How to Get to Lake Powell from New York [2025 Guide] ✈️🚗🚌

Lake Powell, a breathtaking reservoir on the Colorado River straddling the border of Utah and Arizona, is one of the most spectacular water-based destinations in the U.S. In 2025, travelers from New York City have multiple options to reach this stunning desert oasis—ranging from quick flights with rental cars to road trip adventures. This guide breaks down all available transportation options, helping you plan your journey smoothly and efficiently.

✈️ By Air – Fastest Way to Reach Lake Powell from NYC

There are no direct flights from New York to Lake Powell. The fastest way is to fly into Page Municipal Airport (PGA) in Arizona or nearby major airports and then drive.

Best Flight Routes (2025):

• JFK/EWR/LGA → Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) – then a 4.5-hour drive to Page, AZ.
• JFK/EWR/LGA → Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) – then a 4.5-hour drive.
• JFK/EWR/LGA → Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) – then a 6-hour drive.
• Connecting flights from PHX to Page Municipal Airport (PGA) via Contour Airlines.

Flight Time: NYC to PHX/LAS/SLC ~5 hrs nonstop; NYC to PGA ~7–8 hrs with layovers.
Average Cost (2025): $220–$450 round trip when booked in advance.

🚗 By Car – Scenic Road Trip Experience

If you love road trips, driving from New York to Lake Powell is a cross-country adventure covering diverse landscapes—from the rolling hills of Pennsylvania to the desert plateaus of Utah and Arizona.

Driving Distance: ~2,300 miles (~3,700 km).
Driving Time: ~36–38 hrs without long stops.
Recommended Route:

• I-80 W through Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Nebraska.
• Merge onto I-70 W toward Utah, then US-191 S and US-89 S to Page, AZ.

Tolls: Expect $100–$120 in tolls.
Tip: Break the trip into 5–6 days to enjoy stops like Denver, Arches National Park, and Monument Valley.

🚌 By Bus – Budget Option

There are no direct buses to Lake Powell, but you can combine bus and car rental.

How to Do It:

1. Take Greyhound or FlixBus from NYC to Phoenix or Las Vegas.
2. Rent a car from either city and drive to Page, AZ.

Time: ~2–3 days total travel.
Cost: $180–$250 for bus + $50–$80/day car rental.

🚄 By Train – Amtrak Plus Drive

Although Amtrak doesn’t serve Page, AZ directly, you can combine train and car travel.

Options:

• NYC → Flagstaff, AZ (via Amtrak’s Southwest Chief route, ~2 days).
• Rent a car in Flagstaff and drive 2.5 hrs to Lake Powell.

Cost: $220–$450 for coach seats; $600+ for sleeper cars.
Scenic Highlight: The Southwest Chief offers stunning views of the American West.

📅 Best Time to Visit Lake Powell

• Spring (April–June): Mild weather, perfect for boating and hiking.
• Summer (July–August): Warm waters but hot daytime temps.
• Fall (September–October): Fewer crowds, pleasant temperatures.
• Winter (November–March): Quiet, but some services may be limited.

🧳 Travel Tips for 2025

• National Park Fees: Lake Powell is part of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area ($30 per vehicle, valid 7 days).
• Car Rentals: Book early during summer peak season.
• Boating Permits: Required for motorized boats; check NPS website for details.

📌 FAQs

Q: What’s the fastest way to get to Lake Powell from New York?
Fly from NYC to Phoenix, Las Vegas, or Salt Lake City, then drive 4–6 hours to Page, AZ.

Q: Is there a direct flight from New York to Lake Powell?
No. The closest you can get by air is Phoenix, Las Vegas, or Salt Lake City, with a connecting flight or drive to Page.

Q: How far is Lake Powell from Phoenix?
About 280 miles, or roughly a 4.5-hour drive.

Q: Can you take a train from NYC to Lake Powell?
Not directly. You can take Amtrak to Flagstaff, AZ, and then drive 2.5 hours to Page.

Q: What’s the cheapest way to get from NYC to Lake Powell?
A bus to Phoenix or Las Vegas combined with a rental car is the most budget-friendly option.

🧭 Final Thoughts

Reaching Lake Powell from New York in 2025 requires at least one flight connection or a combination of travel modes, but the journey is worth it. Whether you choose the speed of flying, the freedom of a road trip, or the budget-friendliness of bus travel, you’ll be rewarded with one of America’s most iconic landscapes. With its turquoise waters framed by red rock canyons, Lake Powell is a must-visit for boating, kayaking, and hiking enthusiasts.

🔗 Trusted Sources

• Amtrak Official Website
• Greyhound Bus Lines
• National Park Service – Glen Canyon NRA