Glen Canyon’s Scenic Dam Cruise

If you’re contemplating a visit to Page, Arizona, and want a relaxing yet fascinating way to see some of the area’s most iconic sights, then the Glen Canyon’s Scenic Dam Cruise might just be what you need. This roughly 90-minute boat ride offers a unique perspective of Glen Canyon Dam, a marvel of engineering, paired with stunning natural scenery along Wahweap Bay. From the comfort of a small, intimate group, you’ll enjoy insights from knowledgeable crew members, along with views that are difficult to match from land.

What makes this tour stand out are two things we truly appreciate: the opportunity to see Glen Canyon Dam from the water, giving a sense of scale and grandeur that photos can’t quite capture, and the chance to enjoy complimentary refreshments like water, coffee, and lemonade, which keep you comfortable as you soak in the surroundings. On the flip side, a consideration is the additional government fee of $30 per person, which brings the total cost to over $140 for some travelers, so budget-conscious visitors should plan accordingly. This tour is ideal for those who love scenic views and want a relaxed, informative experience without the hassle of hiking or strenuous activities.

Key Points

• Scenic views of Glen Canyon Dam from the water provide a perspective impossible to achieve on land.
• Short, 1.5-hour cruise makes it a manageable outing for most schedules.
• Small group size (maximum 20 travelers) ensures personalized attention.
• Complimentary drinks add a nice touch of comfort.
• Includes a stop at Antelope Canyon, letting you view approximately 4 miles of canyon walls.
• Additional government fees of $30 apply, which should be factored into your budget.

An Authentic Look at the Glen Canyon Scenic Dam Cruise

This tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty and engineering marvels, making it a compelling choice for travelers interested in both science and scenery. Starting at the Lake Powell Resort, the cruise begins with a leisurely departure onto Wahweap Bay, where the calming waters set the tone for the entire experience. The highlight is definitely the view of the Glen Canyon Dam, the second-largest concrete arch dam in the U.S. This massive structure, with its sleek curves and towering presence, is brought into a new perspective when seen from the water.

What we love about viewing the dam from the boat is the scale — it’s one thing to stand on land and look up, but from the water, you really appreciate its size and the ingenuity behind its construction. One reviewer even called it “just unbelievable how much there is to see,” which resonates with how most travelers feel once they’ve gotten a close-up view of such a grand piece of infrastructure. The crew’s knowledgeable commentary adds depth, offering insights into how the dam and surrounding geology fit into the larger story of Lake Powell and Glen Canyon.

Exploring Antelope Canyon from the Water

While the tour primarily focuses on the dam, it also features a stop that offers a glimpse into Antelope Canyon, which stretches over 10 miles. During the cruise, you’ll see a section of about 4 miles of canyon walls. Although it’s not a full walk-through, the view of the canyon’s walls — with their swirling, layered sandstone and vibrant red-orange hues — is striking. For many, this visual peek is enough to ignite a desire to explore further, but it’s important to note that the main focus remains on the dam and natural formations like the towering Navajo Sandstone.

The Scenic Beauty of Navajo Sandstone Formations

One of the tour’s visual highlights is the Navajo Sandstone formations, which rise sharply from the waters with their fiery reds and burnt oranges. These geological features tell a story of millions of years of natural history and are a photographer’s dream. The contrast of the rugged rock formations against the calm water creates a picture-perfect scene that you’ll want to capture with your camera.

Comfort and Convenience

The tour’s inclusion of complimentary water, coffee, and lemonade is a thoughtful touch, especially during warmer months. The restroom onboard adds convenience, making the experience comfortable without feeling rushed. The group size being capped at 20 travelers ensures a more intimate experience, allowing for personalized commentary and a relaxed atmosphere.

A Well-Balanced Itinerary

The cruise’s itinerary is straightforward but well-chosen. After departing from Lake Powell Resort, the boat heads across Wahweap Bay, offering sweeping views of Lake Powell’s expansive waters. The dam viewing is usually the first stop, giving everyone a chance to marvel at this feat of engineering. The next segment includes a view of Antelope Canyon, offering dramatic canyon walls that change appearance as the boat moves along.

While the tour won’t take you deep into the canyon, it provides enough of a glimpse to whet your appetite for a more in-depth visit if you wish. The final leg of the journey circles back to the starting point, leaving you with a sense of satisfaction from a varied and scenic experience.

The Price and Value

At $111.77 per person, plus the $30 government fee, the total cost is around $140. This might seem steep for a 90-minute boat tour to some, but when you consider the quality of the views, the small group setting, and the insights provided, it’s easy to see the value. If you love learning about natural and man-made wonders from a relaxed vantage point, this cruise offers a good return on investment.

One traveler mentioned that “the crew was so knowledgeable on the area,” which underscores the educational value. Another pointed out how the “unbelievable” amount there is to see makes it well worth the expense for those keen on photography and scenery.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book in advance: The tour is usually booked about a week ahead, so plan early to secure your spot.
• Factor in the government fee: Remember to budget an additional $30 per person.
• Bring your camera: The scenery is stunning, and you’ll likely want to capture the colorful canyon walls and dam.
• Dress comfortably: Expect to be outside on deck, and weather can vary.
• Arrive early at Lake Powell Resort for a smooth start.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for travelers who appreciate scenery and geology, and those who want a relaxing, educational experience without strenuous activity. It’s ideal for families, small groups, or solo travelers who prefer intimate tours with personalized insights. If you’re curious about the engineering behind large dams or want a scenic boat ride that provides a fresh perspective on Lake Powell, this cruise will not disappoint.

It’s also great for those who enjoy photography, as the views of the dam, canyon walls, and Navajo sandstone formations are truly spectacular. However, if you’re seeking a full canyon hike or an in-depth exploration of Antelope Canyon itself, this tour is more of a teaser than a comprehensive canyon adventure.

Final Thoughts

The Glen Canyon’s Scenic Dam Cruise offers a visually stunning, informative, and relaxing way to experience one of the Southwest’s most impressive landscapes. With a manageable duration, small-group intimacy, and the chance to see both the engineering marvel of the dam and the natural beauty of surrounding rock formations, it strikes a good balance for many travelers.

While the additional government fee can hike the price, the value lies in the authentic views and knowledgeable commentary that make this outing memorable. If you’re in Page and have a soft spot for lakes, dams, or striking geology, this cruise could easily be one of your highlights.

FAQs

How long is the Glen Canyon Dam Scenic Cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a convenient option if you’re looking for a short but memorable outing.

Where does the tour start and end?
The activity begins at Lake Powell Resort located at 100 Lakeshore Dr, Page, AZ, and returns there at the end of the cruise.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes the boat ride, a restroom onboard, and complimentary water, coffee, and lemonade. The tour also features a stop where you can view the dam and part of Antelope Canyon.

Are there any additional fees?
Yes, a government fee of $30 per person is added to the ticket price.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. It’s ideal for those interested in scenery, geology, and a relaxed group setting.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera for photographing scenic views, dress comfortably for the weather, and arrive early to ensure a smooth start.

In all, the Glen Canyon Scenic Dam Cruise is a rewarding blend of natural beauty and human achievement. Whether you’re a geology buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking a serene boat ride on Lake Powell, this tour promises a memorable look at some of the Southwest’s most striking sights.