Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Lake Powell?
Lake Powell is considered a man made lake otherwise known as a reservoir. Lake Powell is located on the Colorado River and was made by the damming of a section of the river, this is known as the Glen Canyon Dam. Lake Powell stretches over multiple states and time zones, so be aware of your watch and what time zone you’re launching from. The Lake Powell Utah portion of the water includes launch ramps such as Stateline Launch ramp, Bullfrog Marina and Launch ramp and also Lake Powell’s Lone Rock and Lone Rock beach. The Lake Powell Arizona portion of the water includes the launch ramps such as Wahweap Marina and Antelope Point Marina. Lake Powell and the city Page Arizona is a major vacation spot visited by approximately two million people every year. It is the second largest man made lake (reservoir) by maximum water capacity in the United States, Lake Mead being the largest man made lake (reservoir) in the United States Lake Mead, storing 24,322,000 acre-feet of water when full. Although Lake Mead has fallen below Lake Powell in size several times since Lake Powell’s creation in the late 1950’s in terms of volume of water, depth and surface area.
Lake Powell was created by the flooding of Glen Canyon by the Glen Canyon Dam, which also led to the 1972 creation of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area or as we all know and Love it as Lake Powell, a popular summer destination that is managed by the National Park Service. The reservoir is named after John Wesley Powell, who was a civil war veteran that with his team explored the river via three wooden boats in 1869. Lake Powell primarily lies in the counties of Garfield, Kane, and San Juan in southern Utah, with a small portion in Coconino County in northern Arizona, which is also the county that Page Arizona is in. The northern limits of the lake extend at least as far as the Hite Crossing Bridge.
Has the water level affected access to Lake Powell for paddling?
The current lake level is great for paddling and hiking. If you've read that Lake Powell water levels have gone down, keep in mind the lake is still over 400' deep! Some canyons are better at low water levels and others are better at high water levels, but there are always great areas to visit. Refer to lakepowell.water-data.com for current water data.
At this time the current water level of Lake Powell has unfortunately dropped to a point that has made certain launch ramps for motorboat launching and retrievals inaccessible. These launch ramps include Wahweap and Antelope Point Public launch ramps. It has also caused the closing of Dangling Rope, Bullfrog Marina launch ramp and Rainbow Bridge docking. However, the Stateline Auxiliary launch ramp is currently open and accessible for motorboat and houseboat launch and retrieval and docking. The Stateline Launch ramp is located just north of Wahweap Marina and directly adjacent to the main Stateline Launch ramp.
This water level limitation is only effective towards motorboats that can access Lake Powell but other than making the walk a little longer for us paddlers it hasn't affected our ability to get to the lake and onto the water. You can still launch your Paddleboard or Kayak at any of the access points on the lake. Which includes Bullfrog Marina, Wahweap Marina and Antelope Point Public launch ramp.
Even though the water level is at a low, Lake Powell still has plenty of water to enjoy. The new water level has opened up a forgotten Lake Powell with new canyons to paddle, new views and observation points, amazing landmarks and so much more. For paddlers it's a once in a lifetime opportunity to visit spots on Lake Powell that may never show itself again. Let's take advantage of this opportunity while we can! Rent a Paddleboard or Kayak Today!
Where are we Located?
We are located right off the main street in Page, Arizona and only 15 minutes away from Lake Powell. Our office and store address is 910 Coppermine Rd. Page, Arizona 86040. We are directly adjacent to “The Bowl” bowling alley and the “Lake Powell Conversation Center” information center. You’ll see our roadside signage and a large flagpole on our property. Please come in and visit with our friendly staff!
When do we Open?
We are open seasonally from March - October. We do offer some off season rentals, please message us at Hello@PaddleboardLakePowell.com for more information on winter rentals.
Our on season office hours are from 8:00am - 6:00pm, Monday - Friday. We do also offer earlier pick ups if you’re anxious to get out on the lake with the sunrise. To schedule those pick ups please call our office or email us at Hello@PaddleboardLakePowell.com.
