Named for the herds of antelope that once wandered the area, Antelope Canyon is a beautiful slot canyon that has come to be an iconic part of Page, Arizona. It sits on Navajo land and is highly protected, but anyone who visits the stunning structure leaves with photographs and memories to last a lifetime. You’ll be able to choose from different tours, and with top-notch service, you’re guaranteed to enjoy your adventure. Read on for seven reasons why you will want to make Antelope Canyon your next vacation spot.
1. Stunning Structure
Antelope Canyon includes several sections, including Upper Antelope Canyon, Lower Antelope Canyon, Secret Antelope Canyon and Canyon X. The slot canyon was formed by many years of flash flooding, which caused water to rush through the canyon and erode the Navajo Sandstone.
Erosion has formed the spectacular slot canyon, a type of canyon that is significantly deeper than it is wide. Its curves and hollows vary in size from three to nine feet wide and 164 feet deep. Its truly magnificent structure has made it known as one of the most spectacular slot canyons in the world.
2. Culture
Antelope Slot Canyon is located within the Navajo Nation and is maintained by the Navajo people. It is highly protected, and in order to tour the Canyon, the guide must be one of the Navajo people. You can’t take tours without a guide.
Should you go to experience one of the Antelope Canyon Navajo tours, your tour guide will be a Native American, born and raised on the Navajo Nation. Because of this, chances are you’ll not only leave having experienced the gorgeous canyon but will also have learned a bit about Navajo traditions, culture and history.
You’ll also be able to hear the Navajo names for the region. The Navajo call the Upper Antelope Canyon Tsé bighánílíní, or “the place where water runs through rocks” and Hazdistazí for the Lower Antelope Canyon, which means “spiral rock arches.” If you’re especially lucky, you may even get to experience the sound of a Navajo flute echoing off the canyon walls.
3. Location
Where is Antelope Canyon? Antelope Canyon is located near the border of Arizona and Utah, making it just a few hours driving distance—or less—from many other remarkable landmarks. Not far away are Grand Canyon National Park, Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument and Lake Powell. Water that flows through Antelope Canyon ends in this magnificent lake. Even closer is the stunning Horseshoe Bend Overlook with dramatic, sheer cliffs overlooking a U-shape bend in the Colorado River.
4. The Light Beams & Shadows
Aside from the Canyon being absolutely gorgeous, it is a must-visit for a few other reasons. The beautiful rock formations are unlike any others, and the rock contains hues of orange, brown and red. What really has made the Canyon more well-known are the incredible shadows and the Antelope Canyon light beams. The beams have been photographed a lot in the last few years, and the photos have ended up all over the internet. These one-of-a-kind light beams are created by the rock formations and the sun being projected onto the Canyon floor. The light beams are best viewed in the summer months during midday. Times and seasons, and even weather will vary the ability to find a light beam, but they can be found in most parts of Antelope Canyon, including Upper Antelope Canyon, Lower Antelope Canyon, and Canyon X.
5. The Photography
As mentioned, the light beams are one of the most photographed parts of the canyon. So, cameras are one of the few items allowed on the tours. The scenery that you can photograph is breathtaking and unlike anything you’ve seen before. They even offer special photography tours to help you get the perfect images. It is important to know that you can take all the photos you want, but if you want to take video, you’ll need a permit. So, make some wonderful memories, and take photos so you can show everyone the amazing things you saw on your tour!
6. We Offer Pickups
If you need a ride to the Canyon, we offer pickups from the Las Vegas Strip as well as from downtown Las Vegas. They are complimentary when you book a tour, but be sure to make a reservation online. If you’re being picked up in a large motorcoach, we have a restroom on board. If you’re picked up in one of our vans instead, we’ll be sure to make stops along the way. If you decide that you want to go on a tour with a large group of friends, we can even arrange a pickup with your group members so you’ll be able to ride together. This way, you’ll be able to travel to Antelope Canyon stress free!
7. There’s a Variety of Ways to Experience the Canyon
Each part of Antelope Canyon has something unique to offer. Each section offers its own unique rock formations, such as the famous Lady in Red at Canyon X, Windswept Maiden at Lower, and Draperies at Upper Antelope Canyon. Secret Canyon boasts smaller tour groups and beautiful scenery, and allows capturing video. There are so many things to see! If you’re looking for a variety of ways to experience the Canyon, tours are offered to see all of its unique parts. You can’t do them all in the same day, though. We would highly recommend coming back again and again to take the different tours that are offered.
The next time you find yourself looking for adventure, put Antelope Canyon at the top of your list. Don’t forget to book your Antelope Canyon tickets for the tour of your choice, and make sure you do a bit of research in advance. We have several blog posts about Antelope Canyon just for this purpose. In all, the time of year and lighting can affect what you’re able to see. No matter what time of year you visit, though, its world-renowned structure, culture and location make it an ideal vacation spot for anyone looking to make lasting memories.
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