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Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon Hiking Tours

4.5 (7 731 reviews)

Explore the narrow sandstone corridors of Lower, Upper, or Antelope Canyon X on foot with an experienced Navajo guide. Choose from quick 1-hour walks or adventurous half-day trips that combine kayaking on Lake Powell with secluded canyon hikes.

🏜️ Led by expert Navajo guides
🛶 Kayak and hike combo options
🎫 Canyon entry fees included
⏱️ 1 to 4.5 hour durations
Lower Antelope Canyon Hiking Tour Free Cancellation
4.9 (7 042) ⏱ 1h

Lower Antelope Canyon Hiking Tour

Walk through Lower Antelope Canyon with Navajo guides who share local history, geology, and expert photo tips.

Kayak Antelope Canyon and hike, at Lake Powell Free Cancellation
4.4 (276) ⏱ 4h

Kayak Antelope Canyon and hike, at Lake Powell

Paddle seven miles through deep canyons and hike to scenic viewpoints on a guided water and trail adventure.

Antelope Canyon X Hiking Tour (with Option Upgrade to Photo Tour)
4.6 (197) ⏱ 1h 30min

Antelope Canyon X Hiking Tour (with Option Upgrade to Photo Tour)

Explore the deep sandstone corridors and iconic light pillars of Antelope Canyon X, a quieter alternative near Page.

Antelope Canyon Lake Powell Guided Kayaking and Hike Tour Free Cancellation
4.9 (84) ⏱ 4h

Antelope Canyon Lake Powell Guided Kayaking and Hike Tour

Explore Antelope Canyon by water and land on this four-hour guided kayak, hike, and swim tour from Lake Powell.

Lake Powell Kayak and Water Antelope Canyon Hike Guided Tour Free Cancellation
4.7 (78) ⏱ 4h

Lake Powell Kayak and Water Antelope Canyon Hike Guided Tour

Paddle across Lake Powell to reach the water-only entrance of Antelope Canyon for a guided hike through the red rocks.

Antelope Canyon Kayak and Hike Slot Canyon Free Cancellation
4.7 (26) ⏱ 4h 30min

Antelope Canyon Kayak and Hike Slot Canyon

Kayak through the high walls of Antelope Canyon and hike the lower canyon on this guided Lake Powell adventure.

Upper Antelope Canyon All Hiking Tour Free Cancellation
4.1 (17) ⏱ 2h

Upper Antelope Canyon All Hiking Tour

A guided three-mile round-trip hike to Upper Antelope Canyon with regular shade and water stations along the trail.

Upper Antelope Canyon Hiking Tour
3.2 (10) ⏱ 1h 15min

Upper Antelope Canyon Hiking Tour

A guided 2-mile hike through Upper Antelope Canyon led by a local Navajo guide for experienced walkers.

Page: (VIP) Hogan Upper Antelope Canyon Hiking Tour - Age 8+ New
5.0 (1) ⏱ 2h

Page: (VIP) Hogan Upper Antelope Canyon Hiking Tour - Age 8+

A private two-mile hike into Upper Antelope Canyon with cultural insights from local Navajo guides.

What Visitors Say

Read what travelers share about their experience visiting Antelope Canyon — from practical tips to personal highlights.

C
Carlos T. Spain, Feb 2026
4.5

"Upper Antelope is stunning, but the crowds are intense. We caught the tail end of the light beams around noon, which was magical. Be warned about the bag policy—they made me leave my small fanny pack in the car. The 200ft climb out at the end is a bit of a workout."

E
Emma L. Australia, Dec 2025
4.9

"Opted for Canyon X to avoid the massive crowds and it didn't disappoint. The X-shaped formations are so unique, and our Navajo guide shared some beautiful stories about the land. Much more relaxed pace than the horror stories I've heard about the main Upper canyon tours."

M
Marcus J. Canada, Oct 2025
4.3

"The canyon itself is a 10/10, but the logistics are strict. We did the all-hiking Upper tour which meant a 2-mile walk in the hot sun before even getting to the slot canyon. Bring tons of water in a clear bottle! The sandstone walls inside are breathtaking though."

S
Sophie M. United Kingdom, Sep 2025
4.8

"We booked the kayak and hike combo from Lake Powell. Paddling on the open water was gorgeous, and beaching the kayaks to hike into Water Antelope Canyon was the highlight of our trip. It was so quiet compared to the main canyons. Highly recommend bringing a dry bag."

