Discover Lake Powell - A Grand Canyon Water Wonderland

Day 1: Embarkation & Lone Rock Sunset Serenity

• Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Arrive at Wahweap Marina (or Antelope Point Marina, depending on rental location) in Page, Arizona. Complete check-in procedures for your houseboat rental. This typically involves paperwork, a safety briefing, and a thorough orientation to the houseboat’s features and operation. Expect to spend 2-3 hours on this process.
  • Practical Tip: Before arriving, ensure you have pre-purchased your Glen Canyon National Recreation Area entrance pass ($30/vehicle for 7 days, or $55 for a houseboat launch pass if you have no other vehicle pass). Budget for your houseboat rental cost (e.g., $2,500 - $4,000 for 5 days, depending on size/season) which is the largest portion of your budget.
• Afternoon (12:00 PM - 5:00 PM) After orientation, cast off! Head north from Wahweap Marina, cruising towards Lone Rock Beach. This is a relatively short and easy first cruise (approx. 5-7 miles, 1-1.5 hours) allowing you to get comfortable piloting the houseboat. Anchor in the calm waters near Lone Rock, a prominent geological formation. Spend the afternoon swimming, paddleboarding, or kayaking around the iconic rock.
  • Practical Tip: Take your time learning the controls. Houseboats handle differently than smaller boats. Fuel costs will be significant over the trip, budget $500-$1000+.
• Evening Enjoy your first dinner onboard, cooked in your houseboat’s galley. Grill some pre-prepped steaks or fresh fish while watching the sunset paint the sky over Lone Rock and Lake Powell. Afterward, settle in for stargazing; Lake Powell offers incredibly dark skies away from city lights. A cozy evening with cards or a good book.

Day 2: Into the Heart of Padre Bay & Canyons

• Morning (7:00 AM - 12:00 PM) After a hearty breakfast, set a course deeper into Padre Bay, one of Lake Powell’s largest and most scenic expanses. Cruise past Cookie Jar Butte and into the mouth of Navajo Canyon (approx. 15-20 miles from Lone Rock, 2-3 hours cruise time). The sheer sandstone walls begin to rise dramatically here. Drop anchor at the entrance or inside a suitable cove in Navajo Canyon.
  • Practical Tip: Keep an eye on your charts (GPS is essential) and monitor fuel levels. Houseboats are slow, so factor in significant travel time between destinations.
• Afternoon (12:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Switch to your smaller vessel (dinghy, kayak, or paddleboard) to explore Navajo Canyon more intimately. Paddle through the narrow, twisting passages, marveling at the towering canyon walls and the serene, reflective water. Look for hidden alcoves and listen to the echo of your voice. This is a perfect spot for photography and quiet reflection.
  • Practical Tip: Bring plenty of water and sun protection when exploring smaller canyons. Ensure your smaller craft is securely tethered when not in use.
• Evening Return to the houseboat for sundowners and another onboard dinner. Perhaps try a campfire on a suitable beach if conditions allow and you have a fire pan (check NPS regulations). Enjoy the profound silence of the canyon, broken only by the lapping of water against the hull. The night sky here is even more spectacular, devoid of any light pollution.

Day 3: Majestic Rainbow Bridge & West Canyon Wonders

• Morning (7:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Embark on the longest journey of the trip to Rainbow Bridge National Monument (approx. 30-35 miles from Navajo Canyon, 4-5 hours cruise). This iconic natural bridge is one of the world’s largest. As you approach, dock your houseboat at the designated courtesy docks near the monument.
  • Practical Tip: This long leg requires an early start. Pack snacks and drinks for the journey. Arrive at Rainbow Bridge before the heat of the day. The NPS asks for quiet respect while approaching the monument out of reverence to local tribes.
• Afternoon (12:00 PM - 4:00 PM) From the docks, it’s a relatively easy 1.25-mile walk (2.5 miles round trip, 1.5-2 hours) on a paved path to the base of Rainbow Bridge. Take your time to admire the majestic arch and learn about its geological and cultural significance. After exploring, return to your houseboat.
  • Practical Tip: Wear sturdy shoes for the walk. Bring a camera and water. There are restrooms at the dock area.
• Evening After departing Rainbow Bridge, cruise a short distance back towards West Canyon (5-7 miles, 1-1.5 hours) and find a serene, secluded anchorage deep within. West Canyon offers stunning scenery and incredible privacy. Enjoy a final onboard feast – perhaps a celebratory dinner with your favorite dishes. Reflect on the day’s majestic sights under a blanket of stars.

Day 4: Secluded Coves & Watersports Galore

• Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Wake up in the tranquility of West Canyon. This morning is dedicated to pure relaxation and water activities. Jump in for a refreshing swim, or take out the kayaks/paddleboards to explore more hidden corners of West Canyon. You might even find a small sandy beach to relax on.
  • Practical Tip: This is a great day to deploy any water toys you rented or brought along. Fishing is also an option; a valid Arizona fishing license is required.
• Afternoon (12:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Begin your journey south, slowly making your way back towards the marina area. Instead of rushing, choose a new, enticing cove in the general vicinity of Face Canyon or Labyrinth Canyon (approx. 15-20 miles from West Canyon, 2-3 hours cruise). Drop anchor and spend the afternoon tubing, wakeboarding (if your houseboat has a tender/ski boat), or simply lounging on the houseboat deck, soaking up the sun and the breathtaking scenery.
  • Practical Tip: Start consolidating your belongings and planning for the return process. Check your charts for unique rock formations or potential short hiking opportunities from the water.
• Evening Enjoy a final evening meal on the houseboat, perhaps utilizing any leftover fresh groceries. This is a perfect time for a casual BBQ and reliving your favorite moments from the adventure. Play some board games or simply enjoy the peaceful evening. A memorable final sunset over the vast expanse of Lake Powell.

