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Tag: lake powell

  • Thanks for Supporting Local Business

    When you choose to stay at Liberty Vacation Rentals in Southern Utah, you’re not just booking a cozy home-away-from-home, you’re supporting a local business that’s deeply rooted in our vibrant and small community. We’re featured on Airbnb (with a high rating) and we believe that supporting local businesses is the heartbeat of a thriving region, and here’s why it matters.

    Local businesses like ours fuel the economy of Southern Utah. When you book one of our carefully curated vacation rentals, your dollars stay in the community, creating jobs and fostering growth. From our dedicated cleaning staff to local maintenance team, every booking directly supports hardworking families in the area. This ripple effect strengthens the region, ensuring that the stunning landscapes of the nearby national parks, Lake Powell, and beyond, remain accessible and well-maintained for future visitors.

    Beyond economics, choosing local enhances your travel experience. At Liberty Vacation Rentals, we’re not a faceless corporation—we’re your neighbors, passionate about showcasing Southern Utah’s beauty. Our team offers insider tips on the best hiking trails, hidden gem restaurants, and family-friendly activities, giving you an authentic, personalized adventure. Supporting us means you’re investing in a stay that’s tailored to your needs, with the warmth and care only a local business can provide.

    Moreover, local businesses are committed to sustainability. We prioritize eco-friendly practices, like using solar energy, finding local suppliers, and reducing waste, to preserve Southern Utah’s breathtaking environment. By choosing us, you’re contributing to a greener future for this stunning destination, and you get a great rate on our apartment suites (with kitchen, private laundry, and separate bedrooms), when compared to nearby hotels.

    So remember to support local, embrace authenticity, and make a lasting impact on Southern Utah’s community—one stay at a time.

  • Explore More of Southern Utah

    As the days grow longer and warmer, many of us start dreaming of summer vacations filled with adventure and natural beauty. If you’re looking for a destination that offers stunning landscapes, outdoor activities, and a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, look no further than Southern Utah.

    Southern Utah is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a unique and unforgettable vacation experience. From towering red rock formations to serene national parks such as Zion and Bryce, this region has something for everyone.

    One of the must-visit destinations in Southern Utah is Zion National Park. Known for its breathtaking canyons, emerald pools, and diverse wildlife, Zion offers endless opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and photography. The iconic Angel’s Landing hike is a thrilling adventure that rewards hikers with panoramic views of the park’s stunning landscape.

    For those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience, consider exploring Bryce Canyon National Park. Famous for its hoodoos—tall, thin spires of rock that create a surreal landscape—Bryce Canyon is a paradise for hikers and photographers. The park’s scenic overlooks, such as Sunrise Point and Sunset Point, offer mesmerizing vistas that are especially beautiful during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.

    If you’re craving water-based activities, Southern Utah has you covered as well. Lake Powell, a reservoir on the Colorado River, is a popular destination for boating, kayaking, and fishing. With its crystal-clear waters and red rock backdrop, Lake Powell provides a refreshing escape from the summer heat. Liberty Vacation Rentals is just a few minutes from this lake, at Lone Rock Beach.

    After a day of adventure, unwind in one of Southern Utah’s charming towns, such as Kanab or Springdale. These quaint communities offer a range of accommodations, from cozy cabins to luxurious resorts, ensuring a comfortable stay for every traveler.

    In addition to its natural beauty, Southern Utah also boasts a rich cultural heritage. Explore ancient Native American sites, such as the ruins at Mesa Verde or the petroglyphs at Newspaper Rock, to gain insight into the region’s history and heritage.

    Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping activities or peaceful moments in nature, Southern Utah has it all. Plan your summer vacation in this breathtaking region and prepare for an unforgettable adventure amidst some of America’s most awe-inspiring landscapes.

