Visit Marble Canyon: Things To See & Do

Marble Canyon is located just southwest of Page, Arizona, and boy is it a sight to behold. Rather, there are sights to behold. Whether you’re taking a drive on the 104 mile stretch of the Vermillion Cliffs Scenic Highway or fishing the Colorado River, there’s a wealth of things to do. Let’s dive in!

Marble Canyon: SEE

We all know that southern Utah and northern Arizona contain some of the most showstopping views in the country. However, do you know where to find all of them. It can actually be quite overwhelming. But no worries, we’re here to help guide you. Before booking a bus trip for Marble Canyon, check Salt Lake Express’s current stops and arrange any onward transportation. Do not assume a scheduled bus runs from Las Vegas or St. George airports directly to Marble Canyon. Once here, there’s an enormous amount to see. Let’s break it down for you.

Vermillion Cliffs Scenic Highway

Highway 89A, also known as the Vermilion Cliffs Scenic Highway, offers views of sandstone cliffs. Arrange your own transportation for the specific scenic route you want to explore.

The Navajo Bridge

You’ll also get to see the Navajo Bridge, which rises over 465 feet above the Colorado River below. According to the National Park Service, the older, historic bridge was completed in 1929. The newer, modern bridge was completed in 1995, effectively retiring the historic bridge after 66 years of service. Not only are the views breathtaking, but hearing the difference in the cost of the bridges is as well. In 1929 the historic bridge cost just $390,000 to construct, while the modern bridge cost $14,700,000 in 1995! Whoa, that’s a lot of dough. There’s also the Navajo Bridge Interpretive Center that you can visit as well. There’s a seasonal visitors center, bookstore, and an area for Native American craft vendors.

Marble Canyon

Only about two hours from Flagstaff, Marble Canyon is magnificent. Popular sites are the Glen Canyon Dam, Lee’s Ferry, and the Navajo Bridge we mentioned above. Imagine everything you love about Zion National Park but just a little less crowded. Marble Canyon is not only beautiful, providing cinematic views everywhere you look, but it’s also full of activities. Which brings us to our next section: Do.

Marble Canyon: DO

While the views are incredible, sometimes you just need to do more than look at something. You need to get out there and explore, touch, and experience. And believe us, there’s plenty of that in the Marble Canyon region.

Fishing The Colorado River

There is a wealth of guides and outfitters in the area if you’re not sure where to start. Whether you’re utilizing one of the many guides and outfitters or if you know what you’re doing, there’s hardly a more beautiful place to commune with mother nature. Fishing, you can do it all. And as the sun sets and you’re in the half-light of the canyon, you’ll have more than one pausing moment of awe.

Kayaking The Colorado River

While you can choose a variety of transportation methods down the Colorado River, we’d recommend kayaking.  It’s such an intimate way to experience the river, the canyon, and all that they have to offer. There are dozens of companies that can rent you all the equipment you need to safely experience the river. And even though we’re partial to kayaking, if it’s not your thing there are options for canoes, boats, and even stand-up paddleboards.

Cliff Dwellers History and Lodging

Cliff Dwellers began as a trading post established by Blanche and Bill Russell. Their original rock house still stands at the property; it is not the same building as the later lodge. Read the lodge’s history, and check Cliff Dwellers Lodge for current rooms and dining.

Marble Canyon: GO

Plan your transportation, lodging, and activities separately, and check access and river conditions before traveling. Check current Salt Lake Express stops before booking the bus portion of your journey.