerboat, but then you’ll miss out on hearing the history of the lake and seeing the hidden spots along the way. Not to mention, you can skip the fuel cost and the hassle of navigating a motorized water vessel and opt for a peaceful experience instead. 

Luckily, several places offer guided boat tours, including Lake Powell Resorts and Marinas and Antelope Point Marina. Each tour provides opportunities to see the lake's narrow canyons and unique formations. Depending on the excursion, potential sites include Antelope Canyon, Navajo Canyons, Navajo Sandstone, and the Glen Canyon Dam. Drifting past these incredible formations with the breeze blowing in your face is a one-of-a-kind adventure and the ultimate summertime excursion in Arizona. You won’t want to miss it! 

One of the most iconic excursions takes visitors to Rainbow Bridge National Monument (which borders Arizona and Utah) to see arguably the world’s largest natural bridge. Lake Powell Resort offers this all-day expedition, and you’ll need to hike for about two miles. 

Want a more intimate experience? Grab five of your friends and family and cruise the lake on one of the private boat tours. You’ll have more close encounters with the incredible hidden wonders around Lake Powell. Those seeking a romantic outing can sail into the sunset on the two-hour Canyon Princess Dinner Cruise. As you glide across the lake, soak up the beautiful scenes of the glowing cliffs and the skies painted with shades of amber. You can’t go wrong with a gourmet meal, a cash bar, and Mother Nature’s stunning show. 

Carve out about 90 minutes to two hours for each tour, not including the 30 to 45 minutes needed to check in for the tours. Most boat rides are scheduled for the mornings to avoid the warmest part of the afternoon, so be ready for an early start to your day. While you can’t fully escape the summer heat, prepare for your trip by wearing comfortable loose clothing. A hat and sunscreen would be ideal as well. Water, coffee, and lemonade are available on some of the tours, but I’d recommend bringing extra water and, of course, snacks. Most importantly, don’t forget your camera at home. You’ll want to capture the incredible moments on this ultimate boat tour of Lake Powell. 

Prices will vary depending on the outing you choose, but you can visit the National Park Service website to select the ride that’s best for you. The website also provides more ways to explore Lake Powell and Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. Please note: Boat ride prices do not include admission to Glen Canyon.

What is your favorite summer activity in Arizona? Visit our nomination page and tell us all about it - we’d love to hear from you. And while you’re in Page, check out Horseshoe Bend, one of the most bucket-list-worthy destinations in Arizona.