Re: Lake Powell trip
Ending June this year I lived in Page the previous 13 months. The lake is the attraction and the people will come no matter what and the town is so isolated that there is no competition. All that adds up to little motivation to maintain the properties. Because of the economy everyone is hurting. This is a good opportunity for bargains. Don't settle for the first price they offer.
However, the Best Western Arizona Inn recently finished some remodeling. The Days Inn down by the mall (Wal-Mart) is a good bargain too. ($65/night double occupancy) I got the Days Inn down to $35/night all fees and tax inclusive. The BW AZ Inn honors many corp and other discounts so check what you can get before you go. There are two BW, facing each other. The AZ Inn is on the north side of LP Blvd. I forget the name, but the steak house across the street is a good deal. Corner of Vista and LP Blvd.
The Castle Rock cut is now at 3610' and this year opened in early March. It is projected to stay open the rest of the year. 2008 was the first year the cut was opened in about 10 yrs. Last yr lake level ended above previous years so 2009 began a bit higher than other years.
With the cut open Wawheap marina is the better choice over Antelope Point. It's less than 3 miles from Page to the ramp. I had the seasonal pass for park access so I'm not sure the day rate. I think it begins at $5 then adds up if you have pets, multiple vehicles, etc.
Hogwash about the 'dangerous' narrows. I know what you're saying but never had I seen or heard that it could be so bad. Like anywhere, use your seaman skills. The only prob I could think of is if you are in a small boat with low freeboard and a badass engine weighing you down. Even then it would be not paying attention or just dumb luck which did you in. The annoyance of transiting the narrows is the no wake zone at Antelope Point marina. It's aggravatingly long.
Quagga Mussels are a threat to Lake Powell. As owner, it is your responsibility to have your boat clean.
http://www.lakepowell.org/qmfacts.pdf
The best chart for the lake I've seen is the one produced by the late Stan Jones. They are for sale just about everywhere. God help you if you should need mechanical repairs in Page. My experience with just about every shop in town leaves a very bitter taste in my mouth. Even still expect upwards of $100/hr shop rates for unsatisfactory service. Rick at H2O Watersports on 6th St is the ONLY guy I trust. He's a straight shooter, honest, and dependable.
The Dam Bar & Grill has a very fine menu. The wait staff often is lacking but the seating is boothes, at the bar, or the outside porch. Outside is smoking so beware. The Blue Bhudda is suishi and behind the Dam Bar. Strombolli's is a good restaurant too. Ken's Old West...eh. It aint the big city so don't expect that.
) and split the costs.
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