Antelope Canyon
Just 7 Miles from Horseshoe Bend
You wouldn’t come all this way and only see one of the Natural Beauties that Northern Arizona has to offer would you? Find out why Antelope Canyon has become one of the most photographed slot canyons in the world. Known for their incredible rock formations, colors and lights there is something wonderful waiting for you no matter which canyon you choose.
Please keep in mind that unlike Horseshoe bend ANY of the Antelope Canyon Tours require a guide! Demand is high and availability is low. The odds that you can walk up and get the tour you want is quite low. Make sure you book in advance to get the Tours you want.
Antelope Canyon Bundle Deals - The Best way to experience the Canyons!
Starting at $149
Starting at $119.00
Starting at $109.00
Benefits of a Bundle Deal…
#1 – All inclusive booking price. Don’t get caught with hidden fee’s!
#2 – When you purchase a boat tour combo your Park Entry fees is reduced from $37.00 to $2.00! Just show your Vouchers.
#3 – Our service does all of the work finding any possible booking combination and times. Saving you valuable time.
#4 – Our bundle deals take into consideration how far you have to travel and how long you may have to wait to enter the Park or add time for lunches.
#5 – Many times bundle deals are available when stand alone Tours are not!
Lower Antelope Canyon
Lower Antelope Canyon is an excellent section of the canyon. The tours travel in one direction, making it slightly easier to get photographs of the canyon with less people in it.
It has some dramatic stairs, ladders, and narrow sections. This makes for some great shots, but be aware that everybody in your party needs to be able to comfortably climb a steep stairwell.
With multiple departures a day, your tour will last about 1.5-2 hours and your guide will tell you about the history of the canyon, point out particular points of interest, and make sure your experience is enjoyable, fun, and safe.
You can tour this canyon as a stand alone tour, or you can combine it with Antelope Canyon Boat tour, or see both upper and lower canyon to get the most out of your visit.
Upper Antelope Canyon
Upper Antelope Canyon is the most accessible part of Antelope Canyon. It has no stairs or ladders. It is also only a short walk, making it ideal for those with very young children or anybody with mobility issues.
This tour has become extremely popular, and often sells out months in advance. You are best to make advance reservations as soon as you know what dates you will be in the area.
Upper Antelope Canyon tours book on our site are in enclosed vehicles, making them safe and comfortable.
You can book this tour by itself, or in a combo with Lower Antelope Canyon or Antelope Canyon by Boat for a more efficient visit.
No matter which canyon you choose, you are in for an unforgettable experience!
Antelope Canyon by Boat
Lake Powell as been a regional attraction for decades, but has only recently seen renewed interest with the rapid growth of Antelope Canyon.
As Antelope Canyon widens as it approaches Lake Powell, it eventually turns into a side canyon with boat access.
While Antelope Point Marina is worthy of a visit itself, the highlight for the curious visitor is the boat tour that brings you up Antelope Canyon from the water side.
Most tours take about an hour, and you will experience Antelope Canyon from a completely different perspective, while also getting a taste of the soaring cliffs of Lake Powell.
Water is included with this tour.
Starting at $149.00
Starting at $119.00
Starting at $109.00
Comments Section
Many Options, not much availability
Much like Horseshoe bend, once a hidden beauty Antelope Canyon and all of its natural beauty has been discovered and has become one of the most photographed canyons in the world! Antelope Canyon has many tour operators that will bring you to the canyon. We’ve provided links to the ones that have online reservations below. If you want to check out general information about Antelope Canyon and a full list of operators, check out the website AntelopeCanyon.az
Lower Antelope Canyon and Antelope Boat Tour on Lake Powell
For the vast majority of visitors to the area, a great option is the Antelope Canyon / Lake Powell boat tour package. Combined with your visit to Horseshoe Bend, this hits the major highlights of the area in a time efficient manner.
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Antelope Slot Canyon Jeep Tour
Antelope Canyon is one of the most photographed areas in the world. There are three separate areas that are publicly accessible. The Upper Canyon is the most famous and easiest to do.
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The Lower Canyon requires more physical ability, but you will be rewarded with significantly less crowds. You can also visit Antelope Canyon on Lake Powell, which is where the run-off from the upper areas will drain off into. Each has its own unique personality and are well worth checking out.
Antelope Slot Canyon Boat Tour
Tour Duration: 1 hour
Departure Times: 9:00 am, 10:15 am, 11:30am, 1:15pm, 2:30pm, 3:45pm, 5:00pm
$24.95 Ages 9 and Up, $14.95 Ages 4 – 12, Free Ages 3 and Under
Explore the Lake Powell side of world-famous Antelope Canyon – perhaps one of the most photographed slot canyons on Earth. This personalized tour takes you from Antelope Point Marina down lake along the Colorado River’s original channel to the canyon opening along sheer red rock cliffs. Safely navigable, the narrow canyon – with towering walls of ancient Navajo sandstone – is awe-inspiring and unique.
Your experienced tour guides will share details about spectacular Lake Powell, the nearby Glen Canyon Dam and the Navajo people that inhabit this region – sharing their rich culture and generations of history with visitors. Bottled water is provided on all tours.
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128 Responses
Hi! I understand no one knows when Antelope Canyon may reopen, but do you know where to look for the news? If it should open in time for our planned vacation in August, I’d like to try to be on top of the news so that I can get a reservation. Thanks for any advice!
Hey Nick,
To monitor the status of the Antelope Canyons, I would recommend monitoring the official website of the Navajo Nation Parks & Recreation Department at https://navajonationparks.org/ You might also hop over to our companion site, http://www.AntelopeCanyon.AZ and request placement on our priority e-mail list so we may notify you the minute official word comes down of the Antelope Canyons (and other Tribal Parks) reopening!
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂
I would like to visit Horse shoe bend and Antelope Canyon with my family in July. Is there a way to schedule to a visit to one or both locations one afternoon?
FYI – we have all been vaccinated.
Hey Perry,
Theoretically, it is possible to visit both Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend in one afternoon, but in reality, it might not work out.
At present, the Antelope Canyons are closed to tours due to COVID-19, and we have no idea when they might reopen. Horseshoe Bend has stayed open throughout the pandemic.
A good alternate to Antelope Canyon hiking tours is to visit Wire Pass Canyon and Buckskin Gulch near Paria, UT. This is a relatively easy hike, as you can see from this video of a young family visiting it, plus the Paria Rim Rocks/Toadstool Hoodoos Trail. A permit or guided tour is not required, you need only pay the $6/person day use fee via Recreation.gov. The only potential “wrinkle” is that the Wire Pass Trailhead is located down the House Rock Valley Road, an unpaved road which is usually passable for 2WD vehicles, except when it’s wet. Then, you’d want to give it a miss unless the prospect of getting stuck in slippery red clay sounds like fun *sarcasm*
One additional note: in July, weather in Page, AZ, is going to be VERY hot. At that time of year, we recommend visiting Horseshoe Bend, and doing any other labor-intensive activities, early in the morning. That way, you can enjoy cooler temperatures and usually smaller crowds. Whatever you decide, be sure you are carrying enough food and water for all members of your party.
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂
We are going to be in Flagstaff AZ in second week of June. Any chance the Upper Canyon tours would open by then?
Hi Krishna,
So sorry to report that we have no information on when the Antelope Canyons might reopen. Alternatives you may wish to consider are:
– Kayak tours of the waterside of Antelope Canyon that also include some hiking into the pre-slot portion of the lower canyon, which is in Federal and not Tribal land
– hiking in Wire Pass Canyon and/or Buckskin Gulch near Paria, UT, which can be done with or without a guide; note that the trailhead to these canyons is located down the unpaved House Rock Valley Road, which can be rendered impassable after rain or snow events
– guided tour of Red Canyon, aka Peek-A-Boo Canyon near Kanab, UT; while a guided tour is not required by law, they are very strongly recommended due to the main access road being very sandy and difficult to navigate for those without prior 4WD experience. For a list of tour guides, visit our companion site http://www.TheWaveAZ.com: Hire A Guide
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂
Can someone please let us know an approximate time of re-opening the upper and lower canyon ? Will it be a date in May or June 2021? We planed our trip on last week of May and hoping for the best 🙂 Thanks!
Hi Nalinda,
Unfortunately we don’t know when the Upper and Lower Antelope Canyons will re-open. That is entirely up to the Navajo Indian Tribe, who have been affected in disproportionately high numbers by COVID-19. I would recommend moving any “Plan B” options, such as kayak tours to the waterside of Antelope Canyon, to “Plan A” status. Another option is to hop over to our companion site, http://www.AntelopeCanyon.AZ and ask to be placed on a priority e-mail list to be notified the minute the Antelope Canyons are reopened!
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂
Hello I’m trying to book a tour.
