Antelope Canyon
Antelope Canyon
Antelope Canyon is one of the most photographed slot canyons in the world, located on Navajo land near Page, Arizona. This natural wonder was formed by flash floods and erosion over thousands of years, creating smooth, flowing sandstone walls that change color throughout the day as sunlight filters through the narrow openings above.
The canyon is split into two sections: Upper Antelope Canyon (known as 'The Crack') and Lower Antelope Canyon (called 'The Corkscrew'). Both offer incredible views, but they have slightly different characteristics. The Upper Canyon is more accessible and famous for its light beams that shine down during midday in summer months, while the Lower Canyon requires some ladder climbing but rewards visitors with fewer crowds and equally stunning formations.
The Navajo name for Upper Antelope Canyon is 'Tsé bighánílíní,' which means 'the place where water runs through rocks.' The canyon holds deep cultural significance for the Navajo people, who manage tours through this sacred place. All visitors must be accompanied by authorized Navajo guides, who often share traditional stories and point out fascinating rock formations with names like 'The Lion' and 'The Heart.'
The colors inside range from deep reds and oranges to purples and blues, depending on the time of day and season. Photographers from around the world come to capture these ever-changing hues against the smooth, wave-like surfaces carved by centuries of water flow.
ratings
| Category | Rating | Your Rating |
|---|---|---|
| atmosphere |
|
|
| scenery |
|
|
| tourism |
|
|
Things to do in Antelope Canyon
-
Lower Antelope Canyon Tour
The Lower Antelope Canyon tour in Page, Arizona offers an extraordinary experience through one of nature's most striking landscapes. As you walk along narrow, winding passageways carved by water and wind over millions of years, sunlight filters through the sandstone walls. The shifting light creates a display of colors and shadows across the vibrant orange rock, giving the impression of moving through a natural work of art.
Guided by a Navajo tour leader, visitors gain insight into the canyon’s history and cultural significance. Along the way, the guide highlights unique rock formations and points out ideal locations for photographs. The opportunity to capture the beauty of the canyon is a memorable part of the visit, as every angle offers a new perspective.
The tour lasts about an hour and a half and includes steel ladders and tight passages that add a sense of adventure. Wearing closed-toe shoes and traveling light is recommended to move easily through the area. This journey through Lower Antelope Canyon is a remarkable experience that demonstrates the timeless power of nature's forces.
Powered by GetYourGuide -
Journey Through Upper Antelope Canyon
Upper Antelope Canyon is a photographer's dream come true. This narrow slot canyon near Page, Arizona is famous for its swirling sandstone walls and ethereal light beams that dance through the cavern. On this guided tour, you'll wind your way through the twisting passageways, marveling at the smooth, undulating rock formations sculpted by centuries of wind and water erosion.
As you explore, your Navajo guide will share fascinating insights about the canyon's geology and cultural significance to the local tribes. They'll also help you capture stunning photos, pointing out the best angles and adjusting your camera settings to bring out the rich colors and textures. The light is constantly shifting, creating new patterns and hues on the striated canyon walls.
While the hike itself is relatively easy, the visual impact is extraordinary. Beams of sunlight pierce through openings above, illuminating the dusty air and creating a mystical atmosphere. The silence is broken only by hushed whispers and the click of camera shutters as visitors try to capture the otherworldly beauty. This is truly a bucket list experience for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.
Powered by GetYourGuide -
Antelope Canyon X: Exploring Nature's Hidden Masterpiece
Antelope Canyon X is a true natural wonder that'll leave you speechless. This newer, less crowded section of Antelope Canyon offers a chance to experience the raw beauty of slot canyons without the usual tourist crowds. As you descend into the canyon, you're surrounded by towering walls of swirling sandstone, carved by millions of years of water and wind. The play of light and shadow creates an ever-changing canvas of orange, red, and purple hues that seem almost otherworldly.
Your guide will share fascinating insights about the canyon's formation and significance to the Navajo people. They'll point out unique features and help you capture stunning photos that do justice to this incredible place. The iconic 'X' shape that gives the canyon its name is a highlight, showcasing nature's artistic touch. Unlike its busier cousins, Canyon X offers a more intimate experience, allowing you to truly connect with the serene beauty of the landscape.
This 1.5-hour tour is perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike. While it's a bit shorter than some might prefer, it's packed with awe-inspiring sights that'll stick with you long after you've left. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on uneven terrain. And don't forget your camera – the light beams and rock formations here are simply unforgettable.
Powered by GetYourGuide -
Kayak and Hike Adventure in Antelope Canyon
This half-day boating and hiking tour offers a unique way to explore Lake Powell and the remarkable Antelope Canyon. The trip begins with a peaceful paddle across the lake’s calm, blue waters, framed by towering red rock cliffs. As you navigate into the narrow sections of the canyon, the sunlight reflects off the sandstone walls, creating a striking and colorful display.
After reaching the far end of the canyon by boat, the experience continues on foot with a scenic hike. The route leads through winding slot canyons shaped by millions of years of erosion. Along the way, there are many opportunities to pause and take in the dramatic rock formations before cooling off with a swim in the clear waters of the lake.
Suitable for all skill levels, this guided tour provides the necessary equipment and instruction for a smooth and enjoyable outing. Guides also share interesting insights about the area’s geology and cultural history. The combination of paddling, hiking, and swimming allows participants to experience Antelope Canyon and Lake Powell from a different and memorable perspective.
Powered by GetYourGuide -
Antelope Canyon Kayak and Hike Adventure
This Lake Powell kayaking trip offers an unforgettable journey through stunning red rock landscapes. Paddling through the main channel, you’ll be surrounded by towering cliffs, their sheer size even more impressive from the water. As you enter Antelope Canyon, the passage narrows, and sunlight casts intricate patterns on the sandstone walls, creating a mesmerizing display of colors and textures.
