Type of Hike : Out and Back or Loop
Length: 0.5 to 1.5 Miles depending on route choice
Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: Slickrock Sandstone
Elevation Gain: 150 feet
Dog Friendly: Yes – Leash
Park Pass/Permit Required: No
Directions to the Trailhead
Turn off of Highway 89 1/4 mile (0.4 km) east of Glen Canyon Bridge (the opposite of the Carl Hayden Visitor Center). Drive one mile down a well maintained dirt road past the Hanging Gardens Trailhead and park at the roads end near the bathrooms. Hike downhill over unmarked sandstone following the line of least resistance to the shoreline.
The Chains Hike Description
Enjoy a short hike to a slick rock shoreline with stunning views of the Glen Canyon Dam and Bridge. This area is free to visit and doesn’t require a Glen Canyon National Recreation Area Pass. It’s perfect for a quick walk or for spending the entire day swimming and fishing. For a more extended adventure, you can combine this short walk with the Sentinel Point Hike to create a rewarding loop trail. Note that there is no marked trail here, so be prepared for moderate slick rock scrambling and route finding through the carved sandstone. The access road is closed from sunset to 8 a.m., and shoreline features can vary significantly with water levels.