Alstrom Point
Experience Mars on Earth! Alstrom Point offers breathtaking, otherworldly views of Lake Powell with a unique, rugged landscape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Alstrom Point
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience Mars on Earth! Alstrom Point offers breathtaking, otherworldly views of Lake Powell with a unique, rugged landscape.
"The views are absolutely spectacular and unlike anything I've ever seen!"
🚗 4x4 is a MUST
Don't attempt the drive without a high-clearance 4x4. The last 2 miles are very rough!
🏕️ Free Camping Available
Popular spot for free dispersed camping with incredible views. Pack out everything you pack in.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Lake Powell Views
Overlooking Lake Powell
Witness stunning, expansive vistas of Lake Powell, even when the water levels are low. The landscape resembles Mars.
Otherworldly Martian Landscape
Alstrom Point area
Experience a unique, Mars-like terrain with colorful rock formations and vast, open spaces. Perfect for photographers.
Sunrise and Sunset Spectacle
Alstrom Point viewpoint
Catch unforgettable sunrise and sunset views that paint the sky and landscape in vibrant colors. Often enjoyed in solitude.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Vehicle & Road Conditions
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 4x4 is a MUST
Don't attempt the drive without a high-clearance 4x4. The last 2 miles are very rough! 
🏕️ Free Camping Available
Popular spot for free dispersed camping with incredible views. Pack out everything you pack in.
🌅 Golden Hour Magic
Sunrise and sunset offer the most spectacular, otherworldly views.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
There are no facilities. Bring all your supplies, especially water, as it's a remote desert location.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 4x4 is a MUST
Don't attempt the drive without a high-clearance 4x4. The last 2 miles are very rough!
🏕️ Free Camping Available
Popular spot for free dispersed camping with incredible views. Pack out everything you pack in.
🌅 Golden Hour Magic
Sunrise and sunset offer the most spectacular, otherworldly views.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
There are no facilities. Bring all your supplies, especially water, as it's a remote desert location.
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable. Download maps before you go to navigate the dirt roads.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the absolutely stunning, otherworldly views of Lake Powell and the Mars-like landscape at Alstrom Point. The remote location and opportunity for free camping are major draws, offering a sense of solitude and adventure. However, the challenging 25-mile dirt road requiring a 4x4 vehicle is a significant hurdle for many.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Alstrom Point is accessed via a rough, unpaved 25-mile road from Big Water, Utah, or from Page, Arizona. A high-clearance 4x4 vehicle is absolutely essential, especially for the final two miles which are particularly challenging.
No, the road is primarily a rough dirt road for almost the entire 25-mile stretch. It requires a vehicle with good ground clearance and 4WD capabilities.
It is strongly advised against driving a regular car. The road conditions are too rough and can damage a standard vehicle. A 4x4 is a must.
The drive can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours one-way, depending on your vehicle, driving speed, and road conditions.
Yes, Alstrom Point is accessible from Page, Arizona, as well as Kanab, Utah. The drive is approximately 25 miles on a dirt road.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No permit is required to visit Alstrom Point itself, as it's within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area but is a free access point.
Alstrom Point is open 24/7 as it is an outdoor natural area. However, driving the rough road at night is not recommended.
While Alstrom Point itself doesn't have a separate fee, it is located within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, which typically has an entrance fee if you are entering from a main park entrance. However, access via the dirt road is generally free.
No advance booking or tickets are necessary for Alstrom Point, as it's a natural viewpoint and not a ticketed attraction.
The main restriction is the need for a suitable vehicle. Always practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out everything you pack in.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
Sunrise and sunset are considered the most magical times for photography, offering dramatic lighting and colors. The landscape also has an otherworldly feel during the day.
Expect breathtaking, panoramic views of Lake Powell and a unique, Mars-like landscape with colorful rock formations.
Yes, due to its remote location and minimal light pollution, Alstrom Point is an excellent spot for astrophotography, offering clear views of the night sky.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A tripod is useful for sunrise/sunset shots. Don't forget extra batteries!
