One question we hear all the time is, “Where’s the best place to wakesurf?” Though we each have our own go-to spots, there’s one destination our team just can’t quit: Lake Powell. Our founders—myself included—have been coming to this breathtaking reservoir for nearly two decades, and it still tops our list of favorite places in the world.

We’re kicking off our new 2025 Destination Spotlight Series by featuring some of the most incredible wakesurfing locations on the planet. And what better place to start than with Lake Powell? Below, you’ll find out exactly why it’s such a unique spot to ride, plus our tried-and-true tips from countless trips.

Why Lake Powell Stands Out

Lake Powell hugs the border of Arizona and Utah, created by the Glen Canyon Dam along the Colorado River. With hundreds of miles of shoreline, there’s no shortage of hidden coves or winding channels to explore. Everywhere you look, the iconic red rock cliffs frame the water, creating a surreal desert oasis.

The lake’s massive surface area is a big advantage for wakesurfers—no matter how busy it gets, you can almost always find those coveted glassy stretches. Whether you’re an early-bird chasing dawn sessions or more of a “golden hour” sunset surfer, the dramatic canyon backdrop makes every ride feel epic.

Fun Fact: After all these years, we still manage to stumble upon new canyons or uncharted coves every time we come. That’s the beauty of a place as expansive and dynamic as Lake Powell.

Best Times to Visit

Spring (March–May)

Spring at Powell is a welcome relief from winter’s chill. The water warms up, the desert blooms, and the crowds are thinner—though you might encounter surprise winds or rain. If you’re okay with slightly cooler water, you’ll love the calmer vibe.

Summer (June–August)

Summer is prime time. The water’s warm, the sun is high, and boat ramps can get busy—especially on weekends. If you’re not one for crowds, head out early in the morning or stick around for evening sessions. But let’s be honest, there’s a reason it’s peak season: it’s hot, it’s fun, and the lake feels alive.

Fall (September–October)

Come fall, the lake cools down a little, the crowds thin out, and the water stays pleasantly warm. It’s our personal favorite if you enjoy a laid-back atmosphere without sacrificing good conditions.

Pro Tip: Be sure to monitor water levels before you go. Changes in rainfall and snowmelt can impact ramp access—and occasionally open up (or hide) new coves for exploring.

Navigating the Lake & Launch Points

Main Marinas

• Wahweap Marina (near Page, AZ): Probably the most popular launch site, partly because it’s fairly accessible from Phoenix. You’ll find lots of services here, including boat rentals and a store for last-minute supplies.

• Antelope Point Marina: Perfect if you want to be close to Antelope Canyon. They offer a restaurant right on the water and convenient boat rentals.

• Bullfrog & Halls Crossing (Utah side): More remote, but that means smaller crowds. Bullfrog is the second-largest marina on Powell, though it’s a longer drive from major cities, so plan accordingly.

Services & Permits

You’ll find full-service rental shops, fuel docks, and slip rentals at most major marinas. Don’t forget your park entry fee for the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, and be prepared for invasive species checks (quagga mussels, etc.) on your boat.

Wakesurf Considerations

Lake Powell’s narrow side canyons are prime for finding calm water—just remember to keep an eye on your GPS and watch for rock formations, especially if water levels are low. Mornings and evenings tend to have less traffic, so that’s when you’ll get those pristine, unruffled surfaces.

Houseboat vs. Day Trips

• Houseboat Life: If you can swing it, living on a houseboat at Lake Powell is the ultimate experience. You can drop anchor in secluded coves and wake up to tranquil water each morning, ready to ride without ever packing up your gear.

• Day Trip: Short on time? No problem. Launch from a marina for a day of surfing, then head back to a local hotel in the evening.

Safety Tips

• Submerged Rocks: Lake Powell’s levels can change from day to day, and submerged rock formations can appear out of nowhere—stay alert!

• Summer Storms: Keep a weather app handy. Desert storms can blow in quickly, bringing strong winds and choppy conditions.

Lodging & Amenities

Marina-Based Hotels

If you want to roll out of bed and straight onto your boat, several marinas have on-site hotels or lodges. It doesn’t get much more convenient than that.

Houseboat Rentals

For a lot of us, renting (or owning) a houseboat is the quintessential Lake Powell experience. It gives you 24/7 access to the lake—your own floating basecamp for surfing, fishing, or just chilling on deck under the stars.

Camping

If you’re up for a bit of rustic adventure, consider shoreline camping (you’ll need a boat to haul your gear to a secluded beach), or snag a spot at one of the established campgrounds near each marina.

Wakesurfing Bliss

After nearly two decades of making annual pilgrimages here, Lake Powell still feels like new territory every time we visit. The interplay of red rock cliffs and turquoise water never gets old, and we love the chance to chase hidden canyons in search of perfect waves.

This post marks the beginning of our Wakesurfing Destination Spotlight series. Stay tuned for more deep dives into some of the world’s best wakesurf spots—from alpine lakes with crystal-clear water to tropical coasts with year-round sunshine. Our hope is to spark your next adventure, wherever that might be.

See you on the water!