“The world's largest natural bridge: a 290-foot pink Navajo sandstone arch spanning a side canyon near Lake Powell. Accessible by boat or a 14-mile backcountry hike. Sacred to the Navajo Nation.”
About This Location
Rainbow Bridge National Monument protects the world's largest known natural bridge — a 290-foot arch of salmon-pink Navajo sandstone spanning a tributary canyon near Lake Powell in Arizona. Sacred to the Navajo Nation (Nonnezoshe, 'Rainbow Turned to Stone') and to multiple other Southwestern tribes, the bridge carries extraordinary cultural weight in addition to its geological spectacle. Access is primarily by boat across Lake Powell — a 50-mile round trip from Wahweap Marina — making it one of the more logistically demanding NPS locations in the Southwest. A 14-mile backcountry hike through Navajo Nation land is the alternative. Both options require NPS and potentially Navajo Nation permits. Filming is permitted with appropriate NPS Special Use authorization. The bridge's sheer scale overwhelms any standard wide lens. For productions seeking an iconic natural arch without the crowds of more accessible arches, Rainbow Bridge remains one of the most genuinely awe-inspiring locations in the country.
Color Palette
Location
📍 Open in Google Maps →Permit Information
Permit Required
Type
NPS Commercial Film Permit
Fee
Varies – NPS location fee + cost recovery
Contact
Glen Canyon NRA / Rainbow Bridge NM Permits
Contact Permit Office
📞 928-608-6200Navajo Nation land surrounds monument — off-trail travel requires Navajo Nation permit in addition to NPS permit. Sacred site protocols must be followed.
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