  • The Low-Down on Lake Powell

    The Low-Down on Lake Powell

    Greetings, travelers. I want you to know this is a real post generated by a real person. That’s me, Adam Wagener, the proprietor of Liberty Vacation Rental. I’ve lived in this area for over 10 years, and I want to clarify a few things. For starters, the lake has plenty of water, and is still doing what it was meant to do:

    – it’s a fun place for water sports in the summer time
    – it’s still fun and peaceful in the winter (although, less busy)
    – it’s generating hydro-electric power via the dam (green energy)
    – it’s a habitat for a myriad of unique wildlife

    Lake Powell is a stunning reservoir located in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, straddling the border between Utah and Arizona in the United States. It’s a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

    In 2023, you can expect to find a wide range of activities and attractions at Lake Powell. The lake itself offers ample opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. You can rent a houseboat and spend your days exploring the crystal-clear waters, or take a guided tour to discover hidden coves and majestic rock formations.

    If you’re into hiking, there are several trails in the area that offer breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding canyons. Some popular hikes include the Hanging Garden Trail, the Rainbow Bridge Trail, and the Horseshoe Bend Trail. Make sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the desert heat can be intense.

    For those interested in history and culture, a visit to the nearby Navajo Nation is a must. You can learn about the rich Native American heritage of the area and even participate in traditional ceremonies and events. The Navajo Nation also offers unique shopping opportunities, where you can find beautiful handmade crafts and jewelry.

    When it comes to accommodations, there are plenty of options to choose from, including Liberty Vacation Rentals! There are many hotels and resorts in the area, or if you’re looking for a more immersive experience, consider camping at one of the campgrounds near the lake. Just make sure to book your accommodations well in advance, as Lake Powell is a popular destination and tends to fill up quickly, especially on holiday weekends. Booking early can help you avoid price gouging, at some hotels.

    In terms of dining, you’ll find a variety of restaurants and cafes in the nearby towns of Page, Arizona, and Kanab, Utah. From casual eateries serving up classic American fare to upscale restaurants offering gourmet cuisine, and authentic Western places, there’s something to satisfy every palate.

    Overall, a trip to Lake Powell in 2024 should be an unforgettable experience. With its stunning natural beauty, outdoor activities, and rich cultural heritage, it’s a destination that has something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime at Lake Powell!

  • Buckskin Gulch

    Buckskin Gulch

    What say you? In southern Utah or northern AZ and not sure what to do? You must not be looking deep enough — deep into the earth, that is.  Many tourists come into the area with a linear focus on Antelope Canyon, and they ignore other great places, such as Buckskin Gulch.

    Antelope is privately owned by a Navajo family, within the Navajo Nation, and beautiful, nonetheless.  As seen on Instagram, it is stunning. How could you not be in awe of such an incredible display of nature? What if I told you there’s another area close to Antelope Canyon that’s just as magnificent; even better, it’s Antelope Canyon on steroids? And… And… It’s much cheaper than Antelope.

    Don’t get me wrong:  Antelope is stunning and well worth the tour if you can afford it or make it with or without a reservation. Wouldn’t you rather or in addition to explore the longest slot canyon in the US, possibly the world? I have and will go back many more times to get my fix exploring this extremely amazing natural environment.

    Do you want the juice? Are you ready for the juice? LOL Here’s the juice… BUCKSKIN GULCH is the longest slot canyon in the United States and possibly the world. It’s around 40 miles west of Antelope Canyon. Yes, lovely adventure seekers!  Antelope Canyon is not the only slot canyon in the southwest. I bet you didn’t know there are well over 1,000 slot canyons below interstate 70 in Utah and quite a few more in northern Arizona. Unfortunately, most of the slot canyons require canyoneering skills, while some are not really worth the time and effort to explore.  And many are privately owned by the Navajo Nation.