Can someone please reach out to me with availability
Hi Renee,
I’m so sorry to have to tell you that the Antelope Canyons are closed to tourism indefinitely due to COVID-19 🙁
If you still wish to tour a slot canyon during your visit to Page, AZ, you might consider touring Red Canyon/aka Peek-A-Boo Canyon. This family-friendly slot canyon is located near Kanab, UT, approximately 90 minutes from Page, AZ. With twists and turns on par with the Antelope Canyons, this short but memorable walk features classic slot canyon scenery (including the occasional light beams in the summertime), as well as some unique features such as ancient “moqui” steps, and “Shaman’s Needle,” a pencil-thin stone column located in a small sub-drainage near the canyon’s entrance. While a guided tour is not required to get to Peek-A-Boo, we strongly recommend that you consider taking one, because while the walk through the canyon itself is usually not difficult, the drive to get there definitely is; lots of people get stuck out there, even those with prior experience with 4WD-ing. Tour companies that go to Peek-A-Boo Canyon are:
– Dreamland Safari Tours, (435) 412-1790, http://www.dreamlandtours.net
– TC Tours, (435) 668-5262, http://www.slotcanyontourskanab.com
– Kanab Tour Company, (435) 644-5525, http://www.kanabtourcompany.com
– Forever Adventure Tours, 435-644-5700, http://www.foreveradventuretours.com
– Grand Circle Tours, (928) 691-0166, http://www.vermilioncliffs.net
For other suggestions, check out this piece on our companion site http://www.AntelopeCanyon.AZ: Help! My Tour Got Cancelled
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂
Hi, can I get any update on reopening of Antelope Canyon? We have plans to visit in 1st week of April 2021. Thanks!
Hi Jing,
We remain uncertain as to the re-opening date of the Antelope Canyons. I would recommend monitoring the official website of the Navajo Nation Parks & Recreation Department, and visiting our companion site, http://www.AntelopeCanyon.AZ to sign up for a priority e-mail list so you can be notified the minute the good news comes down the wire.
Sorry I can’t be more helpful than that 🙁
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley
I was seeing if there was any update to Antelope Canyon being open after August 30th? I’m looking to go the end of September.
Hi Brianna,
The best site to monitor for the status of the Antelope Canyons, Monument Valley, and other Navajo Indian Tribal Parks is Navajo Nation Parks & Recreation (NavajoNationParks.org) On our companion site, http://www.AntelopeCanyon.AZ, you can also sign up to be on a priority e-mail list and be notified immediately upon the reopening of the Antelope Canyons. Should Antelope Canyon’s closure be extended to coincide with the date of your visit, you might also refer to AntelopeCanyon.AZ for suggestions of alternate slot canyons not subject to the closure of Navajo Indian Tribal Lands. AntelopeCanyon.AZ: Help! My Antelope Canyon Tour Got Cancelled
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂
Hi,
If I’m in page, az how long would I have to travel to get to horseshoe bend and through what route?
Hi Karla,
From downtown Page, AZ, it takes ~15 minutes to get to Horseshoe Bend. You would get on US89 South, then follow the signs to the parking lot. It’s really easy to find, very well-signed.
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂
Any word on when it will open back up?😭
Hi Jess,
The closure of Navajo Nation Tribal Parks has been extended through July 27th at the earliest. In the event the Antelope Canyons do not reopen by the time you get ready to travel, you might start thinking about alternatives. Popular options are Red Canyon, aka Peek-A-Boo Canyon near Kanab, UT, and the Wire Pass Canyon between Page, AZ, and Kanab, UT.
Wire Pass Canyon is a photogenic two-part slot canyon that is short enough for intermediate-level hikers to enjoy, yet offers the option to delve further into Buckskin Gulch for those wanting more of a challenge. The walk to the entrance of the initial slot is via a typically dry streambed, which typically is through deep sand. An 8-10’ drop a short distance into the slot canyon is one reason why Wire Pass Canyon may not be appropriate for those traveling with young children, the elderly, or individuals afraid of heights. As the canyon walls become higher and closer together, they suddenly open up as the second slot connects with the Buckskin Gulch. If you’ve had enough at this point, you can simply turn around and head back to your vehicle. If you’d like to explore further, you can easily make a half-day hike out of the immediate area around the confluence with the Buckskin. Look for some bighorn sheep petroglyphs dating back hundreds, maybe thousands of years! Access to Wire Pass Canyon and the Buckskin Gulch is off US89 between Page, AZ, and Kanab, UT, on the House Rock Valley Road. Hikers are required to pay a self-permitting fee at the kiosk by the trailhead. Fair warning: the House Rock Valley Road is unpaved! While it is accessible to 2WD vehicles much of the time, if recent weather has brought any moisture whatsoever, the HRVR can turn into a muddy, impassable mess. Parties in rental cars should think twice about attempting this road since off-road driving is strictly prohibited by most rental car companies. A guided tour will get your family to Wire Pass Canyon and back in one piece, and turn you onto features you might have missed trying to find your own way. Page, AZ, and Kanab, UT based companies offering guided tours to Wire Pass Canyon and the Buckskin Gulch include:
– Detours American West, 480-633-9013, http://www.detoursamericanwest.com
– Paria Outpost & Outfitters, 928-691-1047, http://www.paria.com
– Grand Staircase Discovery Tours, 928-614-4099, http://www.grandstaircasediscoverytours.com
Red Canyon/Peek-A-Boo is a family-friendly slot canyon is located between Kanab and Mt. Carmel Junction, Utah, approximately 90 minutes from Page, AZ. With twists and turns on par with the Antelope Canyons, this short but memorable walk features classic slot canyon scenery (including the occasional light beams in the summertime), as well as some unique features such as ancient “moqui” steps, and “Shaman’s Needle,” a pencil-thin stone column located in a small sub-drainage near the canyon’s entrance. While a guided tour is not required to get to Peek-A-Boo, we strongly recommend that you consider taking one, because while the walk through the canyon itself is usually not difficult, the drive to get there can be. 4WD vehicles with adequate clearance are a definite must, with tire pressure lowered to accommodate potentially deep sand. If you’re driving a rental car, forget it! You will void your insurance the minute your tires part with the pavement, which means you’d be on the hook for a very expensive rescue, should you need one, and have to foot the bill for any damage you’d sustain. For those who would prefer to explore Peek-A-Boo in the safety and comfort of a guided tour, there are several reputable companies to choose from in Kanab, UT, including:
– Dreamland Safari Tours, (435) 412-1790, http://www.dreamlandtours.net
– TC Tours, (435) 668-5262, http://www.slotcanyontourskanab.com
– Kanab Tour Company, (435) 644-5525, http://www.kanabtourcompany.com
– Forever Adventure Tours, 435-644-5700, http://www.foreveradventuretours.com
– Grand Circle Tours, (928) 691-0166, http://www.vermilioncliffs.net
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂
Hi Alley, can you tell me if the Antelope canyon is open now? Thank you in advance!
Hi Ericka,
So sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but closure of the Antelope Canyons has been extended at least through August 16th. For suggestions of alternate activities, namely slot canyons, you can still explore, check out this piece on our companion site, http://www.AntelopeCanyon.AZ: “Help! My Antelope Canyon Tour Got Cancelled”
Good luck and safe travels
Alley 🙂
Hi Alley- I cannot tell on the website if Antelope Canyon opened 2 days ago or not. Can you confirm if it did open 8/16?
Thank you!
Hi Andrea,
Sorry, but the Antelope Canyons are slated to remain closed for awhile longer, at least until August 31st.
In the meantime, there are several beautiful slot canyons in the semi-immediate vicinity of Antelope Canyon that are not subject to the closure of Navajo Indian Tribal Parks. We recommend Red Canyon, aka Peek-A-Boo Canyon, near Kanab, UT, if you’re looking for a family-friendly experience. While a guided tour is not required to get to Peek-A-Boo, we strongly recommend that you take one, because while the walk through the canyon itself is usually not difficult, the drive to get there can be. 4WD vehicles with adequate clearance are a definite must, with tire pressure lowered to accommodate potentially deep sand. If you’re driving a rental car, forget it! You will void your insurance the minute your tires part with the pavement, which means you’d be on the hook for a very expensive rescue, should you need one, and have to foot the bill for any damage you’d sustain. There are several reputable companies to choose from in Kanab, UT, including:
– Dreamland Safari Tours, (435) 412-1790, http://www.dreamlandtours.net
– TC Tours, (435) 668-5262, http://www.slotcanyontourskanab.com
– Kanab Tour Company, (435) 644-5525, http://www.kanabtourcompany.com
– Forever Adventure Tours, 435-644-5700, http://www.foreveradventuretours.com
– Grand Circle Tours, (928) 691-0166, http://www.vermilioncliffs.net
If you’re wanting something more adventurous, Wire Pass Canyon is a photogenic two-part slot canyon that is short enough for intermediate-level hikers to enjoy, yet offers the option to delve further into Buckskin Gulch for those wanting more of a challenge. The walk to the entrance of the initial slot is via a typically dry streambed, which may feature deep sand. An 8-10’ drop a short distance into the slot canyon is one reason why Wire Pass Canyon may not be appropriate for those traveling with young children, the elderly, or individuals afraid of heights. Access to Wire Pass Canyon and the Buckskin Gulch is off US89 between Page, AZ, and Kanab, UT, on the House Rock Valley Road. Hikers are required to pay a self-permitting fee at the kiosk by the trailhead. Fair warning: the House Rock Valley Road is unpaved! While it is accessible to 2WD vehicles much of the time, if recent weather has brought any moisture whatsoever, the HRVR can turn into a muddy, impassable mess. Parties in rental cars should think twice about attempting this road since off-road driving is strictly prohibited by most rental car companies. A guided tour will get your family to Wire Pass Canyon and back in one piece, and turn you onto features you might have missed trying to find your own way. Page, AZ, and Kanab, UT based companies offering guided tours to Wire Pass Canyon and the Buckskin Gulch include:
– Detours American West, 480-633-9013, http://www.detoursamericanwest.com
– Paria Outpost & Outfitters, 928-691-1047, http://www.paria.com
– Grand Staircase Discovery Tours, 928-614-4099, http://www.grandstaircasediscoverytours.com
Hope that helps! To get notified immediately if/when the Antelope Canyons reopen, visit our companion site to get on a priority e-mail list at http://www.AntelopeCanyon.AZ
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂
Do you know when everything will open back up? I want to come between July 6-10.