J
Julia K. Germany, Aug 2025
5.0

"Absolutely mind-blowing geology. We took the Lower Antelope tour and checking in 45 minutes early gave us plenty of time to get sorted. The V-shaped walls are so tight in places, it feels like another planet. Our guide kept the group moving safely despite how busy it was."

D
David R. United States, Jul 2025
5.0

"Did the Lower Antelope hike with Dixie's tours and it was incredible. Navigating the ladders down into the canyon felt like a real adventure. Our guide was awesome at showing us the best angles for photos and adjusting our phone settings. Definitely wear good sneakers!"

What to Expect on Your Antelope Canyon Hiking Tour

Hiking through Antelope Canyon is an unforgettable journey into one of the most famous slot canyons on Earth. You will navigate narrow, winding sandstone corridors sculpted by millions of years of flash floods, all while learning about the deep cultural significance of the land from your Navajo guide.

☀️

Iconic Light Beams

If you visit Upper Antelope Canyon during the midday hours between April and October, you might witness spectacular shafts of sunlight illuminating the canyon floor.

🪜

Thrilling Ladders

Lower Antelope Canyon requires an adventurous spirit, as you will descend five flights of steep metal stairs and climb through tight, V-shaped rock gaps.

🏜️

Navajo Storytelling

Every tour is led by an authorized Navajo guide who shares traditional Diné creation stories and explains the spiritual importance of the canyon.

🛶

Kayak and Hike Combos

Some tours combine a peaceful paddle across Lake Powell with a secluded hike into water-accessible sections of the canyon, far from the massive crowds.

📸

Canyon X Formations

Explore the dramatic, soaring walls of Antelope Canyon X, a quieter alternative known for its distinct X-shaped sandstone formations and excellent photography opportunities.

Things to Know Before Booking

Visiting Antelope Canyon requires careful planning due to strict Navajo Nation regulations and massive global popularity. Here is what you need to know before securing your spot.

Mandatory Guided Tours

Independent exploration is completely illegal. You must book a guided tour with an authorized Navajo-led operator to enter any section of the canyon.

Book Months Ahead

Tours sell out extremely quickly, especially for the peak midday time slots. You should secure your tickets several months in advance to guarantee entry.

Navajo Permit Fees

A $15 Navajo Parks & Recreation permit fee is required per person, per day. Check your tour details carefully, as some operators include this in the ticket price, while others require you to pay it separately at check-in.

Strict Bag Policy

Backpacks, purses, fanny packs, and large bags are strictly prohibited to protect the narrow canyon walls. Bring only a clear water bottle, ideally with a carrying strap.

Photography Restrictions

Tripods, monopods, selfie sticks, and drones are banned on standard sightseeing tours. If you want to use professional gear, you must book a specialized photography tour.

Age and Fitness Limits

While many tours are family-friendly, some strictly-walking Upper Antelope tours do not allow children under 8. Lower Antelope Canyon requires navigating steep metal stairs and uneven terrain.

Arrival Time and Time Zones

Tour operators require you to check in 45 to 80 minutes before departure. Pay close attention to the local Arizona time zone (Mountain Standard Time), as late arrivals will miss the tour and will not receive a refund.

Which Antelope Canyon Hiking Tour Is Best for You

Lower Antelope Hiking TourUpper Antelope Hiking TourKayak & Hike ComboCanyon X Tour
Duration 1 to 1.5 hours1.5 to 2 hours4 to 4.5 hours1.5 hours
Best for Adventurous visitors, families with older kidsSeeing light beams, visitors avoiding steep laddersActive travelers, avoiding crowds, water loversPhotography, quieter experience
Terrain / Effort Steep metal stairs, ladders, narrow V-shaped corridorsFlat sandy walk (A-shaped), but requires a 200ft exit climbPaddling open water plus hiking secluded slot canyonsModerate walking, distinct X-shaped walls
Price from $94$99$79$89

Plan Your Visit to Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon tours operate daily, year-round. Tour operator offices in Page generally run from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM Arizona Time (Mountain Standard Time).

  • Morning Tours: Usually begin between 7:30 AM and 9:00 AM.
  • Peak Tours: Run from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM and are the most popular for viewing light beams.
  • Afternoon Tours: Depart around 1:40 PM to 3:50 PM. The 4:00 PM slots are seasonal and only available from April 1st through September 30th.

Always double-check your specific operator's schedule and check-in requirements, as you must arrive 45 to 80 minutes prior to departure.

Antelope Canyon is located on Navajo Nation land near the city of Page, Arizona. There is no direct public transportation to the canyons, so driving or booking a commercial bus tour is required.