    IN ADDITION TO…

    Buckskin Gulch is a slot canyon I have wanted to explore since 2017.  Here at Liberty Vacation Rentals, we host guests from around the world quite frequently. Once, we hosted twin sisters. They were super excited to hike this slot canyon and couldn’t wait to begin their journey. I was excited for them, until I read the details regarding this adventure. It so happens these ladies were going to hike the longest slot canyon in the US and most likely the longest one in the world. It’s located just under 30 miles from our AirBnB in southern Utah; 18 miles on the highway and then a few more, down road of gravel and dirt. The name BUCKSKIN GULCH comes from the color of deer hide. It’s also called Kaibab Canyon which makes more sense to me. Kaibab means “the mountain lying down.”  It’s a terrific alternative to Antelope Canyon or Waterhole Canyon, or Secret Canyon, or Cardiac Canyon, or Rattlesnake Canyon.  (Did you know there were so many?)  Sometimes, these other canyons have sold out of space, and have long waiting lines.  Think of Buckskin Gulch as another great hike, in addition to these slot canyon major attractions. It is a definite photo op for tourists and explorers, when they come to visit the area.

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    GETTING THERE…

    From Highway 89, it’s less than ten miles down a road built for ranchers back in the day. Sometimes flash floods and weather will wash away portions of the road but the highway officials will fill it in with more gravel eventually. Any car will make the trek on a normal day if you take it slow and steady. Although during the winter months of snow or rain, only a four-wheel drive will make it down House Rock Valley Road to the parking area at the end.  Here, you can access The Wave (permit required), Wire Pass, and Buckskin Gulch. There are actually a few different parking areas. We found the one shared with The Wave is the best location to start the hike into Buckskin Gulch.

    At the parking area, grab a day use permit from the kiosk, deposit money, and fill in the form as instructed. Hike across the gravel road to start the trailhead for WirePass. Continue onto the Wire Pass trail. You will be heading back north close to the road. Protect yourself in the first mile because of the extreme sun exposure. It will curve to the right and head east. In the middle of WirePass trail you will come to a rock jammed in the narrow slot canyon. Just over the rock is a lower level. The rock adds at least two feet onto the level and you must pass over this rock to go further into the canyon. The second level is around six feet down. So it’s around eight feet you must climb down and back up when leaving. There is an alternative to WirePass to get to BUCKSKIN GULCH, but it’s worth the effort to move forward in this direction. This “rock jam” is the only obstacle for this pass. Be cautious using the rope provided around the rock. It’s not stable and you could fall off. Be careful.

    On with the trail. The next part of the hike will enter a confluence for WirePass and Buckskin Gulch. This is where you will hike north or south. We headed north and it was pretty spectacular. The gulch is much wider and the canyon walls vary in height. The extent of the canyon continues east for 40 some odd miles to Marble Canyon and Lee’s Ferry. There are several trails through the passes although I would suggest a day hike in and out of the canyon. Stay hydrated and aware of the weather, especially any flash flood warnings, during and after rainfall.  Take provisions. The only bathrooms are located at the trailhead. Don’t get caught up in sneaking into “The Wave”. It’s a hefty fine and possible jail time. Not worth the time and effort to see a landmark. Especially if you know where to look, you can see similar “waves” within other places all around the area.

    So… that’s the juice. Are you pumped to see Buckskin Gulch? I am definitely pumped to go back and to tell others. Antelope is amazing but you will be pleasantly surprised with this canyon. It’s cheaper and so much more to see. I would advise using AllTrails app to help you navigate this hike and so many others in the area. If you are staying with us in our AirBnB, we have so many places we can fill you in to explore more on your adventure and journey into nature and the WildWest.

     

    Antelope Canyon on Steroids – Side effects:
    Positive:  A spectacular performance of nature.
    Negative:  Watch for flash floods and heat exhaustion.

     

  • Noisy Hotel Syndrome?

    Noisy Hotel Syndrome?

    Kids jumping on the bed. Loud televisions one room over. Couples doing loud, horizontal activities in the room above you. One of the worst things that could happen after you check into your room — noisy hotel syndrome. Why should you have to suffer that?