Hi Misty,
We are currently awaiting word as to whether or not the Antelope Canyons will reopen by the initially proposed date of July 6th. Unfortunately, we are already hearing talk of the closures being extended further, but that’s just talk.
Normally, I’d recommend you tour Wire Pass Canyon instead, but a large wildfire has broken out in that area, so it’s closed off to visitation until it gets contained. Should that still be an issue by the time you visit, Should they still be closed at the time of your visit, a good alternative would be Red Canyon, aka Peek-A-Boo Canyon in Kanab, UT (not to be confused with another Peek-A-Boo Canyon in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument!) This family-friendly slot canyon is located approximately 90 minutes from Page, AZ. With twists and turns on par with the Antelope Canyons, it’s a short but memorable walk offering classic slot canyon scenery (including the occasional light beams in the summertime), as well as some unique features such as ancient “moqui” steps, and “Shaman’s Needle,” a pencil-thin stone column located in a small sub-drainage near the canyon’s entrance. While a guided tour is not required to get to Peek-A-Boo, we strongly recommend that you consider taking one, because while the walk through the canyon itself is usually not difficult, the drive to get there can be. Reputable companies that can get you out to Peek-A-Boo in safety and comfort are:
– Dreamland Safari Tours, (435) 412-1790, http://www.dreamlandtours.net
– TC Tours, (435) 668-5262, http://www.slotcanyontourskanab.com
– Kanab Tour Company, (435) 644-5525, http://www.kanabtourcompany.com
– Forever Adventure Tours, 435-644-5700, http://www.foreveradventuretours.com
– Grand Circle Tours, (928) 691-0166, http://www.vermilioncliffs.net
Fortunately, Horseshoe Bend is one of a handful of attractions that never closed during COVID-19, so you can still visit it, along with many scenic views and easy hikes surrounding Lake Powell.
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂
So disappointing to hear you’re still closed. I get it, I’m just a little devastated about it. Coming through Page next week, literally a week before you open back up it it looks like. Unfortunately, we cannot change our dates as we’ll be in the area to spread the ashes of my husband’s father. Antelope Canyon has been on my bucket list for years and I’ll probably never go through there again. The boat tour video looks pale in comparison; rocks on water. No light dancing on the majestic painted walls of the canyon, no waterfalls of light trickling down into the shadows or rays of sun to shine down perfectly into the darkness as I imagine it would be like standing in the light of the Almighty. My soul is restless to experience such a wonder of creation.
sigh…Que sera, sera.
Hey Cherina,
We are so sorry that the Antelope Canyons will remain closed during your visit to Page, AZ, but it is still possible to experience a beautiful slot canyon tour while you’re in the area! Just set your sights on Kanab, UT, just one hour from Page, AZ.
Red Canyon aka Peek-A-Boo Canyon, not to be confused with Peek-A-Boo Canyon in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, is a family-friendly slot canyon is located between Kanab and Mt. Carmel Junction, Utah. With twists and turns on par with the Antelope Canyons, this short but memorable walk features classic slot canyon scenery (including the occasional light beams in the summertime), as well as some unique features such as ancient “moqui” steps, and “Shaman’s Needle,” a pencil-thin stone column located in a small sub-drainage near the canyon’s entrance. While a guided tour is not required to get to Peek-A-Boo, we strongly recommend that you consider taking one, because while the walk through the canyon itself is usually not difficult, the drive to get there can be. 4WD vehicles with adequate clearance are a definite must, with tire pressure lowered to accommodate potentially deep sand. If you’re driving a rental car, forget it! You will void your insurance the minute your tires part with the pavement, which means you’d be on the hook for a very expensive rescue, should you need one, and have to foot the bill for any damage you’d sustain. If you want to try your hand at self-driving, go 7.5 miles past the Kanab, UT, city limit sign on US 89; turn onto BLM road #102 and follow it 4 miles in until you find the parking area. For those who would prefer to explore Peek-A-Boo in the safety and comfort of a guided tour, there are several reputable companies to choose from in Kanab, UT, including:
– Dreamland Safari Tours, (435) 412-1790, http://www.dreamlandtours.net
– TC Tours, (435) 668-5262, http://www.slotcanyontourskanab.com
– Kanab Tour Company, (435) 644-5525, http://www.kanabtourcompany.com
– Forever Adventure Tours, 435-644-5700, http://www.foreveradventuretours.com
– Grand Circle Tours, (928) 691-0166, http://www.vermillioncliffs.net
If everyone in your party is in relatively good shape and up for something a littl more adventurous, you’d probably enjoy exploring Wire Pass Canyon and part of the Buckskin Gulch. Wire Pass Canyon is a photogenic two-part slot canyon that is short enough for intermediate-level hikers to handle, yet offers the option to delve further into Buckskin Gulch for those wanting more of a challenge. The walk to the entrance of the initial slot is via a typically dry streambed, which may feature deep sand. An 8-10’ drop a short distance into the slot canyon is one reason why Wire Pass Canyon may not be appropriate for those traveling with young children, the elderly, or individuals afraid of heights. As the canyon walls become higher and closer together, they suddenly open up as the second slot connects with the Buckskin Gulch. If you’ve had enough at this point, you can simply turn around and head back to your vehicle. If you’d like to explore further, you can easily make a half-day hike out of the immediate area around the confluence with the Buckskin. Look for some bighorn sheep petroglyphs dating back hundreds, maybe thousands of years! Access to Wire Pass Canyon and the Buckskin Gulch is off US89 between Page, AZ, and Kanab, UT, on the House Rock Valley Road. Hikers are required to pay a self-permitting fee at the kiosk by the trailhead. Fair warning: the House Rock Valley Road is unpaved! While it is accessible to 2WD vehicles much of the time, if recent weather has brought any moisture whatsoever, the HRVR can turn into a muddy, impassable mess. Parties in rental cars should think twice about attempting this road since off-road driving is strictly prohibited by most rental car companies. A guided tour will get your family to Wire Pass Canyon and back in one piece, and turn you onto features you might have missed trying to find your own way. Page, AZ, and Kanab, UT based companies offering guided tours to Wire Pass Canyon and the Buckskin Gulch include:
– Detours American West, 480-633-9013, http://www.detoursamericanwest.com
– Paria Outpost & Outfitters, 928-691-1047, http://www.paria.com
– Grand Staircase Discovery Tours, 928-614-4099, http://www.grandstaircasediscoverytours.com
Hope that helps! Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂
Some one know if Antelope Canyon is still closed at this time?
Dear Jorge,
The Antelope Canyons are unfortunately closed through July 5th 🙁
The good news is there are several slot canyons in the local area that are not situated on reservation lands. The closest ones are Wire Pass Canyon and the Buckskin Gulch, located off US89 down the House Rock Valley Road between Page, AZ, and Kanab, UT; and Peek-a-Boo Canyon aka Red Canyon, near Kanab, UT, down BLM Road #102 off US89. While neither of these technically require a guided tour to visit, we strongly recommend taking one since both access routes are unpaved and visitors in rental cars would void their insurance by driving off-road.
For Wire Pass Canyon/Buckskin Gulch Tours, contact one of the following licensed guide services:
– Paria Outpost & Outfitters, 928-691-1047, http://www.paria.com
– Grand Staircase Discovery Tours, 928-614-4099, http://www.grandstaircasediscoverytours.com
For Red/Peek-A-Boo Canyon, contact:
– Dreamland Safari Tours, (435) 412-1790, http://www.dreamlandtours.net
– TC Tours, (435) 668-5262, http://www.slotcanyontourskanab.com
– Kanab Tour Company, (435) 644-5525, http://www.kanabtourcompany.com
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂
I was wondering if Antelope Canyon is still closed at this time?