After kayaking deep into the canyon, the adventure continues with a hike through its winding passageways. Each turn reveals new rock formations, smoothed over millions of years by water erosion. Your guide provides fascinating insights into the canyon’s geology, making the experience both visually and intellectually engaging.
The trip ends with a refreshing swim in Lake Powell’s crystal-clear waters, a perfect way to cool off before the peaceful paddle back. Last glimpses of the towering canyon walls add to the experience, blending adventure, natural beauty, and geological discovery into a memorable four-hour excursion.
Powered by GetYourGuide -
Scenic Flight over Lake Powell
A scenic flight over Lake Powell and Antelope Canyon offers a remarkable opportunity to experience the vast and rugged beauty of the region from above. Flying high above the landscape provides a clear sense of the scale and unique formations that define this part of the Southwest.
As the plane travels over the deep blue waters of Lake Powell, passengers can view an intricate network of canyons and sandstone structures that appear almost otherworldly. The flight typically includes highlights such as Rainbow Bridge and Navajo Mountain, with the pilot offering insights about each landmark along the way.
From the air, the contrast between the water’s vibrant hues and the surrounding red rock creates striking patterns that are best appreciated from this elevated vantage point. Bringing a camera is recommended, as the views offer plenty of opportunities to capture the dramatic scenery that stretches across this vast desert landscape.
-
Sunset Photography at Horseshoe Bend
Just a stone's throw from Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend offers a jaw-dropping finale to your day of adventure. As the sun dips low in the sky, head out to this iconic viewpoint where the Colorado River makes a dramatic 270-degree turn.
Set up your tripod (or just find a comfy spot to sit) and watch as the fading light paints the canyon walls in warm hues of orange and red. The contrast between the deep blue-green of the river and the red rock is simply stunning. Don't rush off as soon as the sun disappears – some of the most magical moments happen during the afterglow when the sky turns purple and the first stars start to twinkle. Just be sure to bring a headlamp for the walk back to your car!
-
Scenic Drive to Antelope Canyon
Sometimes the journey is just as good as the destination, and that's definitely true for the drive to Antelope Canyon. Hit the road and enjoy a scenic route that'll have you reaching for your camera long before you arrive at the canyon itself. The drive takes you through some seriously stunning desert landscapes, with red rock formations and wide-open skies that'll make you feel like you're on another planet.
Along the way, you'll pass by some great viewpoints where you can stop and stretch your legs. Keep an eye out for Lake Powell in the distance - its blue waters provide a striking contrast to the red rocks. If you're lucky, you might even spot some wildlife like coyotes or eagles.
The drive is a perfect warm-up for what you'll see at Antelope Canyon. It gives you a sense of the vast, beautiful emptiness of this part of Arizona. Plus, it's a great opportunity to crank up some tunes and enjoy a classic American road trip experience. Just make sure you've got plenty of water and snacks, and don't forget to fill up on gas before you head out!
-
Glen Canyon Dam Tour
For a change of pace from natural wonders, check out the impressive Glen Canyon Dam. This massive concrete arch-gravity dam on the Colorado River is an engineering marvel that's well worth a visit.
Join a guided tour to get an inside look at how the dam works. You'll descend into the heart of the structure, feeling the vibration of the powerful turbines beneath your feet. The views from the top of the dam are pretty spectacular too – you can see for miles across Lake Powell on one side and down the Colorado River on the other. It's a great way to understand the region's water management and the impact of human engineering on this desert landscape.
-
Antelope Point Marina Boat Tour
After exploring the narrow passageways of Antelope Canyon, a boat tour on Lake Powell offers a relaxing change of pace. Departing from Antelope Point Marina, the tour takes you across calm, clear waters surrounded by towering red rock cliffs and secluded coves.
As the boat moves along the shoreline, you may have the opportunity to visit remote beaches and hidden slot canyons that are only accessible by water. Wildlife is often spotted along the way, including bighorn sheep and golden eagles. The vivid contrast between the deep blue lake and the surrounding sandstone formations creates an ideal setting for photography. Some tours also allow time for swimming in the refreshing waters of the lake.
Where to stay in Antelope Canyon
Best hotels in Antelope Canyon:
-
Country Inn & Suites (luxury hotel)
Country Inn & Suites in Page, Arizona is a great spot for exploring Antelope Canyon and the surrounding area. The hotel has a prime location just a few miles from the famous slot canyon, making it super convenient for sightseeing. The rooms are spacious and comfy, with all the usual amenities you'd expect like free WiFi, mini-fridges, and coffee makers.
One of the best things about this place is all the extra perks. There's an indoor pool and hot tub that are perfect for relaxing after a day of hiking. The free breakfast is pretty solid too, with plenty of hot and cold options to fuel up before heading out. The staff are friendly and helpful with local recommendations. Overall, it's a reliable choice if you're looking for a comfortable home base while checking out Page and Antelope Canyon.
-
Wingate (medium range hotel)
Wingate by Wyndham Page Lake Powell is a great spot for exploring the stunning landscapes around Page, Arizona.
The rooms are spacious and bright, with comfy beds and all the amenities you need for a relaxing stay. I really liked the indoor pool and hot tub - perfect for unwinding after a day of hiking or sightseeing. The free breakfast buffet in the morning is a nice perk too, with plenty of hot and cold options to fuel up for adventures.
Location-wise, it's hard to beat. You're close to major attractions like Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon, plus there are restaurants within walking distance. The staff are friendly and helpful with local tips. Overall, it's a solid, comfortable base for experiencing the natural wonders of the Page area without breaking the bank.