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Lake Powell is the second largest artificial lake in the country, and has over 1,900 miles of shoreline, coves, bays and virtually private beaches. The only way to get around the lake is by boat, and the easiest way to explore the rugged, remote country around it is by hiking. The 1.25-million acre recreation area stretches for hundreds of miles, encompassing scenic vistas, geologic wonders, and a panorama of human history.

Glen Canyon was sacrificed to create Lake Powell, and the controversy surrounding the dam's construction contributed to the birth of the modern environmental movement. The city of Page overlooks the lake. Nearby are Rainbow Bridge National Monument and other scenic wonders. Unbelievably beautiful Antelope Canyon is three miles to the east.

Much of far northeast of Arizona is barren and not particularly scenic, with wide empty valleys interspersed with low, scrub-covered mesas. Three of these, named the First Mesa, Second Mesa, and Third Mesa, are in the center of Hopi Indian territory, although most of the northeast is the Lake Powell Navajo Indian Reservation, and the people still inhabit and cultivate the valley floor. Chinle is the largest town in the area and the gateway to Canyon de Chelly National Monument. Although this canyon is not as spectacular as others, it does have sheer walls rising up to 1000 feet with many scenic overlooks, several well-preserved Anasazi ruins Just east of the town, the muddy, seasonal Chinle Wash enters the canyon. The walls rise sharply, allowing only one entrance for vehicles. A sandy track leads to the scattered settlements and ancient ruins. All visiting vehicles must be accompanied by a guide.