Antelope Canyon: A Navajo Nation Treasure
Explore the surreal beauty of Antelope Canyon, a natural sandstone masterpiece sculpted by time and revered by the Navajo Nation.
Antelope Canyon, a breathtaking slot canyon carved into Navajo Sandstone, lies on Navajo Nation land near Page, Arizona. This natural wonder is comprised of two main sections: Upper Antelope Canyon (Tsé bighánílíní, or 'the place where water runs through rocks') and Lower Antelope Canyon (Hasdestwazi, or 'spiral rock arches'). Formed over millions of years by the relentless forces of water and wind, the canyon's smooth, flowing walls exhibit a stunning array of colors, from deep reds and oranges to delicate pinks and purples. During certain times of the year, sunlight streams through the narrow openings above, creating magical light shafts that illuminate the canyon floor. To the Navajo people, Antelope Canyon is a sacred site, a place of spiritual significance and natural beauty. Visitors are required to join a guided tour led by Navajo guides, who share their knowledge of the canyon's history, geology, and cultural importance. Exploring Antelope Canyon is an unforgettable experience, offering a glimpse into the power of nature and the rich heritage of the Navajo Nation.
Local tips
- Book your tour well in advance, especially during peak season (spring and summer), as tours often sell out weeks ahead.
- The best time to see the famous light beams in Upper Antelope Canyon is between 11 am and 1 pm from late March through October.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on sand, and dress in layers as the canyon can be cool even in summer.
- Bring a protective cover for your camera or phone to shield it from dust and sand.
- Respect the Navajo Nation's rules and guidelines, and listen to your guide to help preserve this sacred site.
A brief summary to Antelope Canyon
- AZ-98, Page, Arizona, 86040, US
Getting There
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Driving
From Page, Arizona, head east on AZ-98. The turn-offs for Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon are approximately 10-15 minutes from Page. Follow the signs for your chosen canyon (Upper, Lower, or Canyon X). Parking is available at each location, but can fill up quickly during peak season, so arrive early. Parking is free with your tour. Be prepared for a short, sometimes bumpy, ride in an open-air vehicle from the parking area to the entrance of Upper Antelope Canyon. There are no ride-share services available from Page.