Day 5: Leisurely Return & Farewell Lake Powell

• Morning (8:00 AM - 11:00 AM) Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and a final swim in the lake. Begin the cruise back towards Wahweap Marina (approx. 10-15 miles, 1.5-2.5 hours cruise). Take your time, enjoying the last views of the unique landscape.
  • Practical Tip: Start tidying up the houseboat, packing personal items, and organizing trash. This makes the check-out process smoother.
• Afternoon (11:00 AM - 2:00 PM) Upon arrival back at the marina, head to the fuel dock to refill your houseboat (expect $500-$1000+ for fuel for the entire trip, depending on usage). After refueling, proceed to the pump-out station to empty waste tanks. Finally, return the houseboat to its designated slip. Complete the check-out inspection with the marina staff.
  • Practical Tip: Allow ample time for refueling and pump-out, especially during peak hours. Confirm exact return procedures with the rental company beforehand.
• Evening After disembarking, you might choose to enjoy a celebratory meal in Page, Arizona, at a local favorite like Slackers Burger Joint or Big John’s Texas BBQ, before heading home. This allows for a final reflection on your incredible Lake Powell adventure.
  • Budget Note: The total cost for 2 people, including a mid-range houseboat rental, fuel, groceries, and national park fees, should comfortably fit within the $3,000 - $5,000 budget, especially if you maximize cooking on board.

Day 1: Arrival, Ancient Views & Canyon’s Edge

• Morning (Flexible - 1:00 PM) Arrive in Page, Arizona. Many visitors fly into Flagstaff (FLG), Grand Canyon (GCN), or Las Vegas (LAS) and rent a car for the scenic drive to Page. Check into your accommodation, such as the Hyatt Place Page/Lake Powell or Hampton Inn & Suites Page - Lake Powell. Settle in and grab a quick, casual lunch at a local spot like Slackers Burgers & Cheesesteaks (Budget: ~$25-35 for two).
• Afternoon (2:00 PM - 6:00 PM) Head to the iconic Horseshoe Bend Overlook. It’s a short 10-minute drive from Page. The paved trail to the overlook is 1.5 miles roundtrip and takes approximately 30-45 minutes to walk each way. Late afternoon offers beautiful lighting for photographs without the harsh midday sun. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water.
  • Practical Tip: There’s a $10 per vehicle entrance fee (credit card only).
• Evening Enjoy a hearty dinner at Big John’s Texas BBQ, a beloved local spot known for its authentic smoked meats and live music (seasonal).
  • Dining Estimate: ~$40-60 for two.

Day 2: Slot Canyon Magic & Lake Powell’s Depths

• Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Embark on a mesmerizing tour of Antelope Canyon. You’ll need to pre-book this well in advance as tours often sell out. Options include Lower Antelope Canyon (Ken’s Tours or Antelope Canyon X) or Upper Antelope Canyon (Antelope Canyon Navajo Tours). Lower Antelope Canyon is often preferred for its ladders and unique angles, while Upper is known for its light beams (seasonal). The tour typically lasts 1.5-2 hours.
  • Practical Tip: Arrive at your tour operator’s meeting point at least 30 minutes prior to your scheduled time. Wear sturdy shoes.
  • Cost Estimate: $60-90+ per person, includes Navajo Nation permit fees.
• Afternoon (1:30 PM - 5:00 PM) After a quick lunch in Page (try Canyon Crepes Cafe for a lighter option, ~$25-35 for two), make your way to Wahweap Marina (about a 15-minute drive from Page) for a scenic boat tour on Lake Powell. Consider the Antelope Canyon Boat Tour (approx. 2.5 hours) which takes you deep into the winding canyon by water, offering a completely different perspective than the land-based slot canyon tour. Other tours explore Navajo Canyon or Padre Bay.
  • Cost Estimate: $80-100 per person.
• Evening Indulge in a relaxing dinner with views at The Patio at Lake Powell Resort (seasonal availability recommended to check) or enjoy Mexican cuisine at Fiesta Mexicana, a popular choice in Page.
  • Dining Estimate: ~$50-80 for two.

Day 3: Dam Views, Departure & Lasting Memories

• Morning (9:00 AM - 11:30 AM) Start your day with a visit to the Glen Canyon Dam Overlook Trail. This short, easy trail (0.2 miles one way) leads to a stunning viewpoint overlooking the Colorado River and the magnificent Glen Canyon Dam. It’s a free activity and offers fantastic photo opportunities. Afterwards, you can drive to the Glen Canyon Dam Visitor Center for closer views of the dam and to learn about its history and impact (check for tour availability if interested, tours are typically free or low cost).
• Late Morning (11:30 AM - 12:30 PM) Check out from your hotel.
• Lunch (12:30 PM - 1:30 PM) Enjoy a final lunch in Page. Strombolli’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria is a great option for a satisfying meal before hitting the road.
  • Dining Estimate: ~$30-45 for two.
• Afternoon (1:30 PM onwards) Begin your journey home or to your next destination, carrying unforgettable memories of Lake Powell and Page’s natural wonders.