When Should I Book?
We highly recommend booking your guided kayak tour or guided paddleboard tour AS SOON AS POSSIBLE! Although we would love to be able to take everyone out on the lake with us, unfortunately we can’t and our tours tend to book up very quickly. So please if you’d like one of our guided tours on Lake Powell book it as soon as you can.
We have the same recommendation for our Paddleboard rentals and our kayak rentals. Those tend to go very quickly during the busy season so book those as quickly as you can, we usually sell out of our rentals daily.
​
Are we practicing COVID-19 policies?
We are following all of the COVID-19 recommendations from the State of Arizona, the National Park Service and CDC guideline regulations.
What are the Paddleboards we rent?
The stand up paddleboards that we have in our rental fleet and the ones we provide in our guided tours are top of line durable inflatable paddleboards. Our paddleboards come from the Sol Paddleboard company. This is a USA based company that was founded by paddleboarders for paddleboarders. Their paddleboards have multiple patent pending features and are made with durable materials that are glue free. They have a phantom no glue construction with 4 front and 4 rear tie-downs and a patent pending carry strap. Our boards have oversized D-rings for sturdy loads, and an anti-slip diamond foam deck pad and a raised rear surf kick for added performance.
Our Paddleboards are for everyone from the brand new paddler to the pros. Our boards have a broad base for better balance and reinforced tie downs for longer floats and adventures. You’ll love our fleet, you might love it so much you’ll want to take one home with you!
What are the Kayaks we rent?
We offer both sit on top single and sit on top double kayaks. We use the Feel Free kayak models. These are both reinforced and stabilized sit on top kayaks that are proven in their durability and performance. Our sit on top on top kayaks stack together easily for transportation and are made from hydrodynamic molded design that helps reinforce the sides and bottom of the kayak while allowing the kayak to glide easily through the water, tracking straight.
What gear is included in our Paddleboard Rental?
Your Paddleboard rental will include 1 Paddleboard, 1 life jacket (PFD), 1 paddle, 1 leash, and 1 air pump. If you decide to use our free delivery system where we will deliver your rental down to a designated area at one of the launch sites at Lake Powell. We will have your paddleboard inflated for you there before your arrival. At that point you can choose to take the provided air pump with you for the remainder of your rental time or not.
Additional gear such as dry bags, waterproof phone cases, hats, sunscreen, snacks, etc., are also available for rent and purchase in our store.
What gear is included in our Kayak Rental?
Your Kayak Rental includes 1 single or double sit-on-top kayak, 1 attachable seat for a single person sit-on-top rental and 2 attachable seats for a double sit-on-top rental. 1 paddle for single kayaks and 2 paddles for double kayaks, 1 life jacket (PFD) for single kayaks and 2 life jackets (PFD’s) for double kayak rentals.
Additional gear such as dry bags, waterproof phone cases, hats, sunscreen, snacks, etc., are also available for rent and purchase in our store.
Do we offer half day rentals?
Unfortunately no we do not offer half day rentals on our Paddleboards or Kayaks at this time. If you are looking for a quick paddle and a good time we’d recommend taking one of our guided tours.
How do I get my rental down to the Lake?
We recommend taking advantage of our free delivery service where we will deliver your paddleboard or kayak rental directly to Antelope Point Public Launch ramp on Lake Powell for you our drop off and pick up times are at 8:00 am and must be returned by 5 pm. You can also take your equipment to the lake and launch on your from the areas Antelope Point Marina, Antelope Point Public Launch Ramp, Wahweap Marina, Stateline Launch Ramp and auxiliary ramp and Lone Rock beach.
We do not offer kayak or paddleboard deliveries to Lees Ferry or for early rental pick ups. In those cases we provide straps and pads for the kayaks to be able to be strapped harmlessly and securely to your vehicle. We have a proven system that works on almost any vehicle. The paddleboards will be given to you deflated for easy transportation. Once you reach your destination you’ll be able to easily just inflate your paddleboard with the provided pump and be off on your journey.
