Officials ask Glen Canyon recreation area visitors to expect congestion, follow these guidelines

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is one of many scenic areas Utahans like to recreate in, Lake Powell, Utah, unspecified date | Photo courtesy of National Park Service, St. George News

ST. GEORGE — As temperatures continue to climb and schools let out for summer, the season for swimsuits, skiing and sunburns is here. With that, a wide variety of recreational opportunities await visitors to Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.

Lake Powell in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, date not specified | Photo courtesy of the National Park Service, St. George News

Glen Canyon offers many land- and water-based activities, which are available for adventurers of all skill levels. Those seeking easy thrills will enjoy unmatched front country scenery at the iconic Horseshoe Bend Overlook. Backcountry explorers can enjoy boundless opportunities for wilderness escapades. But in order to ensure the best experience for all visitors, the National Park Service issued a press release that provides guidance for recreational activities.

Lake Powell is a world-class water sports destination, with fluctuating water levels offering a new experience on every trip.

Superintendent William Shott said in the press release:

Millions of visitors travel to enjoy our iconic natural, cultural and historic landscapes and love the service they receive while recreating here. I want to recognize our National Park Service employees; all are dedicated public servants who care for these public lands and the people that visit them. I also want to express my gratitude to our many partners, concessioners, commercial use operators, and local communities who welcome visitors and make this a special place to live and explore. We could not do it without them.

Lake Powell’s water levels change throughout the year and are determined by a wide range of factors. Information is available 24/7 about water levels, marina operations and water-based visitor services at this link.

Colorado River in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, date not specified | Photo courtesy of the National Park Service, St. George News

Visitors should expect congestion and exercise caution due to a higher concentration of boaters in all visitor use areas. Approach the shore with caution and watch for shallows and submerged debris. Always wear a life jacket.

Life-threatening dangers to avoid include swimming at marinas, flash floods, cliff jumping and carbon monoxide emitted by generators or engines that are running.

Invasive, exotic quagga mussels have been confirmed both above and below the Glen Canyon Dam. All watercraft operators must clean, drain, and dry their vessels (including paddle craft) and all equipment prior to launching in any other body of water. More information is available at this link.

Prior to visiting, visitors are encouraged to be aware of current park alerts available at this link. More safety information is available at this link. For boating safety visit this link.

Have questions about Glen Canyon’s visitor centers, camping, boating, guided services, etc.? Find the information here to plan your visit.

Those looking for specific services and amenities in all areas of the park will find the answers to their questions here at this link.

Plan like a park ranger by following these useful tips before your adventure begins.

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area’s 1.25-million-acres stretch from Lees Ferry in Arizona to the Orange Cliffs of southern Utah, encompassing scenic vistas, geologic wonders, proposed wilderness areas and a vast panorama of human history. The park wishes everyone a safe and enjoyable visit.

Copyright St. George News, SaintGeorgeUtah.com LLC, 2022, all rights reserved.

Free News Delivery by Email

Would you like to have the day's news stories delivered right to your inbox every evening? Enter your email below to start!