Hello, adventure enthusiasts! This is Trailblazer Tina from Outdoor News AZ, and today, we’re diving into the mystical beauty of Antelope Canyon, right here in Page, Arizona. Prepare to be mesmerized by one of the most photographed and awe-inspiring slot canyons in the world. Let’s embark on a journey through these magical passageways where every twist and turn reveals a new wonder.
Antelope Canyon is a natural marvel, renowned for its stunning light beams and narrow, winding passageways. Split into two sections—Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon—each offers a unique and enchanting experience. As you wander through the canyon, you’ll be captivated by the intricate patterns carved into the sandstone walls over thousands of years by flash flooding and erosion.
Antelope Canyon is located just a few miles east of Page, Arizona. To visit, you’ll need to book a guided tour, as the canyon is situated on Navajo land and access is restricted to protect its fragile environment. Several tour companies in Page offer guided tours that include transportation to and from the canyon.
Your adventure begins with a short ride from Page to the canyon entrance. As you step inside, the temperature drops and you’re enveloped in a cool, serene atmosphere. The narrow walls rise high above, creating a labyrinth of light and shadow that shifts with the sun. Upper Antelope Canyon is famous for its dramatic light beams, best seen around midday, while Lower Antelope Canyon offers a more adventurous trek with ladders and narrow passages.
For the best experience, visit Upper Antelope Canyon between 10 a.m. and noon to catch the iconic light beams. If you prefer a quieter, more intimate experience, consider visiting Lower Antelope Canyon in the early morning or late afternoon.
While the tours are guided, it’s important to follow all safety instructions provided by your guide. The canyon can be slippery and narrow, so wear sturdy shoes with good traction. Always stay with your group and respect the delicate environment by not touching the walls or leaving any trash behind.
Antelope Canyon is a photographer’s paradise. Bring a camera with a wide-angle lens to capture the sweeping curves and towering walls. A tripod can help stabilize your shots in the low light conditions. Adjust your settings to capture the vibrant colors and contrasts within the canyon. And remember, the best shots often come from creative angles.
Antelope Canyon is a sacred site for the Navajo people, and it’s crucial to treat it with respect. Practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out everything you bring in and staying on designated paths. Your respect and care help preserve this beautiful place for future generations.
I’ll never forget my first visit to Antelope Canyon. The way the light danced across the walls and the quiet beauty of the place left a lasting impression on me. It felt like stepping into another world, a hidden gem that revealed the artistry of nature. Antelope Canyon is more than just a destination—it’s an experience that stays with you long after you’ve left. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, this incredible slot canyon will captivate your heart and soul.
Upper vs Lower Antelope Canyon
You can’t go wrong no matter which you choose, but there are some key differences to keep in mind when choosing Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon.
Upper Antelope Canyon is the more popular of the two, because it’s a shorter trek (about 100 yards) and easily walkable by most tourists of all ages. In addition to the shorter distance, it is an easier hike, because you are entering the slot canyons at ground level. Local tour operators took advantage of the Covid 19 shutdown to make great improvements to the area, including a network of steps and runways over the ridge adjacent to the parking area. This resulted in less ‘bottlenecks’ when exiting the Upper Canyon on the 230-30 minute walk back to the parking area.
Lower Antelope Canyon requires more stamina than the Upper Antelope Canyon, with a longer hike time to get to the canyons, and includes ladders and stairways to venture into the amazing rock formations. Lower Antelope Canyon is not recommended for anybody with mobility, joint or strength issues. Unlike the Upper Canyon, where the walk is above ground, the Lower Canyon is more of a V shaped configuration, is below ground, and you have to go down the equivalent of 3-4 flights of stairs on the approximately 650 yard walk. In addition, you will make your way over and around boulders, use ladders, AND then experience a very steep incline when exiting the canyon.
Tour operators strongly recommend you watch this full video walk-through of Lower Antelope Canyon before booking this tour.
Visiting Antelope Canyon
As we mentioned before, Antelope Canyon is part of the Navajo Nation and the only way to visit is by choosing one of the licensed businesses that provide guided tours. Upper Antelope Canyon has five licensed, Navajo-owned companies that offer tours to it, three who meet at the Tribal Park entrance on US98, and two that offer round-trip transportation from downtown Page, AZ. Visitors are then driven 2 miles via a dirt track from the Tribal Park entrance to the mouth of the canyon. For Lower Antelope Canyon, visitors must meet at the headquarters of one of the two licensed companies that manage it, and take a short walk to the entrance of the canyon under a shaded canopy. Tour Durations are approximately 1-1 1/2 hours, depending on which section you chose.
Safety, Kids and What to Bring
Whether you choose Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon, you must be prepared to walk long distances with no shade, no water, and in areas of deep sand. Strollers are not allowed in the canyon, so be prepared to carry young children who find themselves unable to complete the walk. Always carry enough water for everyone in your group, wear sunscreen, protective clothing including wide brimmed hats, and choose comfortable shoes.
Tour operators have different restrictions on what is allowed on the tour, so always read the full description. Links to the licensed Tour Operators for Antelope Canyon are included on this page.
Thanks for joining me on this journey. For more detailed guides and interactive features, visit our website. Live the adventure, love the adventure, with Outdoor News AZ. Leave a comment below sharing your experiences at Antelope Canyon. Your stories and tips can help fellow adventurers plan their trips. Your adventure starts here with Outdoor News AZ.