  • From Las Vegas: Approximately a 5-hour drive via I-15 N and US-89 S.
  • From Phoenix: Roughly a 5-hour drive heading north on I-17 and US-89.

Most walking tours require you to meet directly at the tour operator's office along Highway 98. If you are doing a kayak and hike combo, you will typically meet at the Antelope Point Public Launch Ramp at Lake Powell.

The absolute best time to visit Antelope Canyon depends on what you want to see:

  • For Light Beams: Visit between April and October and book a midday tour (11:00 AM to 1:00 PM) in Upper Antelope Canyon.
  • For Milder Weather: Spring and fall offer excellent lighting and comfortable hiking temperatures compared to the scorching summer heat.
  • To Avoid Crowds: Winter months (November to February) are much quieter, though the famous light beams will not be visible due to the sun's lower angle.

Warning: The monsoon season runs from July to September. During this time, there is a high risk of flash floods, which can cause sudden tour cancellations for safety.

Antelope Canyon is not wheelchair or stroller accessible due to the deep sandy floors, rocky terrain, and narrow passageways.

  • Upper Antelope Canyon: Best for seniors or those with minor mobility issues as the canyon floor is flat. However, recent route changes require visitors to climb a 200-foot elevation change with stairs to exit.
  • Lower Antelope Canyon: Highly discouraged for the elderly or anyone with cardiovascular or joint issues. The route requires descending five flights of steep metal stairs and navigating tight, uneven ledges.

Service animals are strictly prohibited inside the canyon to protect the delicate environment.

Facilities at Antelope Canyon are very basic, as it is a protected natural environment.

  • Parking: Ample parking is available at the tour operators' offices and check-in areas.
  • Restrooms: Porta-potties or basic restrooms are available at the check-in gates. There are no restrooms inside the canyons, so use the facilities before your tour begins.
  • Food & Drink: There are no concessions inside the park. You must bring your own water, and it is highly recommended to carry it in a clear bottle with a strap.

Because Antelope Canyon is a sacred Navajo site, strict rules are enforced to protect the landscape and ensure safety:

  • No Bags: Backpacks, purses, fanny packs, and large camera bags are banned. Some operators allow small transparent bags, but it is best to only bring a water bottle.
  • No Tripods or Drones: Tripods, monopods, selfie sticks, and drones are strictly prohibited on standard tours.
  • Dress Code: Closed-toe, sturdy shoes are required. Sandals and high heels are not allowed.
  • Leave No Trace: Vandalism, littering, and carving into the sandstone walls are illegal. You must stay with your Navajo guide at all times.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I visit Antelope Canyon without a tour guide?

No, independent exploration is strictly prohibited. The canyon is located on sacred Navajo Nation land, and all visitors must book a guided tour with an authorized Navajo-led operator.

What is the difference between Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon?

Upper Antelope is an A-shaped canyon with a flat sandy floor, famous for its midday light beams. Lower Antelope is a V-shaped canyon that requires climbing down steep metal stairs and navigating tighter, winding corridors.

Are bags or backpacks allowed on the tour?

No, backpacks, purses, and large bags are strictly prohibited to prevent damage to the narrow canyon walls. You should only bring your phone, camera, and a clear water bottle.

How much is the Navajo Nation permit fee?

The Navajo Parks & Recreation entrance fee is $15 per person, per day. Some tour operators include this in their ticket price, while others require you to pay it separately at check-in.

When is the best time to see the light beams?

The iconic light beams are best viewed in Upper Antelope Canyon during the midday hours (11:00 AM to 1:00 PM) on sunny days between April and October.

Can I bring a tripod for my camera?

Tripods, monopods, and selfie sticks are banned on all standard sightseeing tours to keep groups moving. You must book a specialized photography tour if you want to use professional gear.

Are the tours safe from flash floods?

Yes, operators monitor the weather closely and will immediately cancel tours if there is any risk of flash flooding. The canyons are also equipped with safety sirens and emergency ladders.

Can children go on the Antelope Canyon tours?

Yes, but with restrictions. Upper Antelope is better for young kids due to the flat ground, though some strictly-walking tours are restricted to ages 8 and up. Lower Antelope allows kids but requires extreme caution on the ladders.

What kind of shoes should I wear?

You must wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes like sneakers or hiking boots. Sandals, flip-flops, and high heels are dangerous on the sandy terrain and metal ladders, and are often banned by operators.

How early do I need to arrive for my tour?

Tour operators require guests to check in 45 to 80 minutes before the scheduled departure time. Be very careful with the local time zone (Mountain Standard Time), as late arrivals will miss the tour without a refund.

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