Hi Veronica,
We regret to inform you that the Antelope Canyons remain closed at this time. Their estimated reopen date is late this summer. Visit our companion site, http://www.AntelopeCanyon.AZ, to sign up for an e-mail alert the minute the canyons re-open!
Sorry to be the bearer of bad news,
Alley
Hi. I am wondering if Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon (the latter by SUP in Lake Powell) are open now and whether you anticipate any closures next week. Thanks
Hi Emily,
At the present time, the Horseshoe Bend Overlook remains open, but that could be subject to change on very short notice. For obvious reasons, we urge you to please practice basic common-sense measures as advised by the CDC and WHO: wash your hands frequently, stay at least 6′ away from other people, avoid touching your face, especially after touching hand-rails, credit card machines, and other surfaces that get touched frequently, and last but not least, stay home or at your hotel if you feel the least bit sick.
As for Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) tours, local rental and tour outfitters have not indicated that they are closed, per se, but the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area has suspended many services offered by concessionaires, including boat tours. Our best advice would be to call your chosen rental or SUP tour outlet directly for more information.
For current information regarding potential closure(s), I would recommend monitoring these websites:
LakePowellLife.com, website of the local radio station in Page, AZ, and
The Lake Powell Chronicle, Page, AZ’s local newspaper
The City of Page, who oversee the parking lot at Horseshoe Bend
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂
Hello, can i bring my dog with me?
Hi Darya,
Absolutely! You are welcome to bring your dog to the Horseshoe Bend Overlook as long as he/se is leashed at all times and you take the responsibility to pick up after them.
One thing, too: you don’t mention what time of year you’re visiting, but if you are coming in the period from late spring through early fall, keep in mind that daytime high temperatures can get very hot, which means the trail to the overlook can get even hotter. Protect your dog by putting protective booties on him/her before you go out, and be sure to bring enough water for your dog, and all the people in your traveling party.
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂
Hi Alley,
First of all, thank you so much for all the info on your website. This is superb!
Do you know if I can bring my dog on the antelope canyon tours? I’m traveling with him from FL to LA on a roadtrip. This would be a fun thing to do if we can. Thanks in advance !
Hi Eli,
Sorry to be the bearer of bad news here, but dogs are not allowed on any Antelope Canyon tours 🙁 It is not due to any undue prejudice against dogs on the part of the tour operators, but the ruggedness of the terrain can pose a safety hazard to both animal and human.
If you bring your dog with you on your road trip, you will need to board him during your Antelope Canyon tour. There are 3 places that offer pet boarding in Page, AZ:
– Page Animal Hospital, 928-323-0057 (I have boarded pets here personally, never had a problem)
– Angie’s Grooming, 928-614-8586 (haven’t boarded pets there, but I know the owner personally, she’s very reputable)
– Pampered Pets/Paws & All, 928-640-2574 or 928-640-6898 (not personally familiar, but they are well-reviewed)
Hope that helps. Good luck and safe travels!
Alley 🙂
I am trying to reserve an lower/boat tour for one person but the website says,”You must specify a MINIMUM of 2 passengers” when I try to purchase your for one person. How can I book the tour for one person? I tried booking for one person for upper/lower/boat triple crown tour to see if I could book that for one person and I got the same message, “You must specify a MINIMUM of 2 passengers.”
Hi Wendy,
I’m sorry to hear that you’re having trouble booking a party of one on the Antelope Canyon Triple Crown Tour. According to my information, there shouldn’t be a problem doing this. If you continue to experience difficulties, please go directly to http://www.AntelopeCanyonNOW.com to make your Antelope Canyon tour reservations.
Thank you,
Alley 🙂
Hello Alley,
I am looking for a upper and lower antelope tour for photography. However, I could not find the photographer group. How many people in group for 1 tour guy if I book the normal tour. What is your recommendation? what tour should I book?
Hi Katherine,
So sorry to be the bearer of bad news in this regard, but photography tours in both Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon have been discontinued. If you were to book the general sightseeing tour in either canyon, you would be with about 10-15 other people in your particular group, but you may encounter other tour groups ahead and behind you.
If you would like to experience Page, AZ’s famous slot canyon scenery without sharing it with so many people, you might consider touring one of several alternate slot canyons that are just as beautiful but a lot less croweded. Antelope Canyon X, for example, is like Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon rolled into one. It consists of two separate slot canyons, one with a few uphill climbs, and one that’s totally flat. It is managed exclusively by Taadidiin Tours.
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂
Hi there,
I’m looking to do an antelope canyon and horse shoe bend in the one day. I was hoping to do upper and lower, plus horse shoe bend but feel this would be pushing time. As such I’m looking at instead doing the secret antelope and horse shoe bend tour.
I’m wondering then, if the secret antelope tour is as good as the upper or lower antelope? Or if I should try and push to have the upper + lower + horse shoe?
Thank you
Hey Sam,
The feasibility of touring Upper and Lower Antelope plus Horseshoe Bend in one day depends on the time of year you’re visiting and corresponding daylength. If you’re trip is coming up in spring or summertime, you have 12-15 of daylight. Upper Antelope Canyon takes anywhere from 2-2.5 hours to tour, factoring in advance check-in time and logistics of getting to your tour company’s departure location. Lower typically runs 1.5-2 hours. In both cases, you might encounter some “bottlenecking” during mid-day tours, which might delay your departure time somewhat. Horseshoe Bend is best visited just after sunrise to take advantage of smaller crowds, and cooler temperatures during the warmer months of the year.
If you were to do Secret Antelope Canyon instead, that’s most comparable to Upper Antelope Canyon in that it has no stairs, but it is a longer canyon at ~450-500 yards. Therefore, tours will last longer.
If you decide on touring Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon, be sure to book your tours as a “bundle” for optimal convenience in the reservations process.
Whichever way you go, another thing to keep in mind is if you’re planning to drive to another location after your slot canyon tour, be sure to time your departure from Page, AZ, so that you’re not doing any of it in the dark. Nighttime driving is strongly discouraged in this part of the U.S. due to roads being very dimly lit, and the possible presence of deer, elk, and other wildlife that can hike up your collision risk.
Hope that helps. Good luck and safe travels!
Alley 🙂
Hi. Is it possible to do Lower, Horseshoe and Upper all on one day? We have a 10am tour booked for lower. Would we be able to complete that and Horseshoe in time for a 230 Upper tour?
Thank you!
Hi, Ann!
Lower Antelope Canyon tours can last anywhere from 1.5-2.5 hours, factoring in advance check-in time and the inevitable “bottlenecking” (slight but progressive delays due to high numbers of tourists) that occurs as the day goes on. The latter phenomenon tends to be worse during the summer months, so may not be much of a factor if you’re visiting during the shoulder or off-season (November through March). Assuming that, worst case scenario, your tour ended at 12:30 PM, it would then take you about 10 minutes to drive to Horseshoe Bend, and possibly another 10 to find a parking spot, so 1:00 PM would be approximately when you would start the hike to Horseshoe Bend. 60-90 minutes is the average time recommended to allow for visiting the overlook, including the hike out and back, and allowing for time to take photos. Therefore, you might be cutting it too close to make it in time for a 2:30 tour of Upper Antelope Canyon, especially if your tour company requires that you check in at 2:00 PM.
Long story short, since the parking lot at Horseshoe Bend is open from sunrise to sunset, this is one element of your trip plan you can get away with “playing by ear.” If your Lower Antelope Canyon tour starts and ends in a timely manner, you could probably make it out to Horseshoe Bend and be back to Antelope Canyon in time to do a 2:30 PM Upper Antelope tour. If you find that things are running a bit late, you could save the visit to Horseshoe Bend Overlook for after your Upper Antelope Canyon tour, or consider hitting it before your Lower Antelope Canyon tour. Just after sunrise is actually one of the better times of the day to visit Horseshoe Bend to take advantage of cooler temperatures and smaller crowds.
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂
Thank you so much! What would you say is the ideal time to visit Horseshoe Bend? We could save it for another day if need be. We will be there October 15.
Thank you!
Hi again, Ann!
I’d recommend hitting Horseshoe Bend just after sunrise because the parking lot gets really crowded between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM. Day trippers (family and commercial) from Phoenix, Vegas, Sedona, etc. are arriving and departing during that timeframe, and the parking lot routinely fills up. If you find that the case when you arrive, you’ll be asked to come back later. If it’s full when you come back, wash, rinse, repeat. You get the picture, hopefully. The hours just after sunrise are not as crowded, so finding a parking space is typically not a problem, and you might just enjoy a little solitude.
Alley 🙂
I’m travelling solo and I’m interested in the Lower Canyon and Boat Tour with the early start on October 22nd.
Am I required to book/pay for two? Do you offer a senior discount?
Thank you.
Hi Harold,
It is possible to book one passenger on the Lower Antelope Canyon + Boat Tour bundle (I tried it myself just to see). As for senior discounts, this is not offered via the booking software we work with. If you wish to inquire about this, you would need to contact the tour companies directly. For Ken’s Lower Antelope Canyon Tours, their phone # is (928) 645-6997; for Antelope Canyon Boat Tours , call (928) 608-4477.
