Rainbow Bridge National Monument

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A large sandstone arch - a natural bridge.
Stand here and take in the majesty of Rainbow Bridge - the largest natural bridge in the National Park Service.
A view of Rainbow Bridge from the air.
Seen from the air, Rainbow Bridge is a graceful curve over the dry stream bed.
A large crowd faces away from the camera at the scenery.
In the desert heat after the rough walk up to Rainbow Bridge from the docks, you take shade where you can get it.
Boats and personal watercraft sidle up to docks.
The only way to access Rainbow Bridge is by a two-day hike across the Navajo Nation, or a fifty-mile boat trip up Lake Powell.
An elderly Native American man sits in a lawn chair under Rainbow Bridge
In 1974, Ute Mountain Ute Jim Mike, one of the guides who led the original expedition to Rainbow Bridge, returned to see how he had led the way for many more visitors.
Park Ranger standing in front of perfectly curved sandstone arch
During the summer season, Park Rangers will be at the observation areas to answer your questions.
Photos: National Park Service

About Rainbow Bridge National Monument

Rainbow Bridge is one of the world's largest known natural bridges. The span has undoubtedly inspired people throughout time--from the neighboring Native American tribes who consider Rainbow Bridge sacred, to the thousands of visitors from around the world who visit it each year. Please visit Rainbow Bridge in a spirit that honors and respects the cultures to whom it is sacred.

Quick Facts

State Utah
Designation National Monument
State Code UT
Weather Summers are extremely hot with little, if any, shade. Winters are moderately cold with night time lows often below freezing. Spring weather is highly variable with extended periods of strong…

Location & Map

Rainbow Bridge National Monument is located in Utah.

Operating Hours

Rainbow Bridge National Monument is open every day of the year, from sunrise to sunset. On rare occasions, the park may be closed for visitor safety while significant trail and/or dock repairs are taking place. Contact the park for up-to-date information on any closures in effect. Overnight camping or docking your boat is prohibited.

Wednesday Sunrise to Sunset
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Activities

Boating Boat Tour Guided Tours Boat Tour Hiking Junior Ranger Program

Getting There

Rainbow Bridge National Monument is located between Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and the Navajo Nation. *There are no roads to or near the monument.* Rainbow Bridge can be reached by boat on Lake Powell or by hiking one of two trails around Navajo Mountain on the Navajo Nation, by permit only. Boat tours are available. The entrance to Forbidding Canyon is located at buoy 49 on Lake Powell. Boaters should be familiar with the Aids to Navigation (buoy) system and use a navigational map.

View Official Directions

Contact & Address

Address c/o Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Page, AZ, 86040
Phone 9286086200
Email glca_information@nps.gov

Topics & Themes

Explorers and Expeditions Native American Heritage Animals Canyons and Canyonlands Geology Night Sky Rock Landscapes and Features Unique Species

Things To Do

From Your Boat To The Bridge

From Your Boat To The Bridge

There is one designated trail within the boundaries of Rainbow Bridge National Monument. It runs the length of the monument,…

This is the hike from the docks to and around Rainbow Bridge. There is no overnight camping at Rainbow Bridge,…

Contemplate Your Place in the Landscape At The Big Map

Contemplate Your Place in the Landscape At The Big Map

The Glen Canyon and Surrounding Area Relief Map sits in a place of honor at the Powell Museum & Archives…

Find your place in the landscape. Contemplate your place in the world. It's easy to get lost in this desert…

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