The Remote Destination in Arizona Where the Drive Is Worth the Final View

If there is one scenic drive in Arizona that belongs on your list, it’s Highway 89. Driving through Grand Canyon country and Navajo land, you can literally see some of the most incredible views in the state. This is my favorite type of road trip, one where I get to see several landscapes within a short distance. And when your final destination is an overlook with expansive views of Lake Powell, how can you go wrong with that? Intrigued? Come with me on this scenic drive to the Wahweap Overlook in Page, where the trip is worth the reward at the end. The drive to this remote destination in Arizona is one you won’t forget. 

You’ve probably been on your share of road trips in Arizona, right? But if you’ve never cruised on scenic Highway 89, now it’s your time to do so. At 201 miles long, it begins in Flagstaff, splits into two, then crosses over the Utah State Line. It’s a scenic drive that you can do in one day, with plenty of time to spare to take a hike or enjoy several of the sites and attractions along the way. 

Some of the epic sites include the Wupatki National Monument, the Glen Canyon Dam, and, of course, the most famous canyon in America — the Grand Canyon. Moreover, you’ll drive through the Navajo Nation, meandering along Echo Cliffs, which stretches for 60 miles along Highway 89. The colorful cliffs are the perfect backdrop for your photos. Oh, and yes, be sure to have your camera and binoculars in hand — you’ll need them for this trip. 

By the time you get to Wahweap Overlook, which is just about five miles from the Utah State line, you’ll be blown away by the countless jaw-dropping vistas. Any outdoor enthusiast would agree that this drive to the northernmost part of Arizona is worth all the rewards. Additionally, there are numerous opportunities to hike, swim, boat, visit national monuments, and more. The final stop is literally just the icing on the cake. 

At 4,200 feet high at the Wahweap Overlook, you will witness the most expansive views of Lake Powell. Other backdrops include the Colorado River, Castle Rock, Navajo Mountain, Tower Butte, Glen Canyon Dam, and Wahweap Bay, just to name a few. You can’t beat this view, and we recommend you plan your trip to see the sunset. There are a couple of benches and a shed here, so you can pack lunch while you marvel at Arizona’s stunning landscape. 

Driving to this remote destination in Arizona will also grant you access to Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, but you’ll need to pay a small fee to get in. But best of all, you can take the easy trek to see the world-famous Horseshoe Bend, too. It's a bucket-list destination for many, including myself!

Horseshoe Bend is an extremely popular destination, largely due to viral social media posts, so expect crowds. There's also a fee to access the trail and overlook. Visit the National Park Service website for current entry fees.

To be honest, this scenic drive on Highway 89 will probably lead you to a week-long adventure. So, if you need a place to stay, here’s a top hotel in Page that’s only 5 miles from the overlook. Lake Powell Resort overlooks the lake and offers on-site dining, a fitness center, pool, and hot tub. Trust me, this trip to northern Arizona is worth all the incredible rewards in the end. 

Address: 1000 US-89, Page, AZ 86040

Pro Tip: The Wahweap Overlook is free, but there is another scenic spot, Wahweap Viewpoint, inside Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, that you’ll need to pay to access unless you have a NPS pass. The overlook is located on a side street on the right, just three miles north after you pass the Carl Hayden Visitor Center.  

Well, are you ready to see the best that the Grand Canyon State has to offer? Gas up the car and let’s go! And if you're in the mood for another scenic drive, try the Pinal Pioneer Parkway between Phoenix and Tucson.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own scenic drive through Arizona using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.