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    Here at Liberty Vacation Rentals, we’ve been in business since 2016, with over 1,000 guest check-ins, and we’re proud to say that we have (so far) ZERO noise complaints. One of the nice things about our small community is that we’re very quiet. You’re more likely to hear the wind rustling through the trees, than hear an inconsiderate neighbor. You won’t need earplugs or an extra pillow over your ears to enjoy a night here.

    Our building designer took this into consideration in the blueprints.  That’s why there’s extra insulation and very thick drywall separating our suites.  Because most guests go out to explore the lake and the canyons,  we don’t put televisions in our listings.  Also, unlike a hotel or condominium, no one will be sleeping above you or below you.

    That’s the difference you get with Liberty Vacation Rentals. Come try us out!

    Click on OUR LISTINGS in the menu bar, or click below to see some of our complete suite listings on the AIRBNB site.

    THE GRAND ESCALANTE SUITE 

    THE WAHWEAP BAY SUITE

    THE LONE ROCK SUITE

  • “Up, Up and Away!” Hot Air Balloon Regatta

    “Up, Up and Away!” Hot Air Balloon Regatta

    The 2018 Lake Powell Balloon Regatta gave rise to dozens of beautiful hot-air balloons, with enthusiasts rising high above the city of Page, Arizona, as well as the surrounding lake and canyons.

    Family fun activities included music, rides, and inflatables for kids of all ages.  Live music was also provided, throughout the day.  About 100 different vendors, with concessions and artisans’ crafts were for sale, and a part of the experience.  Admission to the event, and parking, is free.

    The Balloon Glow event continues in the evening, with a floating lantern ceremony as well. Dress warm for this outdoor event.

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    Photos by JennMarie Baker

  • Swimming by the Glen Canyon Dam

    Swimming by the Glen Canyon Dam

    A free and fun jaunt down to the lake’s “secret” swimming area is fun for any water baby. Turn toward the Hanging Gardens hiking trail, right by the bridge over the dam. This will be the second left after crossing the bridge, if you’re going south, and a quick right turn, before you reach the bridge, if going north. Of course, if you miss it, just turn around at the visitor center. The road will meander down for about a mile, to an unpaved parking lot with a public restroom. Some swimmers also follow a “tops optional” policy in this swimming area.

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    After you park, simply walk carefully down the slanted, sandstone canyon walls, until you reach the water. This is a great place to swim from late spring to late fall. If you’re a polar bear, the good news is that the water never freezes over, even in winter. This is because the heat of the sun insulates the canyon walls, transferring heat into the surface of the lake. Many swimmers will find the top three feet of the water much warmer than below.

    WARNINGS: This area of Lake Powell is beautiful, but adds a small amount of danger, as the water is over 400 feet deep, and no lifeguards are on duty. Be on the lookout for occasional debris or broken bottles, and if you have a heart, please pick up any trash that was left behind by less savvy visitors. A new threat is now in the lake as well: quagga mussels. These invasive clam-like growths, can be sharp and growing on the rocks. Just keep an eye out for them when entering and exiting the water. Braver souls may want to swim across the canyon and cliff dive. Watch out for rocks under the surface of the water when jumping in, and beware of jet skis and boats, if you are swimming far away from the beach area.

    CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO

  • Hoodoos are a Natural Balancing Act

    Hoodoos are a Natural Balancing Act

    They have formed over thousands of years, and transform boring deserts into fantastical alien landscapes. “Hoodoos” are also called fairy chimneys, earth pyramids and tent rocks, and they exist as tall spires of rock that protrude from the bottom of arid basins and broken lands. They range from five-feet tall to the height of a 10-story building, and typically form from two weathering processes that continuously work together in eroding the edges of a rock formation. Hoodoos come in all shapes and sizes.

    A large hoodoo, balancing by itself, for god-knows how long….

