Glen Canyon Dam Tour — Page, Arizona

Discover the Glen Canyon Dam Tour in Arizona

Experience one of the most impressive engineering feats in the Southwest with the Glen Canyon Dam Tour in Page, Arizona. This guided underground tour takes visitors inside the massive concrete structure that holds back Lake Powell, offering rare access to viewing galleries, powerplant machinery, and panoramic views of the Colorado River corridor. You’ll learn how the dam was built, how electricity is generated, and how water is managed throughout the arid Colorado Plateau.

Why it’s special:
The Glen Canyon Dam Tour delivers a compelling blend of industrial history, hydropower science, and stunning landscape context. Few opportunities exist to go deep inside a major dam site like this, making it a must-see for engineering enthusiasts, river lovers, and curious travelers alike.

History/Story of Glen Canyon Dam

Constructed in the 1950s and early 1960s, Glen Canyon Dam was a centerpiece project of mid-century water management and hydroelectric power generation on the Colorado River. Standing over 700 feet tall and creating Lake Powell — one of the largest man-made reservoirs in the United States — the dam transformed the region’s water and energy landscape. Today, it remains both a critical utility installation and a lasting symbol of large-scale engineering ambition.

What You’ll See & Do on the Glen Canyon Dam Tour

• Descend inside the dam to the viewing galleries deep within the structure

• See massive turbines and generators that produce hydroelectric power

• Explore interpretive exhibits about dam construction and regional water management

• Stand on observation platforms overlooking the canyon and Colorado River

• Learn from knowledgeable guides about geology, technology, and conservation

Hands-On Elements: Insightful commentary from guides, close-up views of power generation equipment, and immersive underground access.
Photo/Video Policy: Photography permitted in public tour areas; always follow guide instructions in operational zones.
Souvenirs & Extras: Visitor center store offers educational gifts, books, maps, and regional keepsakes.

Pricing of Glen Canyon Dam Tour

• Adults (ages 16+): $8

• Youth (ages 4–15): $6

• Children 3 and under: Free
  (*Tour prices reflect standard National Park Service fees and may be updated by the park.)

Practical Info for Visiting Glen Canyon Dam

Duration: About 45–60 minutes
Format: Guided interpretive tour with underground and overlook access
Schedule & Seasonality: Tours operate daily with several start times — advance reservation is strongly recommended, especially in peak season
Working Hours: Tours depart throughout daylight hours; visitor center is typically open 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
Audience: Families, engineering fans, outdoors visitors, students
Accessibility: Dam overlooks and visitor center are accessible; some underground areas involve stairs
Safety & Restrictions: Follow all tour guide and site safety instructions
Languages: English
Group & School Visits: Educational and group tours available with reservation
What to Bring/Wear: Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, water
Facilities: Visitor center, restrooms, shaded overlooks, parking
Closures & Downtime: Tour availability may vary seasonally or due to weather/river releases

Nearby

• Lake Powell National Recreation Area — Water recreation, boating, and scenic views

• Antelope Canyon — Iconic slot canyon experience

• Horseshoe Bend — Dramatic Colorado River overlook

FAQs About Visiting the Glen Canyon Dam Tour

Do I need a reservation for the dam tour?
Yes — reservations are strongly recommended due to limited space and peak demand.

How deep inside the dam do we go?
Tours include underground galleries and provide close-up views of the powerplant area and structure.

Are children allowed on the tour?
Children are welcome; youth and adult pricing apply.

Is the tour physically demanding?
The tour includes walking and some stairs — comfortable shoes and a moderate fitness level help.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Yes, photography is allowed in most tour areas; guests should always follow guide instructions.