As I watched the sun go down over the horizon, I couldn't help but feel like this place is magical. Horseshoe Bend is located in Northern Arizona inside of Navajo Nation. This incredible spot got its name because of the horseshoe shape the Colorado River makes as it snakes around the massive rock formation.
Horseshoe Bend was made over the course of millions of years as water rushed through the canyon. The unique horseshoe shape the river makes has attracted tourists for years. Photographers also flock to this spot to get amazing sunset photos!
The hike to the main vantage point is through sand, so if you struggle to walk on uneven ground, the hike may be a bit challenging. Aside from that, it's a gorgeous 1.5 mile round-trip hike all the way down to the overlook, which towers roughly 1,000 feet above the ground, offering an impressive view of Horseshoe Bend. Just be sure to enjoy at a safe distance! Many people die here trying to get the perfect picture. I saw lots of people dangling their feet over the edge. Don't tempt fate!
There are so many ways to explore Horseshoe Bend. Take a boat tour or raft down the emerald-colored river during the warmer months for a cool way to enjoy the scenic views. You can also pay to fly over Horseshoe Bend in a helicopter for an unforgettable experience. If you want to do some more hiking, you can take a short trail to get to various viewpoints by foot as well.
If you're looking for more fun things to do in the area, it's worth taking some extra time to drive to the Grand Canyon or schedule a tour at Antelope Canyon. You won't be sorry exploring any of the beautiful destinations Navajo Nation has to offer. Just remember to respect the land and those who live on it while you're there. Thanks for checking out my blog!
Horseshoe bend looks amazing!