    Just 10 miles south of our establishment, is an area full of hoodoos, known as the Toadstools. It’s a very easy, 1 mile hike, and good during any season of the year (avoid going on rainy days). The soft, crimson clay earth under your feet feels like walking on Mars. Who knows how long these rock formations will remain standing? Remember to respect nature and keep the area magically unspoiled: never try to push over or knock down a hoodoo, do not carve names into the rocks, and of course, take any trash with you.

    JeniMae walking on the Toadstool Hoodoos trail, outside of Big Water, Utah.

    If you’re more adventurous, you can hike a full four miles to see even more hoodoos. The trail is well defined, as dozens of people make this hike on any given day. Park your car in the lot near the trailhead sign. You can find it on Google Maps by searching for “Toadstool Hoodoos”. This hiking trail currently has no water fountain or public restroom.

    If you need a great place to get rest after your journey, come and stay at Liberty Vacation Rentals! We’re just 10 miles east of the Toadstool Hoodoos.

    CLICK HERE for YOUTUBE VIDEO

    CLICK HERE for MORE IMAGES on INSTAGRAM

  • Sundance Helicopter Tours

    Sundance Helicopter Tours

    If you think helicopter tours are expensive, think again. We took a ride with Sundance Helicopter Tours, from the Page Arizona airport, and got an amazing view of Horseshoe Bend, Lake Powell, and the Glen Canyon Dam. Our pilot, Nathan, was very professional. The seats were comfortable, and the quality of the experience was unsurpassed. The pilot gave us commentary on some of the landmarks, and thanks to the design of the windows, we could see above, below, and practically all around us. We got some cool footage as well, on our new hand-held gimbal.

    Link to YouTube: – CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO –

    Tags: Heli, Helicopter, Tour, Horseshoe Bend, Lake Powell, Grand Canyon, Glen Canyon, Dam, Pilot, Fun, Fly, Tourism, Amazing, Nature, Desert, Wild West

  • So Many Hiking Trails – Zion Canyon

    So Many Hiking Trails – Zion Canyon

    One of our absolutely favorite canyons to visit is the magnificent Zion. Its massive and naturally air-conditioned environment with unique terrain is unlike any other. Various forms of wildlife exist inside, including turkeys, deer, moose, chipmunks, mountain goats, and many birds. Occasionally, you may look on the canyon walls, and see professional mountain climbers scaling up and down.

    This canyon is unlike many others in the area, as it features a lodge with hotel rooms, usually upwards of $200 per night, for two people. Because we’re just over a one-hour drive away, JennMarie and I like to go for day trips at Zion on a regular basis, and many of our guests do, as well.

    The Narrows hiking trail is actually a wet and wild experience. You’ll be trekking through the Virgin River, as it flows through Zion. Highly recommended, for healthy and agile explorers.

    When visiting, you may park at nearly any shoulder off the main road, which zig-zags through the canyon, or you might also park at the visitor’s center. Hop aboard the free shuttle to travel to many of the hiking trails. Popular trails include: Angel’s Landing, Emerald Pools, the Narrows, Observation Point, and Weeping Rock. Check out these great photos, here on our blog, as well as the video link of Weeping Rock, below. The sun light coming through the clouds, as drip water seeped in front of us like a veener, led to some beautiful video.

    In early September 2018, Utah experienced a couple days of massive, monsoon rain, which caused flash flooding and rock falls in Zion National Park in southwestern Utah. Such rainfall is rare, but will render some trails unsafe. The park received nearly 3 inches of rain in three hours on a Wednesday night. Now, many of the hiking trails have re-opened.

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    REMEMBER: Hike on days when flash flood warnings are not in effect, to keep your risk to a minimum. Keep your balance when going up in elevation. Pack snacks and water. Get food, drinks, and beer at the cafeteria in the lodge. Take your trash with you as you hike in the trails, and don’t feed wildlife.