Interesting Horseshoe Bend Facts: Colorado River Travel Tips
The Bend in the Colorado River known as the Colorado River Horseshoe Bend is breathtaking. Its unique geological formation creates a 90-degree turn that has puzzled man since we first laid eyes upon it.
But if you decide to head out to see this amazing natural formation there are a few tips you should keep in mind before leaving. Learn more about the horseshoe bend facts.
The Horseshoe Bend is about 4,200 feet (1,280 meters) wide. The bend is about 1,000 feet (305 meters) deep.
The Horseshoe Bend is made up of three rock layers: the bottom is a layer of Kaibab Limestone, the middle is a layer of Coconino Sandstone, and the top is a layer of Hermit Shale.
The Colorado River flows through the Horseshoe Bend from east to west. The colorado bend is created by a meander in the river. The river bends back on itself creating the characteristic horseshoe shape.
The water in the Colorado River below is emerald green in summer and is cool enough to enjoy a refreshing swim if you can make it down to the bottom.
This location is known as the suicide capital of Arizona because people often go here to jump into a ‘beautiful death’.
Dogs are not allowed in the trail
The hike and travel to this location are well worth the effort. Most tourists do not even know about this beautiful location and instead gather around more well-known locations throughout the Grand Canyon National Park.
On most days you can drive to the parking lot and easily find a spot to park your vehicle. A half-mile hike down the trail leads you directly to the bend and as the trail gives way to nothingness below you will understand why Horseshoe Bend is a must-see place.
The bend is located in Arizona and is most frequently visited during the hot summer months of May-August. If you choose to visit then make sure you are prepared for the extreme heat and bring plenty of bottled water with you.
Wear the right shoes
The terrain around the bend is rocky and hard to navigate if you are wearing improper footwear. Opt for a solid pair of hiking boots that will keep your feet moving forward as you move around to the best site seeing locations on the river.
If you’re looking to snap some pictures, the best time of day is early morning or late evening. During the middle of the day, the sun will be right in your face and it will be difficult to get a good shot. However, if you go during sunrise or sunset you’ll get beautiful golden light shining on the bend.
There can never really be a better time to visit Horseshoe Bend than if your preference is cooler; Autumn is also ideal. Summertime seems like a more suitable alternative to the summer months; however, be prepared that these are peak tourism seasons.
Horseshoe Bend is located in Arizona, about 10 miles (16 kilometers) downstream of the Glen Canyon Dam and Lake Powell.
It is located outside of the Glen Canyon National Recreation area. If you’re visiting the Grand Canyon National Park, it’s well worth the trip to see the Horseshoe Bend as well.
The best way to get there is to drive to Lees Ferry, which is the official launch point for river trips through the Grand Canyon National Park. This is a 10-mile (16 kilometers) shuttle ride to the bend. Tours are also available, but they can be quite expensive.
If you’re not visiting the Grand Canyon, the best way to see the Bend is by driving on your own. Then park at Horseshoe Bend trailhead. There are several other parking areas near the lookout points. You can easily walk to Horseshoe and explore its wonders.
The Horseshoe Bend overlook is a great spot to take in the natural beauty of the Bend.
There are several lookout points where you can get a good view of the bend, and it’s a great place to take photos. The overlook is also a good spot to watch the river flow by.
If you’re looking for a more adventurous experience, you can hike at the Horseshoe Bend trail. This is a strenuous hike and should only be attempted by experienced hikers. It’s also important to be aware of the dangers of flash floods.
The river can rise very quickly during heavy rains, and the trail can become impassable.
If you’re planning on visiting Horseshoe Bend, there are a few different options for where to stay. The closest town to the bend is Marble Canyon, which is about 10 miles (16 kilometers) away.
There are a few different motels and campgrounds in Marble Canyon, and it’s also a great place to stock up on supplies before you visit the Horseshoe Bend.
If you’re looking for a more scenic place to stay, there are also many camping and lodging options near the Glen Canyon Dam. This is about a 30-minute drive from the Bend.
Whether you choose to visit in the summer or fall, be sure to add Horseshoe Bend to your list of must-see destinations in Colorado!
There is no designated parking area for Horseshoe Bend, so visitors can park anywhere along the side of the road.
However, it’s important to be aware that this is a narrow road and there is limited parking available. It’s best to arrive early in the morning or late in the evening to find a spot.
Be aware that National Park Service passes do not apply in Horseshoe Bend. This is because it is not located in a national park.
At Horseshoe Bend, the National Park Service operates a visitor center located at Coconino Sandstone, and at the top of the layer is Hermit Shale.
Horseshoe Bend is a popular tourist destination in Colorado, due to its natural beauty and close proximity to the Glen Canyon Dam and Lake Powell. This makes it a great place to visit and witness the marvelous wonders of nature.
The Bend was formed over the course of millions of years as the Colorado River carved its way through the rock. The Horseshoe Bend is a product of erosion, which has created this spectacular sight.
The water comes from the Colorado River.
The river was formed about 10 million years ago when the Rocky Mountains started to rise. The river flows more than 1,450 miles from its headwaters in the Colorado Rockies down to the Gulf of California.
Along the way, it passes through some of America’s most breathtaking scenery, including the Grand Canyon.
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