The Chains swimming area in Page, Arizona just may be the most convenient way to take a dip in Lake Powell.
The day use area is located just a 5 minute drive from the heart of Page itself, providing quick access to the waters where you can swim, float, and even cliff jump. Depending on the water levels you may even have a small sandy beach to lay on.
Reaching The Chains swimming area does require a little bit of effort, though. It is the desert after all, so of course a bit of work is involved if you want to reach water.
A short walk across the stunning rocks will take you right to where you want to be. In this post we’ll cover exactly how to get there and what to expect!
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The Chains: Page, AZ
- Hiking Distance | 0.4 miles RT
- Difficulty | Easy
- Elevation Gain | 26 feet
- Permits/Fees | None
- Trailhead | The Chains
- Dog Friendly | Yes, but too hot for them in the summer.
Below is a map of The Chains day use area.
The Chains is located on the rocky shores of Lake Powell, not far from the Glen Canyon Dam.
If you’re driving from Page to Utah on Highway 89, you’ll turn right onto Chains Road before you cross the dam.
Follow the road and signs to The Chains day use area and park there. The day use parking is very easy to access and any type of car should be able to reach it! You’ll park in a large parking lot then walk down to the rocky shores.
The Chains is open only for day use between dawn and dusk. No overnight parking is allowed. The parking lot does have a vault toilet for use.
Summer is too hot for the dogs!
Temperatures in Page do get extremely hot throughout the year, especially during summer. If you plan on bringing your dog please only do so during the cooler seasons like late fall, winter, and early spring. Even then, the rocks do get baked in the hot sun. Don’t forget dog boots to protect those paws!
Reaching The Chains Swimming Area
From the parking lot you’ll notice a worn down dirt path that leads out to the rocks. Follow this paired with a bit of natural intuition and you’ll end up at the small swimming area.
I was very surprised at how stunning and fun the short walk was! You have to traverse through some winding rocks and over a few steep sections.
Overall it is easy, but I would be careful at how much you pack with you. On the way back to the parking lot you’ll be going uphill the entire time on the slick rocks.
Depending on the water level you may have a small sandy beach! Otherwise, you’ll have to sit on the hard and extremely hot rock. Come prepared!
I saw a family that had carried down a 10×10 canopy and cooler. You won’t catch me lugging those things, but I did bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, a towel, and water shoes so not to burn my feet or butt when I want to sit out of the water.
Part of the beauty here is that you can wander around the rocky shores and find your own spot. You aren’t chained (ha-ha) to this one particular spot.
Feel free to explore and set up wherever you feel most comfortable!
My friend and I posted up at the main swimming area for several hours and just sat on the rock outcroppings under the water. Waves crash into you as the boats go by and make it kind of fun.
Tips For Visiting The Chains
- This swimming area isn’t young kid friendly! Due to the drop offs into the water and waves, I’d refrain from taking little ones here. Instead, I’d suggest Lone Rock Beach!
- Technically dogs are allowed, but I’d also suggest Lone Rock Beach for them to be able to run around more.
- Bring something to sit on: towel, camping chair, sitting pad, etc.
- Don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat!
- Water shoes are nice to slip on and off due to the rocks burning your feet once you get out of the water.
- Bring a floaty if you want to float out in the water!
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