We have a houseboat rental, can we rent for multiple days?
Absolutely you can! Not only are you more than welcome to rent your Paddleboard or Kayak for multiple days, we actually will give you a significantly discounted rate for rentals taken out for 3 or more days.
Where should I go with my rental?
Lake Powell is packed full of amazing places for you to go enjoy a nice paddle. So depending on how much time you have to paddle on the lake will impact places that you'd want to visit. One day rentals we’d recommend going to any of the following locations: Antelope Canyon, Lone Rock Beach, Ice Cream Canyon and the Wahweap Window or the Sandhill in Wahweap Bay.
For multiple day or overnight rentals we recommend the following areas:
1) Colorado River - See Colorado River tab for details. Designated campsites with toilets. No rapids, but cold water. Time needed: At least 1.5 days. Paddling distance: 15 miles. Highlights: Incredible Grand Canyon-esque scenery. Trout fishing.
2) Navajo Canyon - Launch from Antelope Point Marina, a 15 minute drive from our office. Time needed: 1-3 nights. Paddling distance: 10 - 40 miles. Highlights: Nice camping only 5 miles away at the mouth of Navajo Canyon, which makes an excellent base for day trips into the canyon. Steep, red walled canyon. Opportunity to explore Antelope Canyon (see above). Additional information: Powerboat wakes can make paddling up Navajo Canyon difficult. Once you enter the canyon, there is no place to camp or even exit your kayak for the first 8 miles.
3) Labyrinth Canyon - Launch from Antelope Point Marina, a 15 minute drive from our office. Time needed: 2-4 nights. Paddling distance - 32 miles. Highlights: Very scenic slot canyon, with opportunities to explore on land and water. Nice camping spots in Labyrinth Bay. Additional information: Powerboat wakes can make paddling up the main channel (mile 6-10 especially) very challenging, especially on weekends. High cliff walls on the main channel may make it impossible to reach shore for long stretches of several miles.
4) Labyrinth Canyon with motorboat shuttle - For most paddlers, hiring a motorboat shuttle is required. Contact info later in FAQ. Time needed: 1-2 nights. Paddling distance - 8 to 20 miles.
5) Face Canyon - 18 miles from Antelope Point Marina (6 miles up lake from Labyrinth Canyon). Face Canyon is about 4 miles long. For most paddlers, hiring a motorboat shuttle is required. Time Needed: 4+ days without water taxi. Highlights - Scenic canyon with very high walls and good camping within the canyon. Hike to an arch possible.
6) West Canyon - 24 miles from Antelope Point Marina (6 miles up from Face Canyon and 12 miles up from Labyrinth Canyon). West Canyon is about 7 miles long. For most paddlers, hiring a motorboat shuttle is required. Time needed: 5+ days without a water taxi. Highlights - Very long canyon. One of the best hikes on Lake Powell is at the end. Be prepared for wading or swimming though cold water. Usually there are sandbars for camping at the very end of the canyon.
What tours do we offer?
We offer two amazing tours that we perform with our partner companies Hidden Canyon Kayak and Kayak Powell. These tours are:
Antelope Canyon Slot Canyon Hike and Kayak Tour. This is an amazing tour that hikes through the miraculous lower Antelope Canyon canyon and a kayak under the massive Antelope Canyon cliffs that provide endless scenery and amazing views all the way through to the lower Antelope Canyon hike. This tour on average is 4 hours in duration.
The Dam Kayak tour. This Dam tour starts off with a beautiful overlook hike of Wahweap bay and Antelope Island. The hike provides incredible views of the surrounding area including Navajo mountain and geological features that you’ll only find at Lake Powell. You’ll then launch from a sand beach down the tall canyon leading up to the Glen Canyon Dam. We’ll get as close to Glen Canyon Dam where we will all have a chance to learn how the dam was built, why, and other stories and facts about the area. This tour on average is 4 hours in duration.
​
Are there age limits for your tours?
