Horseshoe Bend, the horseshoe canyon

Around 200 million years ago, an enormous sea of sand dunes, similar to the Sahara desert, covered the landscape from Arizona to Wyoming. The sand slowly solidified into a layer of sandstone. Other sedimentary layers of sandstone, mud, calcite and limestone built up over time.

Over millions of years, the canyon began to take shape through the constant erosion of relentless winds, flash floods and extreme heat and cold. Today, the sandstone is once again exposed, and its top layer is being transformed into sand. The hill is a gigantic sand dune that has seen dinosaurs walk on it. Indeed, there is a small but hard-to-find dinosaur track about 50 metres from the end of the trail.

As you get closer to Horseshoe Bend Overlook, you'll notice that some of the rock formations have dark, sandy areas.

After more than 20 million years of geological history, the majestic results of erosion have given birth to Horseshoe Bend! In the process of erosion, the sandstone acted as a natural barrier, forcing the water to make a sharp bend in the Colorado River with softer rocks.

Horseshoe Bend is where the Colorado River makes a giant horseshoe bend in the canyon. It's a picturesque area with sweeping panoramic views of the Grand Canyon - one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Its emerald green water quickly makes an impression.

Horseshoe Bend is a sandy trail that slopes gently upwards. This sand becomes very hot during the summer. For comfort, it's best to wear closed-toe trekking shoes. From Horseshoe Bend viewpoint, there is a fenced-in area for safety, as there is a steep descent to the Colorado River. The hike is accessible to all and lasts around 1? hours.

You can opt for a helicopter tour to see this natural wonder from a whole new angle. This tour departs from the Lake Powell heliport, so as well as getting a bird's-eye view of Horseshoe Bend, you'll also be flying over Lake Powell. This tour of Horseshoe Bend takes around 30 to 40 minutes and must be booked in advance.

This "horseshoe" can be explored by kayak, approaching the beautiful, imposing walls and cliffs. There are many kayak rental companies, including Kayak the Colorado, Horseshoe Bend Kayak Rentals and Kayak Horseshoe Bend.

Rafting is another way to see it. From Wilderness River Adventures, you'll pass Glen Canyon Dam, Petroglyph Beach and Vermilion Cliffs.

Lake Powell is only about 10 minutes from Horseshoes Bend. Lake Powell is a man-made lake with beautiful sandstone walls. It's the perfect place to relax and cool off, especially in the heat of summer. Here you can kayak, swim and even paddleboard.

⭐ Lake Powell Resort: This Aramark-managed resort within the recreation area is just steps from Wahweap Marina and is popular with visitors looking to enjoy the lake.

⭐ Hyatt Place Page/Lake Powell : One of the area's most popular accommodations, this hotel earns high marks from visitors for its outstanding lake views as well as exceptionally clean rooms and hot breakfast. It also has accessible rooms and spaces throughout the hotel, and is pet-friendly.