Lake Powell is one of the most scenic lakes in America; two million people visit here each year. Many rent Lake Powell houseboats from Forever Houseboats, one of the more popular ways to enjoy the area.
You’ve probably already done some research about Lake Powell, but there are some lesser-known aspects of the area you may not have uncovered. To help you out, here are five cool things about Lake Powell that will add to your vacation experience:
Dinosaur Tracks
Dinosaur tracks are visible at Lake Powell; near Rainbow Bridge you can see a tridactyl theropod track. The next time you sail by the sandstone cliffs, dock off at the canyon entrance and walk to Rainbow Bridge to see these amazing tracks for yourself. Additionally, at the Carl Hayden Visitor Center, there are the remains of a therizinosaur; part bird and part sloth, they once lived in the area. Visit the Center on your way out to Lake Powell, and discover what other hidden treasures Glen Canyon has to offer.
Rock Formations
The stunning rock formations overlooking Lake Powell can’t be missed, but how much do you know about them? Could you tell someone what a Navajo berry is or desert varnish? Find the answers to these geological mind-benders with these geology field notes provided by the National Park Service and be the smartest one on your houseboat.
A Giant Film Set
Many historic films have been shot at Lake Powell; the region’s unique terrain makes it ideal for science fiction and Biblical films. For example, “John Carter” was filmed here in 2012, and the original version of “Planet of the Apes” was filmed here, as well. “The Greatest Story Ever Told” with Charlton Heston was also shot at Lake Powell; this movie's location for Mount Sinai was none other than Castle Rock.
Native American Sites
Lake Powell is home to petroglyphs (carvings) and pictographs (paintings) dating back to the time of the Anasazi or Ancient Puebloans. The name Anasazi in Navajo means “Ancient Ones” and they lived in the area between 1200 B.C and 1300 A.D. The drawings they left on the stone walls, as well as pit houses and rock-walled granaries are well-kept due to the dry climate. Defiance House near Forgotten Canyon is one of the best preserved of their cliff dwellings. Next to it is a pictograph of three warriors waving clubs and shields.
Glen Canyon Dam
Glen Canyon Dam can’t be missed. Its construction is what started Lake Powell. But there are some cool facts about it you probably didn’t know. For instance, the first explosion that began construction was set off by none other than President Dwight D. Eisenhower; he pressed a button on his desk in the Oval Office on October 1, 1956, it triggered the first blast. Almost exactly 10 years later, on September 22, 1966, Lady Bird Johnson christened the completed dam. It took 17 years for Lake Powell to fill completely.
Of course, there is so much more about Lake Powell to discover. As you sail along the shores of Lake Powell in your Forever Houseboat, you can discover the modern and prehistoric history of the area, and visit some of the cool sites that others might be missing. Come see us at Antelope Point, we’ll be happy to get you on your way.
