Discover Antelope Canyon

No other slot canyon in the southwest has been featured in more photographs or has been visited more than Antelope Canyon, which is sometimes referred to as "The Corkscrew." Situated in the far north and central region of Arizona, the canyon is just a few miles from Page, Arizona and scenic Lake Powell. Set on Navajo lands, the canyon is a great destination for hikers. Guided tours of both the upper and lower canyon are available.

Canyon Composition.

Gorgeous color gradations of red sandstone and corkscrew formations comprise this most popular slot canyon. The corkscrews are actually petrified sand dunes as Antelope Canyon was once a part of an ancient ocean. As light streams into the canyon, the colors of the rock show all their hues to photographers trying to get the perfect shot of sunlight falling on these illuminated rocks. Most photographers agree that the canyon's best light is at high noon. This slot canyon was essentially formed by flash floods that eroded the sandstone over time.

Upper Antelope Canyon.

The Navajo refer to this portion of the canyon as Tse bighanilini, or "the place where water runs through rock." This is the most visited section of the canyon as it requires no climbing-it is completely at ground level. Photographers favor it because sun beams enter through cracks to reveal unsurpassed shots for their cameras. Photographers surmise the most powerful beams seem to strike the canyon between May and September. Winter lights seems to make the canyon light appear more muted and less vibrant-but still beautiful in its own right. The rock surface has a polished appearance from centuries of erosion and visitors can sense the waves that left their mark on the smooth texture of the canyon.

Lower Antelope Canyon.

In the Navajo language Hasdeztwazi means "spiral rock arches;" this is their name for the lower portion of Antelope Canyon. This section requires visitors to traverse longer and narrower sections as well as climb the metal staircases. It is well worth the extra effort, however, as the lower canyon offers a fascinating glimpse into the stunning geography of the formation. At one point not so long ago, visitors to the lower canyon relied on ropes and ladders in order to see this section.

Photos of Antelope Canyon.

The Canyon is an incredible visual feast. The forces of water, wind and climatic extremes over millions of years created this amazing scultpture of shapes and textures with a dazzling array of color.

Guided Tours.

The easiest way to book a tour-the only way to gain interior canyon access-is by scheduling a guided tour.Tours can be arranged at the John Wesley Powell Memorial Museum in Page. The Navajo Tribe also licenses tour operators and prices vary depending on the type of tour chosen. For instance, photography tours may run slightly under fifty dollars. One reason that guided tours are mandated is due to the risk of flash flooding that has occurred in the past, especially during monsoon season. Guided tours of Antelope Canyon are safe and filled with knowledgeable guides who can point out the best attractions.

Getting There.

Antelope Canyon is located on AZ 98 on the Navajo Reservation. It is four miles east of Page, Arizona which is about 130 miles north of Flagstaff, Arizona on US89.

Antelope Canyon Map.

Click to Enlarge

Where To Stay.

Since Page, Arizona is only four miles from Antelope Canyon, Page Hotels are the most convenient. Page also offers a selection of bed and breakfast inns. The nearest larger town is Flagstaff which is about 130 miles south of Page. Click here for a wide selection of hotels in Flagstaff.

More Information.

Antelope Canyon Park Office
P.O.Box 4803
Page, AZ 86040
(928) 698-2808