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂
Hello,
We are going to do the lower antelope canyon tour which will end at 11:30. We’d like to go to horseshoe bend. Can you walk to it from the lower antelope canyon or drive? Also, is it free or should I be buying a ticket. Would love the feedback. Thank You, Bunny
Hi Bunny!
Horseshoe Bend is approximately 10 miles from Antelope Canyon, so it is definitely best to drive from one place to the other. To visit Horseshoe Bend in your own vehicle, a $10 one-time parking fee is required for standard passenger cars; fees are higher for larger vans and commercial vehicles. For more information on Horseshoe Bend parking fees, click here.
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂
is there any suggested tour from Antelope Lower canyon and horseshoe bend tour ? we are planning to book a hotel near it i just wonder if there is available tour for this and how much? 3 adult and 4yr old baby.thnks
Hi Ann,
There are no tours that combine Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend, mainly because Horseshoe Bend can be visited in your own vehicle at your leisure. It costs $10/vehicle to enter. RE: Lower Antelope Canyon, please think carefully as to whether that would be the most appropriate tour seeing as through you have young kids in your party. Lower Antelope, while not super-strenuous, does require navigating some ladders and stairs, as well as some simple bouldering. You might end up carrying the child(ren) through sections that are the hardest on you, which won’t add to your enjoyment of the experience. We tend to recommend Upper Antelope Canyon for families like yourselves as it’s short (100 yards out and back) and the trail through it is relatively flat.
To accurately gauge whether your family would be able to handle Lower Antelope, watch this Lower Antelope Canyon Full Walk-Through Video, and also read FAQ: Bringing Kids to Antelope Canyon on our companion site, http://www.AntelopeCanyon.AZ
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂
Along with my questions above, I read somewhere stating that no kids under 3 and no backpack/camera allowed ? Is that true ? For the regular sightseeing. Where can I book the Upper Antelope tour mentioned for photographer tour ? Thank you
Hi again, Ming,
It is true that many Antelope Canyon and surrounding slot canyon tours do not allow younger children. However, all ages are welcome on the general sightseeing tour in Upper Antelope Canyon, however, backpacks and strollers are not allowed. For booking the photographer’s tour in Upper, visit the official websites of the various Antelope Canyon tour companies to check availability. How To Book A Tour For Antelope Canyon
Have fun!
Alley 🙂
My family and I are planning to visit upper Antelope and Grand Canyon. Is Upper Antelope open in mid April ? If so, what are the best please to visit beside upper Antelope? Thank you
Hi Ming, and thank you for your visit,
I hope you are aware that the Grand Canyon and Antelope Canyon are two separate attractions. Page, AZ (Antelope Canyon) is ~150 miles away from Grand Canyon South Rim, with an average “realistic” drive time of 3.5-4 hours.
Antelope Canyon is open year-round. Other popular attractions in the area include, but aren’t limited to Horseshoe Bend, the Glen Canyon Dam and nearby overlook, the John Wesley Powell Museum, Lake Powell, Antelope Point Marina, and the Navajo Village Heritage Center.
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂
We are going to Antelope Canyon in mid May – probably on a Sunday or Monday, driving ourselves to the parks. Do we have to reserve & pay for a ticket for Antelope Canyon in advance? Is there parking at Antelope Canyon? Can you do the upper and lower canyon? Should we go see Horsebend first, then Antelope Canyon? We are coming from Flagstaff. Thank you!
Hi Connie and thank you for your inquiries.
Let’s get right to them!
1. Yes, you must reserve and pay for an Antelope Canyon tour in advance. This is a very popular attraction, so do this ASAP. In the event you find Antelope Canyon Tours sold out, consider touring one of several alternate slot canyons that are just as beautiful, but a lot less crowded.
2. There is parking at the Antelope Canyon Tribal Park Entrance on US98, a few miles Southeast of the tow of Page, AZ. However, if you opt to tour Upper Antelope Canyon, you have the option of being picked up in the town of Page, AZ, if that’s more convenient for you.
3. Yes, you can tour both Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon, but frankly, it is not necessary in order to have a fulfilling visit to Page, AZ. If you are physically able to handle Lower, I’d recommend sticking with it, then using your time for other activities, such as visiting the John Wesley Powell Museum, touring the Glen Canyon Dam, taking one or more easy but scenic hikes in the Glen Canyon area, or visiting the Navajo Village Heritage Center.
4. Theoretically, you can see Horseshoe Bend first, but that will be contingent on availability of parking. Be prepared to return to the overlook at another time should the parking lot be full, or utilize alternate means of getting there.
5. (This is my own input here) The drive from Flagstaff “on paper” takes ~2.5 hours, but in actuality, it will take longer. It is a very scenic drive and there are many photo ops along the way that will no doubt pique your interest. These include, but aren’t limited to, Wupatki/Sunset Crater National Monument, the Cameron Trading Post, Chinle formation views, and the “Cut” Overlook.
Good luck and safe travels,
Alley 🙂
Hi!
I am planning to visit Horseshoe bend, page and antelope canyon in a day.
I read through the previous comments and replies from others, I’ve learned that horseshoe bend has free admission to drive to the overlook parking lot to visit.
Antelope Canyon Tour requires tour guide and it cost about 80-90 USD for adults and kids. From the previous comments, I’ve found that the tour costs as 20-40 USD. I would like to know whether there are a company who offers special price or lower price for upper Antelope Canyon. I am planing to make this trip in the first week of February.
To visit Page, could you recommend place to visit? I could not find much information for this place.
To make memorable visit to those places in a day, please recommend the best sites and ways for me.
After visiting those places, we are driving to Grand Canyon.
Hope to hear from you soon!
Hi again, Hyun,
Antelope Canyon is an extremely popular attraction. No one offers discounts or promo codes anymore. You will find that peak hour tours – those occurring during the mid-day hours when lighting conditions are optimal – are more expensive than so-called “off-hour” tours – tours departing earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon. Honestly, there is no such thing as a “bad” time to tour Antelope Canyon. Simply pick an Antelope Canyon tour that fits your family’s fitness level, budget, and schedule, and book it.
Regarding a “place to visit” in Page, I assume you’re referring to place to stay? If that’s the case, lodging here runs the gamut from Motel 6 to Marriott and virtually everything in between. We also have vacation rental homes, bed and breakfasts, and world-class resorts (mainly Amangiri). For suggestions, check out VisitPageLakePowell.com: Where To Stay
As to the order in which you visit Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and other attractions, let these plans revolve around your Antelope Canyon tour booking. Page, AZ, is a relatively small town, so things are not terribly far away from one another.
You are correct in that parking at Horseshoe Bend is free at the moment, but parking has become quite competitive of late. Don’t be surprised to find the parking lot full, unless you visit right after sunrise. There are other ways of getting to the overlook, which are worthy of consideration. “Help! There’s No Place To Park At Horseshoe Bend”
For other suggestions on how to get the most out of a 1-day visit, check out “24 Hours In Page, Arizona.” For more tips, visit our companion site, http://www.AntelopeCanyon.AZ.
Good luck and safe travels!
Alley 🙂
We are planning to visit Page, Horseshoe and Antelope canyon in first week of February.
My concern is that the temperature would be too cold to visit there. Could you please let me know the temperature in that time?
To visit those places, could you recommend the best tour program that can meet our expectations?
Thank you. Hyun
Hi Hyun,
Wintertime temperatures are cold, but shouldn’t discourage you from visiting Page, Horseshoe Bend, and Antelope Canyon. Daytime high temperatures tend to run in the 40’s (Fahrenheit), and overnight lows dip to at or below freezing. Just be sure to pack jackets, gloves, scarves and other winter apparel and you’ll be fine.
For suggestions on how to visit these attractions, see my reply to your next post 😉
Alley
Planning of being there mid-April 2019. Would like to know when would I be able to make reservations to Tour Antelope Canyon/Bend Slot. Thanks!
Hi Manuel,
Our compliments on planning your Arizona vacation well in advance, especially your Antelope Canyon tour. Upper Antelope Canyon tour companies are presently taking reservations through February-March of 2019. April reservations should open up sometime in November. Lower Antelope Canyon tours, however, are bookable online right now. Which brings me to a most important point: you’ll need to decide whether you prefer to tour Lower or Upper Antelope Canyon. In a nutshell, Lower Antelope is more physical, requires some stair climbing, simple boulder climbing, and some areas of deep sand; Upper is an easy, 100 yard flat walk preceded by a 2-mile 4WD trip down an unpaved track. For more information, read “How To Book A Tour For Antelope Canyon.”
Good luck and safe travels!
Alley 🙂
Hi Ryan, what’s the difference between upper and lower antelope canyon. I’m doing the upper in Aug, should I book the lower as well
Hi Jahana,
The primary difference between Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon is degree of difficulty. Whilst Upper Antelope Canyon is 100 yards in length with a flat walk the entire length of it, Lower Antelope Canyon is longer (~600m), and requires some stair/ladder climbing and light bouldering.
