Beehive & New Wave Trails, Page AZ


• 4-star hikes
• 1 to 2 mile options
• Easy difficulty | Gain 80 to 230 feet
• Page, AZ | Southwest US
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Wind-sculpted sandstone formations on the New Wave Trail. The smooth, curved rock surfaces have been shaped by centuries of desert winds, creating beautiful natural textures and patterns. The unique shapes and reddish hues of the stone contrast against the vast desert landscape. Wind sculpted sandstone on the New Wave Trail.

Adjacent to the Glen Canyon Dam and close to the Arizona town of Page, the Beehive and New Wave trails guide walkers around sandstone outcroppings and other windswept rock formations. Combined with breathtaking views of the surrounding desert landscape and distant mountains, this often overlooked trail is among the best hikes short hikes in the area.

Frequently outlined by rows of small rocks, the trail is mostly solid rock underfoot with occasional sandy sections. Though we've categorized these trails as easy, there are some sloping rocky sections that would be best tackled with good hiking footwear. Neither the trailheads or trails are well signposted, but with our maps should be easy to navigate. Although this location is within the Glen Canyon Recreation Area no entrance fee is required to access it.
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RED Square 4★ Beehive & New Wave Loop   1.5 mi loop, easy, gain 190 ft
AllTrails · GPX File · Directions
PURPLE Square 4★ New Wave Loop   0.8 mi loop, easy, gain 80 ft
AllTrails · GPX File · Directions

RED Square Beehive & New Wave Loop
Coupled with a further 0.5 mile out-and-back overlook spur, this is our recommended route. The rock formations known as the beehives visible from this trail might take some imagination to recognize, but they are nevertheless impressive and add to the dramatic Glen Canyon landscape. The route links up with the New Wave Trail to create a single loop. The trailhead is located only a short distance off Highway 89. Park either near the trailhead or in the large camping area across the road.

A stunning view of the majestic sandstone formations at the New Wave Trail, characterized by vibrant colors and intricate patterns sculpted by nature. The photograph captures the beautiful interplay of light and shadow on the textured surfaces, showcasing the unique geological features of this iconic landscape. Views from the Beehive Trail.

PURPLE Square 4★ New Wave Loop
This shorter trail still provides the greatest hits - views of the wavy stratified rocky outcroppings and 360 degree views of the desert landscape. It's a great trail for folk looking for sightseeing opportunities away from the road, and a chance to explore the craggy surroundings. Be aware that the slightly more distant trailhead requires an additional half mile of dirt road driving that most vehicles can manage - though do not proceed onto the sandy tracks beyond the trailhead unless you have a vehicle and the experience to handle the terrain.

A scenic view along the New Wave trail, showcasing dramatic cliffs on the right, inviting exploration and offering a glimpse of nature's raw beauty. The cliffs of the New Wave trail are on the right.

Overlook Spur
We're glad we checked out the quarter mile trail to the overlook, affording us with even more great views among the rocky red toadstools while accompanied by even less foot traffic. A great place to take a breather and enjoy the captivating views.

Nearby to this location is the town of Page and the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. We heartily recommend Page as a base to visit many nearby trails, undertake more tours and visit the Glen Canyon Dam. We had time to visit only a few trails in this area which you can find in our Trailspotting Nearby section below, but we're looking to return to check out the remote Rainbow Bridge and the Vermillion Cliffs as well as other short hikes like the Hanging Gardens.

At the end of the Overlook Spur, the landscape unfolds into breathtaking vistas, with viewers captivated by the surrounding beauty and natural formations. Admiring the views at the end of the Overlook Spur.

Sandy tracks leading towards the New Wave Trailhead, hinting at the adventure that awaits and inviting explorers to tread through the unique terrain. Sandy tracks at near the New Wave Trailhead.

The imposing Glen Canyon Dam is showcased in this image, representing an engineering marvel surrounded by stunning landscapes that enhance its grandeur. The massive and nearby Glen Canyon Dam.

Tangents:
• National Park Service: Beehives Trailhead
• Public Map at AllTrails: Beehive Trail
• Facebook Group: Comment on this article


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