We do have an age limit on our tours for safety reasons. Although our tours are extremely family friendly and easy to do. The lake at times has inclement weather that safely needs able body persons to help navigate and paddle through it. Our age restriction is that no persons under the age of 5 are permitted on the guided tours.
Can I Paddleboard or kayak on the tours?
NO, However, no experience is needed to kayak on any of our tours! The Kayaks and route on all our tours are made for any skill kayak paddler, even someone who has never paddled before. You'll be given a short orientation and paddling instruction before the tour and that will be more than enough information to teach you everything you need to know to have a great time on the tour.
Do you have to be in good shape to go on the tours?
Not necessarily, if you can do everyday activities with ease such as climbing stairs, then you should be able to find our hiking and paddling trips within your capabilities. Somebody with an average level of fitness should be able to paddle a boat at 2 miles per hour in semi-calm conditions, not including rest breaks.
How difficult are the hikes on our tours?
Our hikes vary in difficulty from not difficult at all to beginner hikers. The Antelope Canyon Slot Canyon hike is fit for anyone who doesn't have trouble performing everyday activities such as climbing a flight of stairs or mowing a small yard. There are no large steps or grades in this part of Antelope Canyon; it is a flat and relatively even ground to walk on.
​
Is paddling on the tours difficult?
Absolutely not. Even a new paddler with no experience could easily keep up with our tours. Fitness level needed here is very low, occasionally during weather conditions like wind, more paddling effort is needed during the tour but typically even then its not a problem for all level of paddlers.
What should you bring?
Make sure you bring lots and lots of drinking water. We recommend drinking 4-8 liters per day.. You should also bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, flip flops or sandals, waterproof phone case that's attachable, a swimsuit and of course all the fun that you have!!
Is the water at Lake Powell safe?
Absolutely! There are no dangerous fish, animals or bacteria that live in the lake. As far as the water and animal life in the lake you are perfectly safe and have nothing to worry about. The only things you should watch out for are sharp rocks and the quagga and zebra mussels shells can be sharp.
Is there a current in Lake Powell?
Even though Lake Powell was created by the creation of the Glen Canyon Dam on the Colorado River, it has absolutely no current whatsoever.
Do I have to pay to get into the National Park?
Yes, there is a $30 fee to enter Lake Powell, this fee is charged because Lake Powell is located in a national park, the Glen Canyon National Park. This fee will get you a week-long pass into the lake.
However, if you have a National Park pass then you will not have to pay to get into Lake Powell, just show them your card and you’ll be on your way.
Can I camp at Lake Powell? If so, where?
On the Colorado River, there are designated campsites only reachable by boat. There is a car accessible campground at Lees Ferry. On Lake Powell, you can pretty much camp wherever you can find a spot. There are no designated campsites. Big beaches are popular, but we recommend the smaller pullouts along the rocks. There is car accessible camping available at Lone Rock Beach for $10 per vehicle per night - exercise caution if you do not have 4 wheel drive. There is a full service campground at Wahweap, which is near the lake, and another within the town of Page, just down the hill from our office.
Can I hire a boat to take me up lake?
There are two licensed companies on Lake Powell that provide water shuttles: Aramark Executive Services (928-645-1037, out of Wahweap Marina) and Antelope Point Marina (928-645-5900). Expect to pay between $150-$200 per hour for your group. The maximum group size per water taxi is 6, but it may be less depending on the size of the water taxi available. The water taxis charge for the roundtrip time of each shuttle run.
Approximate roundtrip times to various points on the lake:
Labyrinth Canyon - 1 hour
Face or West Canyon - 2 hours
Cathedral Canyon - 3 hours
Rainbow Bridge (Oak Canyon) - 4 hours
Escalante Arm - 6 hours
When the Castle Rock Cut is closed, add 30 minutes to all the above times if you are using Aramark Executive Services.
When should you come to visit Lake Powell?
The season is very long here and each time of year has specific advantages.