Watch this video: “Full Lower Antelope Canyon Walk-Through” and if you think you can handle this, change your tour reservations to Lower Antelope Canyon and cancel Upper. There’s no need to tour both Lower and Upper Antelope Canyon in order to have a fulfilling visit to Page.
If you have time to spare, you might consider visiting the John Wesley Powell Memorial Museum, taking a boat tour of Lake Powell or perhaps a scenic flight, or taking one of several easy but scenic hikes in the Page, AZ area, including The “New” Wave, the Rim View Trail, the White House Overlook or The Chains.
Hope that helps.
Good luck and safe travels!
Alley 🙂
Am having trouble contacting you. . The email keeps bouncing back advising incorrect email address. . But are emailing via your link. . Could you send me correct email please. Thanks
Hi Wendy,
I have sent you a private message. Please check your inbox.
Alley 🙂
Hi, I am interested in driving up to Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend myself. Is there a price reduction on the tour for that option? What would the tour entail? How long is it?
Hi Hiba, thank you for visiting our site today!
Unfortunately, there is no price reduction offered for visiting both Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend. At the present time, there is no fee charged for visiting Horseshoe Bend. Most visitors spend 1-2 hours there.
As for what an Antelope Canyon tour entails, that depends on whether you visit Upper or Lower Antelope. For Upper, you would be driven from either the town of Page, Arizona or the Tribal Park Entrance on Highway 98 by 4×4 truck about 2 miles off the road back to the canyon’s entrance, where you would be given an hour or so to walk through it before being driven back go your point of origin.
For Lower, you would go directly to the Tribal Park Entrance on Highway 98, and be escorted on foot to the canyon, and have 90 minutes to 2 hours to walk through it. Lower Antelope Canyon is longer and requires more exertion in the form of stair climbing and simple boulder scrambling.
Hope that helps and that you have a wonderful trip!
Alley 🙂
Hi you know taketours it takes you from las vegas to antelope canyon and horsebend is it okay because i don’t know? We want to come in july 2017
Dear Jen fal,
Take Tours’ Las Vegas-Antelope Canyon tour has been well-reviewed for the most part. If you have doubts, there are other tour companies you can use, such as Viator or Tours4Fun. Of course, the best Horseshoe Bend touring experience you can hope to have is one where you drive yourself and stay overnight so you can set your own pace, and take part in more activities. Page, AZ has a lot to offer.
Hope that helps. Do let us know how you get on.
Alley 🙂
Hello. We are planning to rent a motor boat from Wahweap marina in August. Can we go to Antelope canyon with the boat ? Is the navigation on the lake difficult ? Thank you and congrats on your website
Hi Flo,
Thank you for stopping by! Apologies for the delay in reply to your inquiry.
Yes, you can visit Antelope Canyon by boat from Wahweap Marina, however, you will be going to the waterside of the canyon where it drains into Lake Powell. The slot canyon, which you’ve no doubt seen pictures of, is on the land side of the canyon, so if you wish to see that, you will need to book a tour. How To Book A Tour Of Antelope Canyon
As for whether navigation on Lake Powell is difficult, getting to Antelope Canyon is pretty straightforward, but we strongly recommend you invest in a good map. They are available for purchase at multiple retail outlets in the Page, AZ area and probably at Wahweap Marina Boat Rentals, too. We were always partial to Stan Jones’ map, which, according to recent reliable sources, is still quite accurate despite the change in Lake Powell’s water level. Others suggest getting the Navionics app for your smartphone. Lake Powell Map forum
Good luck and have fun!
Alley 🙂
We are planning to go trip with my 16-month-old son to Antelope Canyon, Horse shoe bend and Lake Powell during this 4th of July weekend. It would be too hot, right? Can you advise what time we should avoid for antelope guide tour or boat tour? Also, what is the difference between ANTELOPE SLOT CANYON BOAT TOUR that you have in this website and Antelope Canyon Tour(Boat tour) that is in lakepowell.com? Is there only one difference on the tour duration? (1hr vs. 1.5hrs)
Hi Alice, thanks for stopping by!
With a baby, you need to be extremely careful about overexposure to heat and sun. 4th of July weekend will be extremely hot, as you’ve gathered. Any hiking you do should be done during the cooler times of the day, especially to Horseshoe Bend as there is no shade on the trail or overlook. Fortunately, the interior of Antelope Canyon and other slot canyons tends to remain consistently cool as they are shaded, however, the trip to the canyon entrance can also be in unshaded areas. Hats, sunglasses and sunscreen are a definite must. Water, water, water. Bring it, and drink it.
As for the boat tours, again, you have correctly deduced that the only difference between the Antelope Point Boat Tour and the Lake Powell Resort Boat Tour is time. Lake Powell Resorts’ tour requires an extra half hour because it is located further away from Antelope Canyon.
Have fun, be safe and stay cool!
Alley 🙂
Hi,
Can you kindly advise on best way to visit upper Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe bend.
We plane to drive from Sedona to Page (as we are going back to Williams) thus not certain whether we can visit Horseshoe band by ourselves at our leisure-or have to take a guided tour?
I understand this is a National Park and fee is applied-thus not certain do we must take guided tour or can pay entrance fee and where we can do this? Page? And go ourselves to Horseshoe Band after we visit Upper Antelope canyon with Guided tour.
Unfortunately I was not able to find online tour combining Upper Anthelope Canyon with Horseshoe band if we come ourselves to Page (just guided tours form Sedona/Flagstaff that we would like to avoid if feasible).
Thanks for your reply.
Hi Suzy,
Yes, you absolutely can visit Horseshoe Bend by yourselves at your leisure. It is open 24 hours a day 7 days a week — although we wouldn’t recommend visiting at night since there are no guardrails and it’s a long drop to the river.
In answer to your other queries, Horseshoe Bend is part of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, but at the present time, no admission fees are charged to go there. Antelope Canyon on the other hand is a Navajo Nation Tribal Park, so an entrance fee, and a licensed tour guide, are required to visit. Advance reservations are strongly recommended. Antelope Canyon Tour Reservations
You are correct in that no tours are given that combine Upper Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend, however, there is a tour that visits both Horseshoe Bend Overlook and Horseshoe Bend Slot Canyon, formerly known as Secret Canyon. Definitely worth considering if you happen to find Upper Antelope Canyon tours sold out! Horseshoe Bend Slot Canyon and Overlook Tour
Thank you for visiting and we wish you safe and happy travels!
Alley 🙂
We are planning to be in Page in early June. Is it possible to schedule a boat tour at that time? The booking part of the website seems to have all of June blocked due to “wakeless regulations.?”
Hi Steve, thank you for visiting our site!
If the website you’re referring to is LakePowell.com, I checked it myself and the boat tours are not “blocked out,” per se, but the calendar is colored in in such a way that the dates look to be blocked out. We might be able to contact their webmaster to see about changing that. Otherwise, the tours are showing available. The “wakeless zone” regulations simply refer to boat traffic being required to travel at slower speeds, whether they’re tour boats or private boats. They won’t affect operation of the tours.
If you still have trouble with the website, you can contact ARAMARK/Lake Powell Resorts’ corporate office by phone at 888-896-3829. If you’re calling from overseas, you can contact Lake Powell Resort directly at 928-645-2433.
Hope that helps – have a wonderful trip!
Alley
Hi Ryan/Miranda,
Is it possible to visit horse shoe bend, antelope canyon and one of the arches in one day? Thank you for the help
Hi Budhira, thanks for your enquiry!
If by “one of the arches,” you mean Rainbow Bridge (the arch that’s most often associated with Page and Lake Powell), you can see it, Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon in a single day. However, it will make for a very long day, unless you’re prepared to think a little “outside the box.”
Rainbow Bridge National Monument cannot be driven to. Therefore, most visitors to the Page/Lake Powell area visit Rainbow Bridge by boat tour from Lake Powell Resort. Due to the present level of Lake Powell, this tour will take 7.5 hours to complete, and require a 2.5-mile round-trip walk to see the actual bridge. During the summer months, there are two daily departures: 7:30 AM and 1:30 PM. So, you could theoretically take the 7:30 AM Rainbow Bridge Boat Tour, which would finish at roughly 3:00 PM, then you would have to drive back to Page, AZ, get on an Antelope Canyon Tour, then head to Horseshoe Bend afterwards. Or, you could see Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend in the morning, then catch the 1:30 PM Lake Powell Rainbow Bridge Boat tour, which would wrap up around 8 PM.
If that sounds like too long of a day, we certainly wouldn’t blame you! There is another way you could see Rainbow Bridge, Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend, and have it all done in time for lunch: fly over Rainbow Bridge and Lake Powell! Fixed wing airplanes fly out of the Page Municipal Airport over Lake Powell and Rainbow Bridge first thing in the morning. In just 30 minutes time in the air, you’ll see more than you ever could by boat or car. After your plane lands, you could then easily visit Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend.
