We are planning to visit Lake Powell to see Rainbow Bridge. The question is whether to take the tour boat from Wahweap or rent a speed boat and do it on our own. There will be 4 of us including our 2 girls ages 7 & 10.

I took the boat tour from Wahweap, and while the scenery is impressive, it gets a bit boring on the way back, just sitting and watching. I wished we had our own speedboat so that we could do some swimming along the way, as it was very hot. However, it does not seem to me that the dock for Rainbow Bridge is all that easy to find on your own. I suppose you would get a map when you rented the boat, but as a completely inexperienced sailor, I'm not sure I would have been successful. I took the 1/2 day tour. If you choose that, I would suggest you bring some snacks along for the kids - I was starving by the end of the trip.

Rent the boat!!!! Make sure it has a bimmini to keep you from geting fried.The chart for the lake is very easy to follow.All the bouys are numbered so you can verify your locations.Being able to explore the different canyons and swimming when you feel like it is well worth cost of gas and rental.

I totally agree with Tommy. The ride back was indeed boring!

If you're renting a boat in the Lake Powell area between now and the end of October, you might want to check http://www.aramarkparks.com/wearguard/ .