A two-day Colorado River kayaking trip from Lee's Ferry near Page, Arizona is one of the most spectacular paddles in the American Southwest. You're deep inside Glen Canyon, surrounded by 800-foot sandstone walls the color of burnt orange and rust. The water is flat, cold, and impossibly clear — it comes straight out of the bottom of Lake Powell. There are no rapids, no crowds, and no noise. Just the canyon, the river, and you.
While you're in the area, you'd be doing yourself a disservice to skip Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend — two of the most photographed landscapes in the country, both within 15 minutes of Lee's Ferry. Plan for them on Day 1 before getting on the water, or Day 2 after you're done paddling.
Day 1 — Arrive, Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend
Fly into Phoenix (PHX) or Las Vegas (LAS) — both are roughly 4–5 hours from Page, AZ. If flying into Vegas, the drive takes you through Zion and the Arizona Strip for a scenic introduction to canyon country. Arrive in Page by early afternoon.
- Antelope Canyon — book a guided tour in advance (required). Lower Antelope Canyon has more dramatic light beams; Upper has easier access. Tours run about 1.5 hours and cost $50–$80/person. Book through Navajo Tours or Ken's Tours.
- Horseshoe Bend — a 1.5-mile round-trip walk from the parking lot. Go at golden hour (1–2 hours before sunset) for the best light. Free to visit; $10 parking fee.
- Stay overnight in Page — Courtyard Marriott, Hyatt Place, or vacation rental.
Day 2 — On the Water at Lee's Ferry
Head to Lee's Ferry at the northern edge of Grand Canyon National Park. Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard from Canyonlands Tours or Wilderness River Adventures, both located in Page (they transport gear to the put-in). The paddle from Lee's Ferry through the lower Glen Canyon section is calm and entirely flat — ideal for beginners and intermediates alike.
- Distance: 4–15 miles depending on how far you paddle (completely customizable)
- Water temperature: 48–55°F year-round — a wetsuit is highly recommended
- Best season: March–October (water levels are stable; avoid monsoon season July–August)
- Wildlife: Great blue herons, bald eagles, bighorn sheep on the canyon walls
- Camping option: Primitive camping is allowed along the riverbank — coordinate with your rental company for overnight permits
What to Pack
- Wetsuit or drysuit (water is cold even in summer)
- Sun protection — sunscreen, hat, UV-blocking shirt (canyon sun is intense)
- Dry bags for phone, camera, and valuables
- Water and snacks (2L minimum per person per day)
- Water shoes or sandals with heel straps
- Polarized sunglasses — the reflection off the water is brutal
Extending the Trip
Page is perfectly positioned between two world-class destinations. Heading northeast takes you to the Utah National Parks loop — Zion, Bryce Canyon, and beyond. Heading south puts you at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon in under 3 hours. Many people combine this kayak trip with a 5–7 day Southwest road trip that hits multiple parks.
To view the full 2-day driving and paddling route, click "more options" on the Google Maps embed above.
