First-Time Visitor Guide to Rainbow Bridge

 

Rainbow Bridge is one of the world's largest and most perfectly round natural bridges. Its grandeur has inspired people for centuries. The bridge's remote location makes planning ahead important. This first-time visitor guide gives you the basics for a safe and enjoyable visit.

 

Need to Know

• There is no entrance fee for Rainbow Bridge National Monument.
• There are no roads to Rainbow Bridge, only water or foot access.
• At current lake levels, Rainbow Bridge docks do not reach the land.
• Keep safety in mind in this isolated area. There is no cell service at Rainbow Bridge.
• Pets are not permitted at Rainbow Bridge National Monument.

 

At Rainbow Bridge

NPS / Jack Quintero

About the Park

Tucked among the rugged, isolated canyons at the base of Navajo Mountain lies Rainbow Bridge. This geologic wonder is one of the world’s largest natural bridges, standing 290 feet (88 m) tall—almost as tall as the Statue of Liberty.

Rainbow Bridge has inspired humans for centuries. The bridge and surroundings have long been sacred to Native Americans. Today, the park consults with seven associated Tribes to preserve and protect the monument. In the late 1800s, European Americans encountered the bridge. Its grandeur and geology inspired preservation. President William Howard Taft established Rainbow Bridge National Monument in 1910.

You can experience Rainbow Bridge today with careful planning. Rainbow Bridge is only accessible by a four-hour boat trip or a 14-mile hike around Navajo Mountain. The hike requires a permit from the Navajo Nation. Rental boats and boat tours may also be available.

 

 

Late summer storms can bring rain to Rainbow Bridge

NPS

When to Visit

Rainbow Bridge is located in the high desert. Spring and fall are typically the mildest seasons for visiting, but if you prefer to come at other times of the year, here is what you should expect:

• Summers are extremely hot with little, if any, shade. Wear lightweight, light colored clothing in summer, including a hat. Temperatures can get over 110°F (43°C) in June and July.
• Winters are moderately cold with lows near 17°F (-8.3°C) in December and January. Layers of clothing are best for this time of year.
• Spring weather is highly variable with extended periods of strong winds.
• Fall is generally mild, but watch out for lingering late summer storms.
• Although precipitation is generally less than 6 inches (15 cm) annually, both heavy rains and flash flooding can occur during big storms.

How to Get Here

Rainbow Bridge National Monument is in southern Utah at the boundaries of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and the Navajo Nation. The closest town is Page, AZ. This is where most people begin their trip. There are two ways people get to Rainbow Bridge from there.

Boat and a Two-Mile Hike

Boaters can reach Rainbow Bridge via Lake Powell and a two-mile hike. Fluctuating lake levels add complexity to the trip. Boaters should review what launch ramps are open. Depending on ramp location, it can be up to a 50-mile ride to the dock near Rainbow Bridge. Rental boats or a tour may be possible from several marinas.

Once boaters reach the Rainbow Bridge dock, it is a two-mile walk to the bridge. The floating docks (with connected restrooms and walkways) do not currently access shoreline and the Rainbow Bridge Trail. Boaters can either leave their vessel at the dock and swim to shore or beach it on the shore. Practice caution with either approach.

14-Mile Backpack (One Way)

Hikers can reach Rainbow Bridge via two 14-mile hiking trails in the vicinity of Navajo Mountain. These trails cross Navajo Tribal Parks land and they require advanced backcounty permits. Be prepared and carry maps since signage is limited. Respect Tribal cultural sites you may find and practice Leave No Trace principles.

Find maps and additional directions.

Where to Stay

• Camping is not allowed in Rainbow Bridge National Monument.
• You can camp on the beaches of Lake Powell in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.
• The closest lodging is in Page, AZ or Bullfrog, UT.

Hours and Fees

 

Operating Schedule Details

 

Rainbow Bridge Entrance Fee - Free

There are no fees for visiting Rainbow Bridge National Monument.

Fees and Passes Details

 

Where to Start

Many visitors start their trip in Page, AZ. Two visitor centers in Page offer Rainbow Bridge information, Junior Ranger books, and Passport stamps:

• Carl Hayden Visitor Center at Glen Canyon Dam
• Glen Canyon Conservancy’s Flagship

Backpackers must request a backcountry permit from Navajo Tribal Parks. These permits are not issued at the visitor centers above.

 

Preparation Checklist

Rainbow Bridge National Monument is isolated and does not have cell service. Safety is your responsibility. Here are the basics for a safe and enjoyable trip.

• Trip plan: Due to the isolated location of Rainbow Bridge and lack of cell service, make a plan before you go. Give a copy to a friend or family member.
• Boat: The boat trip to Rainbow Bridge National Monument is about 4 hours one way. To make the trip, you need your vessel, a rented vessel, or a boat tour booked ahead of your visit.
• Maps: Do not use paper maps for lake navigation: they do not reflect current lake levels. For the 14-mile backpack, obtain 7.5’ USGS topographic maps. These are available at the Glen Canyon Conservancy Flagship store in Page, AZ.
• Appropriate clothes: Bring sturdy shoes and an extra pair of shoes for when yours get wet.
  • Summer: wear loose light-colored clothing and a wide brimmed hat.
  • Winter: bring warm layers.
• Water: This is a desert. Bring enough water to keep you hydrated. We recommend at least 1 gallon (4 L) per day.
• Sunscreen: If your clothes aren’t covering something, put sunscreen on it!
• Salty snacks: Keep your electrolytes stable with all the water you drink. A handful of pretzels or a granola bar goes a long way!
• Restrooms: There is a toilet on the dock. There are no toilets along the trail in Rainbow Bridge National Monument.

 

Looking out for Rainbow Bridge

NPS Photo

Help Protect The Park

While the rangers help take care of the park, we rely on visitors to be good stewards and help take care of the place for future generations.

• While visiting, leave only footprints and take only pictures. Do not take any plants, rocks, or cultural artifacts with you.
• Give the wildlife space, and don’t feed them. Don't leave any garbage or food scraps behind.
• Be considerate of others and of the fragile landscape. Stay on the trail and be conscious of your noise level. Flying uncrewed aircraft in the national parks (drones) is prohibited.
• Graffiti ruins the view and destroys natural and cutural features. Graffiti is illegal.