Horseshoe Bend

An obscure sign in the middle of nowhere on Route 89 in Page, AZ beckons tourists to the Horseshoe Bend overlook parking lot.

A small board at the parking lot (which perfectly echoes my philosophy on nature hikes) signals the start of the 3/4th mile hike through the desert sands to the overlook:

Take nothing but pictures
Kill nothing but time
Leave nothing but footprints

The hike itself is easy, but parts of the hike will be through fine sand, and requires exertion. Do get a bottle of water, especially during summer.

The payoff is an overlook with a spectacular view of the 360 degree horseshoe shaped meander of the Colorado river (hence the name).

The sheer cliff edges have no railings, and if you are with kids, do be cautious. There have been fatalities at this place due to carelessness.