Antelope Canyon tours must be booked in advance. Horseshoe Bend may be visited at your leisure, or with a combination Horseshoe Bend Slot Canyon and Overlook tour.
Hope that helps – safe traveling!
Alley
I’m planning on going in May with my friend to see Horse Shoe Bend/Antelope Canyon, do we need to plan tours or can we hike to these places on our own?
Hi Miranda, and thanks for stopping by.
For Horseshoe Bend, you can simply go there at your convenience. It is located 5 miles South of the town of Page between mile markers 544 and 545 on US89, and is open 24/7.
For Antelope Canyon, you are required to visit with an authorized guide and/or tour company. Tours should be booked in advance due to the increasing popularity of this slot canyon. How to Book a Tour of Antelope Canyon
If Antelope Canyon tours are sold out, which is a very distinct possibility, there are other slot canyons you can experience that are just as beautiful, but far less crowded. Antelope Canyon Alternative Tours
Good luck and have a good trip!
Alley
Hi Ryan,
Is mid April (this month) ok to visit Horseshoe Bend /Antelope Canyon? Travelling along with 2 kids (9 and 3 yrs old).
Would it be too hot then?
By the way, we are staying in hotel in Scottsdale. Our first day will be going to these two destinations and I believe its a 4hr-drive from our hotel to Page?
Thanks in advance for the helpful tips!
M,
Hi and thanks for stopping by.
April is one of the best times of the year to visit, not to hot at all. Daytime high temperatures should be in the mid ’60’s to ’70’s, with overnight lows in the ’40-50 degree range (that’s Fahrenheit, of course!).
As for your plan to drive to Page from Scottsdale, AZ, 4.5-5 hours one way is a more accurate figure. Don’t be surprised if it takes longer because there are several points of interest you might stop at along the way, including the Verde Valley, Wupatki/Sunset Crater National Monuments (just North of Flagstaff), and the Cameron Trading Post, just to name a few. You need to time your return trip so that you avoid driving at night, especially on the leg from Page to Flagstaff since artificial lighting is scarce to non-existent on that section of the highway US89. Is there any way you can modify your plans to stay overnight in Page? You’ll have a much more relaxed time that way. Page hotels run the gamut from Motel to 6 to Marriott and everything in between both price-wise and in terms of amenities. To check availability, click here ->: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotels-g60834-Page_Arizona-Hotels.html
Good luck and happy traveling,
Alley
My daughter and I have booked a week in Sedona and we plan a taking a day trip to visit Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon – the tours from Sedona are out of our budget , can we drive ourselves to visit both of these places in one day? Thank you
Hi Courtney and thank you for visiting our site.
You absolutely can drive yourself to both Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon!
The drive from Sedona to Page takes approximately 3 hours. Time permitting, you might stop at Wupatki/Sunset Crater National Monument on the way, just outside of Flagstaff. Admission to Horseshoe Bend is free, but since Antelope Canyon is located on Navajo Indian Tribal Lands, you must visit with a licensed guide. The cost is $40/adult or $20 per child up to 12, plus an $8 per person Navajo Parks & Recreation fee. Plan on spending 90 minutes – 2 hours at each attraction.
Just make sure you head back to Sedona before it starts getting dark. Artificial lighting is kept to a bare minimum on the roads up here, plus deer, elk and other animals like to congregate near them at night, raising the risk of an accident.
Happy traveling!
Alley
I’m from Hong Kong. I’d like to know more the Antelope tour. What’ll be the time to arrive Antelope? For the tour, is it group tour or private tour?
Thanks for attention.
Hi David,
Thank you for visiting our site!
Tours to Antelope Canyon actually depart several times a day to both the Upper and Lower sections. The tour will not be private, unless you make prior arrangement with the tour outfitter for such a service. This would probably involve you paying for all seats on the tour vehicle, which could get quite expensive.
That said, the best time to tour Antelope Canyon is during the mid-day hours between 10 AM and 1 PM. For more information on tour schedules, outfitters and logistics, click here ->: https://antelopecanyon.az/how-to-book-a-tour-for-antelope-canyon/
Hope that helps. Happy travels to you!
Alley
hello, we would like to visit the horseshoe and antelope canyons, could this be done with a 2 year old?
Hello Dee,
Thank you for visiting our site!
It is possible to enjoy Horseshoe Bend Overlook and Antelope Canyon with a 2-year-old, as long as you’re aware of some important issues.
The Horseshoe Bend Overlook Trail is relatively short – about 3/4 of a mile – but the first portion of it requires a slight uphill climb, which might be a bit difficult for a 2-year-old. You should probably be prepared to carry him on this part of the trail. However, the most important consideration is the overlook itself: there are no guardrails at the overlook and it’s a 700′ drop to the river! You must have your child under control in this area. If you decide to skip the walk to the overlook, another way to see Horseshoe Bend is to fly over it. In just 30 minutes, you can see Horseshoe Bend, Glen Canyon Dam and Lake Powell. Children 2 and under fly free. https://horseshoebend.com/see-horseshoe-bend-air/
As for Antelope Canyon, it depends whether you choose to visit Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon. Upper is an easy, flat walk of 100 yards. Lower is a longer canyon with several staircases to navigate, as well as some boulders to scramble around. Here again, you may end up carrying your child in some areas.
Hope that helps! Have a wonderful visit to Page,
Alley
Hi
We are visiting in july and will visit Horseshoe Bend and Antelope (have 2 days). We have no problem with the stairs in the lower Antelope but I wonder if we will be to big (around 100 kg), I read it was very narrow. Do you have any experience in that direction?
Hi Henriette,
Thank you for visiting out site, and for your question. The entrance to Lower Antelope Canyon is indeed narrow, but people over 100 kg have entered it successfully. Not knowing factors such as your height and physical fitness level, I cannot speculate as to whether you will be able to as well, but would recommend that you watch the video on this site ->: https://antelopecanyon.az/lower-antelope-full-walkthrough-video/ If you wish, you can watch the first part of the video, then forward to about the 4:00 mark to see the exit of the canyon, without “spoiling the surprise” of the actual heart of the canyon.
Hope that helps! Thank you again for your interest,
Alley
I am looking to visit Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe bend the second week of January. Is it necessary to book a tour or can we hike and view it all on our own? Where would you suggest we start? We are coming from Sedona.
Hello Vanessa, I apologize that we did not reply to your inquiry sooner. We hope you had a wonderful trip! For those of you contemplating a visit to Horseshoe Bend Overlook, Antelope Canyon and other attractions in the Page/Lake Powell area, you’ll find that the winter months feature less traffic along with colder temperatures. It’s a refreshing change of pace from the hectic summer months!
As far as hiking to Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon are concerned, with Horseshoe Bend, you are welcome to drive to the overlook parking lot whenever you wish and hike there on your own. Antelope Canyon is situated on Navajo Indian Tribal lands, therefore, you are required to go with an authorized guide. Tours are available right from the town of Page, AZ, or you can simply go down to the Tribal Park entrance gate on Highway 98 and catch a tour from there. Antelope Canyon tours from Page, AZ are done at scheduled times; the ones from the park entrance gate are first-come/first-served.
Hope you had a great time! Anyone else reading this, if you have any questions, feel free to ask.
I am planning a trip for Oct. 2017 and would love to take a boat tour around Horseshoe Bend. Are their any touring companies that do this? It would also be nice to be picked up and returned to Flagstaff but I probably won’t find both together. Thanks!
Dear Heidi –
BIG TIME KUDOS to you for planning your trip well in advance! October is an amazing time to be here. There are actually several tour companies in the Flagstaff, AZ area that offer pick-ups and drop-offs for the Colorado River Discovery Float Trip. The one I am most familiar with is Great Ventures Tours. Click here for more information on their tour package ->: https://www.greatventures.com/tours.aspx?id=13 Notice the price tag on their tour package is $249+ per person. If you want to save some money and don’t mind an early morning, you can catch the exact same tour (for the most part) out of Grand Canyon South Rim for just $199 per person. Click here for more information and to reserve ->: https://horseshoebend.com/canyon-smooth-water-bus-trip/
Hope that helps. Good luck and have fun!
Alley
Hello Ryan,
My parents (above 75) are visiting USA and I plan to take them to LAS VEGAS for a day and from there take them to the canyons. My mom has her knees replaced and have restricted movement. Do you suggest I take them to the antelope Canyon and the horseshoe bend?
Hi Aritra,
Ryan is out of the office, but as a former resident of Northern Arizona, I am happy to help you!
With your mom’s recent knee replacement, care should definitely be taken as to where you walk. The trail to Horseshoe Bend has a slight uphill incline at the beginning. My own mother, who also has bad knees, took one look at it and said “absolutely not.”
Upper Antelope Canyon, however, might be doable for her. This canyon is only 100 yards in length and is mostly flat, though slightly sandy in some areas. You must go there with an authorized guide, though, and tours are available from either the town of Page, AZ or the Tribal Park Entrance on Highway 98.