Spring (March-Early June) offers comfortable temperatures, great fishing, and less boat traffic. Spring is also the best season for hiking because the lake level is lower and shore access at the back of the canyons is generally easier. The chance of rain is low. Weather fronts with strong winds are most common in the spring, so be sure to get an updated weather forecast before heading out and have a contingency plan if strong winds persist. Cold water temperatures make a capsize very dangerous. A wet suit is strongly recommended from March to mid-May and may be required by office staff when difficult conditions are forecast and/or a lack of experience and skills is present.
Summer (Mid June-August) offers great swimming and warm temperatures - perfect for day trips but a bit more challenging for overnight tours. Getting an early start is very important since the mid-day heat and sun can make paddling very tiring. Drink lots of water. While still an uncommon event, be prepared for heavy but generally short-lived rains, usually in the afternoon. If there is a secret season it's weekdays in late August just before Labor Day - temperatures are usually reasonable and there is a drop in boat traffic until the holiday weekend.
Autumn (Sept-early November) is generally considered the best season for longer tours since the weather is warm but not hot and the water still relatively comfortable. September is still "monsoon" season, with short but intense rains possible. Weekdays see much less motorboat traffic than the weekends.
Winter (Mid November - February) is only recommended for those with plenty of cold weather paddling experience and are proficient at cold water rescues. Rescue skills are mandatory. With the right weather window, day trips can be very enjoyable. Even though the motor boat traffic is light, overnight trips are not recommended since the days are short and nights are long.
Average Low/High______ Temperature by Month F (C) _____________Mid-Month Sunrise / Sunset (AZT)
Jan: 20-43 (-7-6) lake water 47 (8) Colorado River water 46 (8) 7:39am / 5:32pm
Feb: 28-53 (-2-12) lake water 46 (8) Colorado River water 46 (8) 7:15am / 6:05pm
Mar: 33-61(0-16) lake water 52 (11) Colorado River water 46 (8) 6:37am / 6:33pm
Apr: 39-69 (4-21) lake water 54 (12) Colorado River water 46 (8) 5:52am / 7:00pm
May: 49-83 (9-28) lake water 62 (16) Colorado River water 46 (8) 5:18am / 7:26pm
June: 57-92(14-33) lake water 70 (21) Colorado River water 46 (8) 5:06am / 7:47pm
July: 66-99 (19-37) lake water 76 (24) Colorado River water 46 (8) 5:18am / 7:45pm
Aug: 65-95 (19-35) lake water 80 (27) Colorado River water 46 (8) 5:43am / 7:11pm
Sept: 54-86 (12-30) lake water 76 (24) Colorado River water 46 (8) 6:08am / 6:34pm
Oct: 44-73 (7-23) lake water 69 (21) Colorado River water 46 (8) 6:33am / 5:50pm
Nov: 33-58 (0-14) lake water 62 (16) Colorado River water 46 (8) 7:04am / 5:17pm
Dec: 22-44 (-7-6) lake water 53 (12) Colorado River water 46 (8) 7:32am / 5:10pm
Is Paddleboarding on Lake Powell hard?
Not very difficult! Most people can figure out the basic paddling strokes within a few minutes, but over time you will become much more efficient. Standup Paddleboards (SUP) take a little time to master, but most people should be able to learn the basics of SUP in an hour or so. Wind makes all the difference, so try to go on a calm morning when you are learning.
Is Kayaking on Lake Powell hard?
Not very difficult! Most people can figure out the basic paddling strokes within a few minutes, but over time you will become much more efficient. Skills like how to self rescue or an assisted rescue with sit on top kayaks are the best type of kayak for beginners because they are more stable and MUCH easier to re-enter from the water. Wind makes all the difference, so try to go on a calm morning when you are learning.
Can I Paddleboard or Kayak to Horseshoe Bend?
No. The current is swift - even at times at low flow it would be slow and tiring to try to paddle upstream. Lees Ferry is the only access point for watercraft. The only way to kayak Horseshoe Bend or to Paddleboard Horseshoe Bend is to take a backhaul from Lees Ferry up the Colorado river to be dropped off to float down.
