Page is an outdoor haven just off the shores of Lake Powell
Page began as a temporary housing community for construction workers, later transforming into a major tourist hub just south of Lake Powell. “You live here because you want to live here, not because you have to,” says Stever Kirchner, owner and broker at Atsah-Eagle Realty with more than 15 years of experience. Surrounded by scenic canyons, waterfront recreation, and hiking trails, the unique landscapes draw millions annually. “It’s very transient,” Kirchner says. The town itself is made up of a mix of manufactured and single-family homes, mixed in with hotels and vacation rentals. Though industry is minimal, the nearby Walmart and other shops ensure locals have access to the essentials.
Waterfront recreation and hiking with canyon views
Kirchner says that tourism is a year-round industry in Page, but that there's a slight peak in the summertime. The local tourism is centered around Lake Powell, an expansive manmade reservoir with over 2,000 miles of shoreline surrounded by canyons. With no shortage of space, locals and visitors can rent watercrafts and kayaks at a nearby marina or visit one of the lake’s sand beaches for swimming and water skiing. Hiking and biking trails all throughout the region offer views of Antelope Canyon, Glen Canyon and other geological sites like Horseshoe Bend. Rim Trail encircles the town, spanning about 10 miles. John C Memorial Park is centrally located at the center of town, making it the main community gathering place with a skate park and playground. Page Sports Complex hosts youth sports leagues with soccer and baseball fields, and the Desert Vista Disc Golf Course has a nine-hole layout. The 18-hole Lake Powell National Golf Course is open to the public and surrounded by panoramic views.
Mostly manufactured and ranch-style homes
Minimal traditional ranch-style properties and manufactured homes make up much of the local housing inventory, often on narrow lots. Short-term and long-term rentals have a strong presence in the market, and properties don’t go up for sale often. In recent years, only two properties have been sold at prices around $100,000 to $150,000. Additionally, many lots have been made available for new construction, selling at around $60,000 for a quarter-acre.
Annual events include Fourth of July fireworks and Balloon Regatta
Page hosts many festivals and events throughout the year, including a Fourth of July celebration with a community parade, pie-eating contest and other games at John C. Memorial Park. The day ends with a fireworks showcase at Lake Powell Golf Course. At the end of October, folks come from around the region to witness the Balloon Regatta, a large-scale hot air balloon festival. In addition to the spectacle, the event includes a three-day street fair with live music and craft vendors.
A few national chains and lots of local restaurants
Page Plaza, an outdoor mall in the center of town, is anchored by a Safeway and Dollar Tree, otherwise populated with lots of restaurants, clothing shops and a few bars. The locally owned Big John Texas Barbeque began as a pop-up food stand at local festivals before opening a brick-and-mortar location in what used to be a gas station. State 48 Tavern is another local favorite, serving American fare and craft beer. There’s also a Walmart in town, located next to the highway. “Everything you need is at Walmart and everything you want is a couple days away by UPS,” Kirchner says. “You just got to plan ahead, that’s all.”
Connected to the surrounding region via Route 89
Page is located just outside the Navajo Nation and the Arizona-Utah border. Flagstaff is the nearest major city, about 130 miles south on Route 89. Express, the local public transit organization, operates five local bus lines, some connecting with neighboring areas like the village of Greenhaven. Page Hospital serves the community, and Flagstaff Pulliam Airport is about 135 miles away. Page Municipal Airport has connections to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.
Local public schools score in the C and B range
Students attend the Page Early Childhood Learning Center for prekindergarten, kindergarten and first grade. Lake View Elementary serves second through sixth grade and earns a B-plus from Niche, while Page Middle earns a C. The C-plus-rated Page High offers classes in the Navajo language, welding and graphic design.