Now, let’s get back to Horseshoe Bend. It might still be possible for your mother to experience it – by flying over it! Fixed wing airplanes depart daily from the Page Municipal Airport (weather permitting) and fly over not only Horseshoe Bend, but the Glen Canyon Dam, Lake Powell and its many canyons, plus other amazing formations in just 30 minutes time! For more information, click here ->: https://horseshoebend.com/see-horseshoe-bend-air/
Hope that helps – have a great time!
Alley
Hi
My husband and i are coming over from Australia we wanted to do Antelopes canyon and The Horse Shoe Bends either Sunrise or Sunset is that Possible, or do you know a company that does this
Hi Melanie,
To properly answer your question, we’d need to know if you were planning to drive directly to Page yourself, or were you wanting to catch a tour out of another city?
Due to the remote location of both Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon, you won’t find many tour companies that offer day trips to these locations. Notable exceptions are Detours out of Phoenix https://detoursofthewest.com/phoenix-tours/antelope-canyon/ and Grand Canyon Adventures out of Flagstaff and Sedona ->: https://grandcanyon.com/tours/south-rim-tours/antelope-canyon-horseshoe-bend-from-flagstaff-and-sedona/
If you’re driving to Page, AZ yourself, then seeing both of these attractions is very easy using your own rental car for Horseshoe Bend and an authorized Navajo Tribal guide for Antelope Canyon. For Horseshoe Bend, sunrise and sunset are not ideal times to view this attraction due to the angle of the sun keeping the river in shadow. Just after sunrise through the remaining daylight hours are good, though mid-day hours during the summer months are extremely hot. For Antelope Canyon, mid-day is the best time to explore because the sun directly overhead illuminates the cavern beautifully, which is best for picture taking.
Please don’t hesitate to write again if we can be of further assistance!
Alley
The Antelope Canyon day tour from Phoenix is well worth it in my opinion. It’s amazing how much you can fit in in one day when you’re not driving!
Hi Kate,
Sometimes it’s nice to let someone else take the wheel, isn’t it – after all, vacation is supposed to be about relaxation! By the way, did you take the Phoenix Day tour? If so, do post a review on TripAdvisor, Yelp or other consumer review site. It not only helps future travelers choose the right tour for their needs, it helps the operator determine ways in which they might improve.
Cheers,
Alley
Hi Ryan,
Is it true that you have to hire a guide to go see Antelope Canyon? Also, as far as fees are concern, you pay the entrance fee separate from the guide fee, is that correct?
Thank you for your website. It is very helpful!
Hi Teresa,
Thank you for your compliments on our website!
In answer to your query, yes, an Navajo Nation authorized guide is required to tour Antelope Canyon. There are three companies based in the town of Page and one located at the Tribal Park Entrance Gate on Highway 98 offering tours to Upper Antelope Canyon; for Lower Antelope, there are two companies that also operate at the entrance gate on the highway.
Your entrance fee to either Lower or Upper Canyon (or both), includes an $8 per person tribal park permit fee, which is separate from your tour guide’s fees. If you do choose to visit both Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon, be sure to keep your receipt for this permit fee so you do not have to pay it twice.
Hope that helps!
Hi Ryan,
I am planning a trip to horseshoe bend and antelope canyon in mid march, how is the weather then?
Should I be concerns about rain?
Hi Nancy,
Travelers visiting in March are right to be concerned about inclement weather, including rain and snow. Even if there is no precipitation, March is typically a cooler month, so dressing in layers is recommended, with jackets and gloves advisable should temperatures dip into the lower registers. Be sure to start monitoring weather in the area 7-10 days before your trip date!
Alley
Hi Ryan,
I will be going to Las Vegas in December with my parents. I was thinking of taking a one day road trip to either Antelope cannon or Horseshoe Bend from the Grand Canyon. Are both doable or should we only do one? Also is the view better in the sunrise or the sunset? Thank you for all your help!
Hi Ana,
Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon are only about 10 minutes from each other, and they take about 2 hours each, so you can easily do both. All times are good Antelope Canyon during this time of year, since there are no light beams. Horseshoe Bend kind of depends on what you are looking for. Sunset is most popular, as the sun will be setting in the photograph.
I hope that helps!
Ryan
Ryan, you’re very helpful we might be driving from Scottsdale next week to Page. If we are only spending one night. so we would have a day in a half what would you do? Antelope canyon or horseshoebend? Can you do both? Should we spend 2 nights? What’s Canyon x. Is a boat tour in antelope canyon worth the time ?
Thanks so much Ilene
Hi Ilene,
If you have a day and a half I would recommend you take a look at the article I wrote for a one-day itinerary and spread it out over the extra day. Canyon X is a slot canyon that is near Antelope Canyon physically, but much more difficult to get to. The biggest difference is how much time you have available, and how much you dislike crowds (Canyon X will be more private.) With your limited time, I would recommend you do Antelope Canyon, and if you had the extra time I would add a half day float with Colorado River Discovery or do a tour of Glen Canyon Dam.
I hope that helps!
Ryan
Can we visit the upper and lower Antelope canyon by ourselves without joining the tour?
And how do we get there from Las Vegas?
Hi Tony,
Because Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon are on Navajo Indian Tribal Land, you cannot visit the canyons without an authorized guide. This is for safety reasons as well.
Tours are available from Las Vegas, though on a somewhat limited basis. There are not many companies offering them due to the driving distance (5 hours each way), but here is one that appears reasonably priced ->: https://www.taketours.com/las-vegas-nv/1-day-antelope-canyon-horseshoe-bend-fully-guided-bus-tour-from-las-vegas-624-4794.html Note that it is only available on weekdays, though.
If you wish to visit on a weekend, or have more freedom as far as timing goes, it is more desirable to drive yourself.
Hope that helps.
Alley
Hey Ryan,
A group of us (all young and able bodied) will be driving from Vegas to Horseshoe Bend and lower Antelope Canyon. A few questions if you wouldn’t mind helping us out…
Which one should we do first? We get into Page in the late afternoon/early evening hours. Does lower Antelope Canyon close at a specific time? How do we purchase passes to hike through that area? My thought was to go to lower Antelope Canyon first to walk/climb through before it gets dark and then head to Horseshoe Bend to watch the sun set over it…
Thanks for any input!
Hi Ashlyn,
Thank you for your inquiry. Ryan is out of the office these days, but I’m happy to help you!
If you’re arriving in Page later in the afternoon, I’d actually advise hitting Horseshoe Bend first since the view has a westerly orientation and the canyon is in shadow during sunset.
As for Antelope Canyon, the last tour of the day is typically around 4 PM, or at 3 PM during the winter months. If you happen to arrive too late in the day, simply plan to explore Lower Antelope Canyon the following morning. You would purchase your passes when you turn up for your tour.
Hope that helps!
Alley
My family and I are planning to go there around May for my graduation trip. I was thinking going to the upper or lower canyon because I think those are the most popular ones. Do you know if they have a good weather there during May? Will it still be cold, or windy or really hot?
May has an average of 80 degrees. It can get really windy around 4pm, but you probably won’t be too worried about because the canyons will be closed.
My wife and I in our seventies along with two friends same age are planning a trip to see Antelope Canyon and Vermillion Cliffs, in late Oct. this year. Please let me know where we can find tour guides and purchase tickets for the Slot Canyon Boat ride on the site. We can only walk 50-100 yards on the level. We do have canes for assistance.
Last time we went to Vermillion Cliffs we could only go some distance by car but found no guides or available trips by ATV to get closer. We are great admirers of our glorious South West. Appreciate your help.
Hi Bryavan, You can book Antelope Canyon boat tours by going directly to the site https://antelopecanyonboattours.com. There is no real walking besides getting to the boat from the parking lot at the marina.
If you are interested in Antelope Canyon slot tours, I recommend going to https://antelopecanyon.az to see the different companies. I strongly recommend Upper Canyon if you have mobility issues.
Lastly, if you’re still interested in tours of the Vermilion Cliffs, give our friend Kyle a call. His website is https://www.vermilioncliffs.net/
Hi
Could you advise me who I can call and talk to regarding Horshoe for sundown and possibly drinks, and the doing the upper and lower canyon the following day with a guide?
Hi Heather,
For Horseshoe Bend, you can visit anytime the overlook is open, which is usually between sunrise and sunset. A guide is not necessary to go there. As for having “drinks” there, bringing alcohol is discouraged for safety reasons, plus there are concerns about litter. After your Horseshoe Bend visit, I would recommend going for drinks at any one the local cocktail bars, such as the State 48 Tavern, Gone West Steakhouse, the Dam Bar & Grill, Blue Wine & Tapas Bar, or the Driftwood Lounge at the Lake Powell Resort.
For Upper & Lower Antelope Canyon, a guided tour is required. These would be conducted by two separate companies, but you can book the two tours under one reservation for convenience. Upper & Lower Antelope Canyon Tour Bundle
Hope that helps. Good luck and safe travels!
Alley 🙂