How do I schedule a backhaul trip from Lees Ferry?
You can schedule a trip at one of the back haul companies located by Lees Ferry. One of our partners is Marble Canyon Outfitters (928-645-2781). Be sure to call and book your backhaul with as much notice as possible. They book up rather quickly and their rates may vary.
What are the most important dangers I should be aware of?
A trip to Lake Powell and the Colorado River should be a safe one if you choose a trip within your experience and skill level and take sensible precautions. Cold water in the spring and lightning in the summer are the most serious dangers. It is very important that you know how to re-enter a capsized kayak and pump out the water if you are taking a touring kayak out, especially in the spring. We provide PFDs (lifejackets) with every rental and tour. Pay attention for changes in the weather that indicate strong winds or an approaching storm. In the summer and early fall, keep your hiking excursions into narrow slot canyons brief, especially in the afternoon. Flash floods are a very real possibility and it is difficult to monitor incoming weather when inside the canyons. Be careful when exploring on land since the rock is very soft and slippery and steep drops are commonplace. Scout all jumping locations carefully and limit the height to 15'. Never dive and monitor teenagers in particular. Not as scary sounding but a far more likely danger is dehydration and sunburn. Drink lots of water, cover up, and use sunscreen.
Are there dangerous animals I should be aware of?
In the water no absolutely not. However if you’re planning on hiking around at all you should be aware that there are rattlesnake and bark scorpions in the area. Spring and late summer are the worst times for the local rattlesnakes. The baby snakes hatch in the spring and are basically blind at first. This is dangerous because the bab snakes cannot regulate their venom output, so every bite is the worst bite. The late summer the rattlesnakes migrate so they are more likely on the move and encounterable.
How do I stay safe during cold water months?
Immersion in cold water, which is most likely from March through mid May, is the greatest danger on Lake Powell for paddlers. The following steps will help keep you safe. Remember, your personal safety is your responsibility.
1) Choose the right boat - Sit on top kayaks are the easiest boats to re-enter should you capsize. Doubles are recommended and come with scupper stoppers to keep you fairly dry in calm conditions.
2) Check conditions - Windy conditions will make your paddle much more difficult and dangerous. If wind is expected to increase in the afternoon, get an early start.
3) Match your trip with your skills and physical ability - If you lack the strength to easily re-enter a kayak, only go in warm water months. If you are a total beginner with good physical ability, take a guided tour. If you have intermediate skills, know your route and avoid long open water crossings or areas where cliff's make getting to shore impossible. Overnight tours in cold water conditions are for those with experience and self rescue training.
4) Wear a wetsuit - Anytime the combined water and air temperature is under 120 F, they are recommended. They will give you more time for self rescue in the event of a capsize.
5) When in doubt, stay onshore - If the strong winds come up while you are on the water, seek the nearest shore. Wait for the winds to subside. If you feel nervous about conditions, let us know.
What is our cancellation policy?
We reserve the right to cancel any tour or rental prior to departure for reasons at our discretion.
New Weather Cancellation Policy:
All cancellations for weather conditions will be provided the option of a “Rain Check” that of which can be redeemed on a tour at anytime in the future with no expiration date as long as the value of the redeemed tour is equal to or less than the “rain check” value. Or the customer may receive a direct refund.
​
Do we accept tips? (Gratuity)
Our guides and staff work extremely hard and love what they do. And we appreciate your choice to choose us on your adventure to Lake Powell and the choice of tipping or the amount of gratuity to provide or not to provide is not required and completely voluntary.
It is typically suggested that a tip of 10-15% of your individual or group ticket price be a tip or gratuity for your guide. If you are on a trip with multiple guides then don't worry about tipping each guide. Tips (gratuity) is split evenly between guides that are on the same trip. Even though the choice to tip is completely up to the individual, our guides rely on tips (gratuity) as part of their income.