The main viewpoint offers a vast panorama. You can also hike a short distance to find different angles and perspectives of the lake and surrounding terrain.
🎫 🏕️ Camping & Facilities
Yes, Alstrom Point is a popular spot for free dispersed camping. Many visitors enjoy rooftop camping or setting up tents with incredible views.
No, there are no facilities at Alstrom Point. This includes restrooms, water, or trash receptacles. You must be self-sufficient.
Bring all your camping gear, food, water, and pack out absolutely everything you bring in. Be prepared for desert conditions.
Camping is generally safe, but always be aware of your surroundings, weather conditions, and wildlife. Inform someone of your plans.
Campfires may be restricted depending on fire danger levels. Always check current regulations for Glen Canyon National Recreation Area before planning a campfire.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, the rough road and lack of facilities mean it's not ideal for very young children or strollers. Pack plenty of snacks, water, and entertainment for the drive. Consider it more of a scenic viewpoint stop rather than a destination for extended family activities. The stunning views are the main draw, and the effort to get there is rewarded with a memorable, albeit challenging, experience.
+1🚗 Off-Road Enthusiasts & Overlanders
+1 The opportunity for free dispersed camping with incredible views makes it a popular overnight stop for overlanders. +1Many enjoy the solitude and the chance to explore a less-traveled part of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. The unique landscape also offers fantastic opportunities for photography and stargazing. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles diligently to help preserve this ruggedly beautiful area.
📸 Photographers & Stargazers
+1 The sunrise and sunset are particularly spectacular, providing dramatic lighting that enhances the already otherworldly scenery. +1 Don't forget your wide-angle lens and tripod! As a remote location with minimal light pollution, Alstrom Point is also an exceptional spot for astrophotography. The clear desert skies offer a brilliant canvas for capturing the stars, planets, and the Milky Way.
Camping overnight allows for extended shooting sessions and the chance to experience the landscape under the moonlight. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Rough Terrain
+3 It's crucial to have a vehicle equipped for off-road conditions; attempting this in a standard car is highly discouraged and could lead to damage. Downloading offline maps is also a wise precaution, as cell service is unreliable in this remote area. Many visitors share their experiences of having the entire place to themselves, highlighting the remoteness and exclusivity of the destination.
+1 This isolation adds to the appeal for those seeking a true escape into nature. Be prepared for a primitive experience – there are no facilities, so bring everything you need, including plenty of water and food. Pro Tip: Check recent road conditions if possible, especially after rain, as the dirt road can become significantly more challenging. Some travelers recommend airing down tires slightly for a smoother ride on the rougher sections, but always ensure you have the means to reinflate them.
Capturing the Otherworldly Beauty
+1 The expansive views of Lake Powell, even when the water is low, provide a dramatic backdrop. The real magic, however, happens during the golden hours. Sunrise and sunset at Alstrom Point are described as unforgettable, with the light casting a warm glow over the terrain and painting the sky in spectacular hues. +1Many visitors recommend bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the panorama. A tripod is also highly beneficial for capturing those stunning sunrise and sunset shots, especially in lower light conditions.
The remoteness of Alstrom Point means minimal light pollution, making it an excellent location for astrophotography as well. Imagine capturing the Milky Way over this alien-like landscape – a truly unique experience. Remember to pack extra batteries and memory cards, as you'll likely find yourself taking far more photos than you initially planned. The sheer beauty and unique geological features make Alstrom Point a standout destination for anyone looking to capture truly remarkable images.
The Camping Experience
+2 Many visitors enjoy rooftop camping or setting up tents with the stunning Lake Powell vistas as their backdrop. The sense of solitude and connection with nature is a major draw for those who choose to stay overnight. It's crucial to remember that this is a primitive camping area. There are no facilities whatsoever – no restrooms, no water, and no trash cans. The golden rule here is Leave No Trace: pack out everything you pack in, including all trash and food scraps.
While camping is generally safe, always practice good judgment. Inform someone of your travel plans, be aware of weather forecasts, and keep an eye out for local wildlife. The reward for this preparedness is an unforgettable night under the stars in one of the most unique landscapes imaginable.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit