Sunny skies, cool water, and the smell of sunscreen. For many, this is the epitome of summer at Lake Powell. Looking to add a little adventure to your next visit? Take a peek at one of the most well-known natural features in the area: Rainbow Bridge. Discover how it came about, who discovered it, and how you can access it today.
Rainbow Bridge – What is it?
As the tallest natural bridge in the world, Rainbow Bridge stands at 290 feet above Bridge Creek and spans 275 feet across. Its breathtaking resemblance of a rainbow “frozen into stone” attracts nearly 85,000 people every single year.
Rainbow Bridge was formed by water flowing from the Navajo Mountain towards the Colorado River. The water gradually eroded the sandstone giving it its unique shape. Among the first to witness this remarkable structure were the Navajo Indians, who consider the land to be a place of spirits, sacred offerings, and ceremonies.
How Can you Access the Bridge?
Until the formation of Lake Powell, the bridge was almost inaccessible by land or water. Today, Lake Powell boaters can pull up to shore and reach the bridge by a short hike. If you’re interested in paying the Rainbow Bridge a visit on your next houseboating trip, it’s only a 2 hour cruise from Antelope Point Marina. Before your next outing, simply ask the friendly staff at Forever Houseboats to give you directions.
If you’re planning a hike that does not include a lake trip, the Rainbow Bridge trailhead may be reached via unpaved roads on the Navajo Indian Reservations south of Lake Powell. There are two common trails that lead up to the bridge; a 14-mile trail from the Navajo Mountain Trading Post, or a 13-mile trail from the abandoned Rainbow Lodge. Permits, however, are required to hike these trails.
Visit Rainbow Bridge this summer with your whole family by renting a houseboat on Lake Powell. Call 1-800-255-5561 or reserve online today!
