Horseshoe Bend — Glen Canyon NRA
Arizona · National Recreation Area · Southwest Region
Horseshoe Bend is the Colorado River making a perfect 270-degree meander around a sandstone monolith, viewed from a cliff 1,100 feet above. Navajo sandstone in cream and rust and orange, the river deep blue-green below, the whole thing framed against a sky that is always blazing blue or storm-purple. The half-mile hike is easy. It is one of the accessible overlooks on the Colorado Plateau, and for a small group wanting a canyon ceremony without a permit, it is one of the few genuine options.
- Best season
- March–May, October–November
- Permit required
- No
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Max group size
- 25 people
Permit Information
Groups of 5 or fewer people (including photographer): no permit needed for personal elopements at Horseshoe Bend. Groups of 6+ or any decorations/props: SUP required, $100 processing fee + $200 cost recovery = $300 total. Apply 45 business days in advance via GLCA_SUP@NPS.GOV. Up to 25 guests with a permit. $30 vehicle entry fee (America the Beautiful pass accepted). Well-documented by elopement photographers.
Ceremony Spots at Horseshoe Bend — Glen Canyon NRA
- Horseshoe Bend Main Overlook — The iconic 1,100-foot overlook above the Colorado River's perfect horseshoe meander
- Horseshoe Bend Rim Walk (North) — Quieter ceremony along the canyon rim north of the main overlook with different river perspectives
View full elopement guide for Horseshoe Bend — Glen Canyon NRA