A large sandstone arch - a natural bridge.

Rainbow Bridge National Monument

National Monument · Utah

NPS Photo / Scott Dowd

📍 StateUtah
🏛️ TypeNational Monument
🎟️ EntryFree
🏃 Activities6
Official NPS Website →
Rainbow Bridge National Monument

Natural bridge in San Juan County, Utah, United States

Rainbow Bridge is a natural arch in southern Utah, United States. With a span of 275 feet (84 m), as reported in 1974 by the Bureau of Reclamation, and height of 290 feet (88 m), it is one of the largest natural arches in the world. At the top it is 42 feet (13 m) thick and 33 feet (10 m) wide. The bridge, which is of cultural importance to a number of area Native American tribes, has been designated a Traditional Cultural Property by the National Park Service. Rainbow Bridge National Monument was protected in 1910, and it is administered by Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.

WikipediaWikidataSource: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA)

About Rainbow Bridge National Monument

Rainbow Bridge is one of the world's largest known natural bridges. The span has undoubtedly inspired people throughout time--from the neighboring Native American tribes who consider Rainbow Bridge sacred, to the thousands of visitors from around the world who visit it each year. Please visit Rainbow Bridge in a spirit that honors and respects the cultures to whom it is sacred.

Park Photos

A large sandstone arch - a natural bridge.
A view of Rainbow Bridge from the air.
A large crowd faces away from the camera at the scenery.
Boats and personal watercraft sidle up to docks.
An elderly Native American man sits in a lawn chair under Rainbow Bridge
Park Ranger standing in front of perfectly curved sandstone arch

Activities

Operating Hours

Rainbow Bridge National Monument

Rainbow Bridge National Monument is open every day of the year, from sunrise to sunset. On rare occasions, the park may be closed for visitor safety while significant trail and/or dock repairs are taking place. Contact the park for up-to-date information on any closures in effect. Overnight camping or docking your boat is prohibited.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to enter Rainbow Bridge National Monument?

Rainbow Bridge National Monument is free to enter.

What are the best activities at Rainbow Bridge National Monument?

Popular activities at Rainbow Bridge National Monument include: Boating, Boat Tour, Guided Tours, Boat Tour, Hiking, Junior Ranger Program.

What is the weather like at Rainbow Bridge National Monument?

Summers are extremely hot with little, if any, shade. Winters are moderately cold with night time lows often below freezing. Spring weather is highly variable with extended periods of strong winds. Fall is generally mild. Temperatures range from 110°F (43°C) in June & July to 20°F (-7°C) in December & January. Although precipitation is generally less than 6 inches (15cm) annually, both heavy rains and flash flooding can occur, particularly during the summer monsoon season.

How do I get to Rainbow Bridge National Monument?

Rainbow Bridge National Monument is located between Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and the Navajo Nation. *There are no roads to or near the monument.* Rainbow Bridge can be reached by boat on Lake Powell or by hiking one of two trails around Navajo Mountain on the Navajo Nation, by permit only. Boat tours are available. The entrance to Forbidding Canyon is located at buoy 49 on Lake Powell. Boaters should be familiar with the Aids to Navigation (buoy) system and use a navigational map.

Entrance Fees

Free Admission

Weather

Summers are extremely hot with little, if any, shade. Winters are moderately cold with night time lows often below freezing. Spring weather is highly variable with extended periods of strong winds. Fall is generally mild. Temperatures range from 110°F (43°C) in June & July to 20°F (-7°C) in December & January. Although precipitation is generally less than 6 inches (15cm) annually, both heavy rains and flash flooding can occur, particularly during the summer monsoon season.

Directions

Rainbow Bridge National Monument is located between Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and the Navajo Nation. *There are no roads to or near the monument.* Rainbow Bridge can be reached by boat on Lake Powell or by hiking one of two trails around Navajo Mountain on the Navajo Nation, by permit only. Boat tours are available. The entrance to Forbidding Canyon is located at buoy 49 on Lake Powell. Boaters should be familiar with the Aids to Navigation (buoy) system and use a navigational map.

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Location

State(s)
Coordinates37.0779, -110.9655

Official Resources

NPS Official Website