Swimming at Lake Powell

Swimming at Lake Powell
Located in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area on the Utah/Arizona border, Lake Powell is one of the nation's most scenic and versatile lakes. With its painted desert landscape and warm waters, Lake Powell is a mecca for tourists and locals alike to swim, cliff jump, boat or just catch some rays.

Lone Rock Beach

Description: Named for the monolithic rock rising from the lake nearby, Lone Rock is a large stretch of soft sandy beach. Access to the water is easy and gradual.

Things to do: Perfect for swimming, camping, ATVs and boating. Lone Rock is an excellent spot for children because access to the water is so easy.

How to get there: Located in Utah, Lone Rock is accessed just off of Highway 89 to the west. Because of the soft sand vehicles with four-wheel drive are recommended.

Tips: For a less crowded and more enjoyable experience, do not camp at Lone Rock on holidays, when weekend crowds turn the beach into an all-night party.

The Coves

Description: The Coves is a series of short canyons created by the curves of the rock formations. There is some soft sand, but it is mostly hard sandstone. Access to the water requires some hiking and possible cliff jumping depending on water levels.

Things to do: This area is well-suited for the more adventurous swimmer and provides plenty of opportunity to cliff jump and dive.

How to get there: The Coves is south of Lone Rock Beach and is accessed through the main park entrance. There is a paved road and parking lot at the site.

Tips: Use caution when cliff jumping to avoid shallow waters and other swimmers.

Wahweap Beach and Marina

Description: This long stretch of soft sandy beach is similar to Lone Rock but with more vegetation. Water access is easy and gradual.

Things to do: Swimming, boating, sun-bathing, shopping, eating and camping in the nearby campground are all popular activities at Wahweap.

How to get there: Wahweap is the central hub of the recreation area and is accessed through the main park entrance. There you will find paved roads and parking lots, a boat launch, several gift shops, restaurants, a campground and the beach.

Article Written By Hollie Reina

Based in St. George, Utah, Hollie Reina recently started her professional writing career writing outdoor-related articles for Trails.com. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Utah.

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