Marble Canyon, Arizona, is famous for its breathtaking scenery and the opportunity to kayak the Colorado River. However, if you’re looking for adventure beyond the water, this stunning area offers plenty of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. From rugged desert hikes to ancient petroglyphs and scenic viewpoints, Marble Canyon is a paradise for nature lovers. Whether you’re stopping by before a Grand Canyon adventure or making it a destination in itself, here are the best things to do in Marble Canyon besides kayaking.
1. Explore Lees Ferry Hiking Trails
Lees Ferry is a gateway to the Colorado River and one of the most historic spots in Marble Canyon. Beyond its significance in river rafting, it’s also home to some incredible hiking trails that showcase the region’s beauty. If you’re eager to explore, here are some of the best Lees Ferry hiking trails:
Cathedral Wash Trail
One of the most rewarding hikes in the area, Cathedral Wash Trail is a moderate 3-mile round-trip trek through a stunning slot canyon. The hike involves some scrambling over rocks and boulders, but the effort is well worth it. As you descend, you’ll witness towering canyon walls, unique rock formations, and eventually, a breathtaking view of the Colorado River. It’s a perfect mix of adventure and scenic beauty.
Spencer Trail
For those looking for a challenging hike with panoramic views, Spencer Trail is a must-do. This steep, 4.5-mile round-trip trail ascends more than 1,500 feet, leading to a dramatic overlook of Lees Ferry and the surrounding canyon landscape. The trail is strenuous, but the reward at the top—a sweeping view of the Colorado River and Marble Canyon—is unforgettable.
Paria Rimrocks Toadstool Hoodoos Trail
Although slightly farther from Lees Ferry, the Paria Rimrocks Toadstool Hoodoos Trail is a short but unique hike featuring striking rock formations. This easy 1.5-mile round-trip hike is great for families or those looking for a quick but fascinating outdoor experience. The hoodoos, formed by centuries of erosion, resemble giant toadstools and make for great photo opportunities.
2. Visit Lonely Dell Ranch Historic Site
If you’re interested in the history of Marble Canyon, a visit to Lonely Dell Ranch is a must. This historic homestead, located near Lees Ferry, was once a settlement for early pioneers and river ferrymen. Today, visitors can walk through the preserved buildings, explore orchards, and learn about the daily lives of those who lived here in the 19th century. The ranch offers an easy walking trail with interpretive signs that provide insight into the challenges of frontier life.
3. Marvel at the Navajo Bridge
One of the most iconic landmarks in Marble Canyon is the Navajo Bridge, which spans the Colorado River. The original bridge, completed in 1929, was later replaced with a new bridge in 1995, but both structures stand side by side, offering a unique blend of history and scenic views. Walking across the bridge provides stunning perspectives of the river below, and if you’re lucky, you may even spot California Condors soaring overhead.
4. Go Fishing at Lees Ferry
Lees Ferry isn’t just a launching point for kayakers—it’s also a world-class fishing destination. Anglers from all over visit this section of the Colorado River for its excellent trout fishing. The cold, clear waters provide the perfect habitat for rainbow trout, making it a prime location for fly fishing. Whether you’re an experienced angler or trying it for the first time, you can book a guided fishing trip or simply cast a line from the riverbanks.
5. Take a Scenic Drive Along House Rock Valley Road
For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, House Rock Valley Road offers a rugged but scenic drive through the remote Arizona wilderness. This dirt road runs parallel to the Vermilion Cliffs and offers access to some of the area’s most spectacular viewpoints and hidden gems, including:
- The Wave (requires a permit)
- White Pocket (a stunning rock formation that resembles swirling sandstone waves)
- Buckskin Gulch (one of the longest slot canyons in the world)
While some destinations along House Rock Valley Road require 4WD, the journey itself is an adventure worth taking.
6. Camp Under the Stars
Marble Canyon is an excellent spot for camping, offering dark skies perfect for stargazing. Whether you choose to camp at Lees Ferry Campground or venture into more remote areas, the night skies in this region are spectacular. With minimal light pollution, you’ll see the Milky Way stretching across the sky, making for an unforgettable camping experience.
7. Explore Vermilion Cliffs National Monument
Just beyond Marble Canyon, the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument offers some of the most dramatic landscapes in the Southwest. The monument is home to towering cliffs, deep canyons, and unique geological formations. Popular spots within the monument include:
- Coyote Buttes (home to the famous Wave rock formation)
- White Pocket (a surreal landscape of swirling rock formations)
- Buckskin Gulch (a 15-mile-long slot canyon with towering sandstone walls)
Exploring this region requires preparation, as many areas are remote and require high-clearance vehicles or permits.
Conclusion
While kayaking is undoubtedly one of the highlights of visiting Marble Canyon, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy in this stunning region. From the breathtaking Lees Ferry hiking trails to exploring historic sites, fishing, and witnessing incredible geological formations, Marble Canyon is an adventurer’s paradise. Whether you’re hiking to hidden canyons, standing atop dramatic overlooks, or gazing at the stars, Marble Canyon offers unforgettable experiences for every traveler.
So next time you visit Marble Canyon, don’t just bring your kayak—bring your hiking boots and a sense of adventure. There’s so much more to discover beyond the river!