About 2,000 miles of shoreline, water sports galore, and a breathtaking natural bridge tucked within red rock canyons? Count us in for a lake vacation in this unexpected western gem. Lake Powell, located within Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, straddles the border between Northern Arizona and Southern Utah. It spans 1.25 million acres, making it one of the largest protected recreation areas in the U.S. You can access the from marinas in either state, which offer boat rentals and equipment — so no need to pack your kayak!
Lake Powell is a man-made reservoir created by the construction of the Glen Canyon Dam, which was built to regulate water flow along the Colorado River. Today, it is the second largest man-made reservoir in America (nearby Lake Mead is the largest). In 2023, it made national headlines as prolonged drought caused water levels to drop to historic lows. However, the lake levels went up in 2024, rising above 40% capacity for the first time in several years.
Beyond its role as a recreational hotspot, Lake Powell is a critical water and power source. Millions of people in Arizona, Utah, five other Western states, and two dozen Native American tribes rely on it for drinking water, agriculture, and hydroelectric power generation. While water levels fluctuate, Lake Powell remains an incredible destination, offering visitors the chance to explore newly uncovered areas alongside its classic attractions.
Planning your lake vacation
To help you plan your trip, it’s a good idea to think about what kinds of activities you want to do — Lake Powell offers the opportunity to try everything if you’d like. The best time to visit Lake Powell for water sports is April through June and September through October, according to LakePowell.com. But with water to dip into, even a hot summer day at the lake will be a good one. Water temperatures range from the high 40s in winter to the low 80s in the summer. One reason you might avoid the summer months is because they’re crowded as residents try to get a break from the relentless heat in both Arizona and Utah. For fewer crowds, consider visiting in the fall or winter, when the focus around Lake Powell shifts to fishing and hiking. Cooler temperatures make for peaceful days on the trails, and you’ll have more of the lake to yourself. No matter the time of year, sunscreen and hydration are essential…