Cash ONLY accepted at Horseshoe Bend, 4th of July weekend

Question

If you're visiting Page, AZ, over 4th of July weekend, please be aware that there is a $10/vehicle parking fee collected upon entry to the Horseshoe Bend Overlook ($35 for light commercial vehicles). In order to minimize wait times over busy holiday periods, the booth attendants will only accept cash. The America the Beautiful National Park Pass does not work for Horseshoe Bend as it is managed as a City Park, and not the National Park Service. Be sure to have sufficient cash on hand to take care of this, as well as to tip tour guides, restaurant servers, hotel staff, and other personnel who will no doubt be working very hard to help you have a great weekend!

Remember that the trail to the Horseshoe Bend Overlook is 1.5 miles round trip with moderate elevation gain. Shade is virtually non-existent on the trail. Please bring plenty of water, sun protection, and do not leave children or pets unattended in your vehicle. Protective booties are recommended for pets during peak summer heat. Horseshoe Bend Overlook is open from sunrise to sunset, so consider visiting just after sunrise to enjoy cooler temperatures and smaller crowds.

Also: a guided tour is required to visit the Antelope Canyons and you MUST reserve your seats in advance. If Upper and/or Lower are sold out on your desired date/time, look to alternate slot canyons such as Antelope Canyon X, Secret Antelope Canyon, Waterholes Canyon, Mystical Antelope Canyon, Ligai Si'Anii, Wind Pebble Canyon, etc. They are just as beautiful and may still have availability! https://antelopecanyon.az/antelope-canyon-alternative-tours/

Answer

If you are planning to visit Page, Arizona over the 4th of July weekend, there are a few key points to keep in mind to ensure a smooth experience at Horseshoe Bend and nearby attractions.

First, the Horseshoe Bend Overlook charges a parking fee of $10 per vehicle ($35 for light commercial vehicles). During busy periods like the 4th of July weekend, the parking booth attendants will only accept cash, so be sure to have sufficient cash on hand. Note that the America the Beautiful National Park Pass does not apply here, as Horseshoe Bend is managed as a City Park and not by the National Park Service.

The trail to the overlook is a 1.5-mile round trip with moderate elevation gain. Shade is minimal along the trail, so it’s important to bring plenty of water, sun protection, and to take care with children or pets. Pets should wear protective booties during peak summer heat to prevent burns on the hot ground. The overlook is open from sunrise to sunset, and visiting just after sunrise is recommended to avoid the largest crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.

Bring sufficient cash for parking fees, tips for tour guides, restaurant staff, and hotel personnel.
Wear sun protection and bring water, especially if hiking with children or pets.
Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat.
Pets need protective booties during hot summer conditions.

For visiting Antelope Canyon, guided tours are mandatory, and reservations must be made in advance. Popular tours for Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon often sell out quickly, particularly around holidays. If your preferred slot is sold out, consider alternative slot canyons nearby, which offer similar scenic beauty and may have availability:

Antelope Canyon X
Secret Antelope Canyon
Waterholes Canyon
Mystical Antelope Canyon
Ligai Si'Anii
Wind Pebble Canyon

Planning ahead for both Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon will help maximize your visit and avoid unnecessary stress. Early arrival, carrying cash, sun protection, and advance tour reservations are key to a successful trip.

Cash ONLY accepted at Horseshoe Bend, 4th of July weekend

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