Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend Day Trip from Flagstaff — Lower Slot Canyon, Lake Powell & Navajo Culture
Spend a full day from Flagstaff exploring Lower Antelope Canyon, Lake Powell and the vertiginous Horseshoe Bend. This guided small-group trip blends Navajo cultural insight, tight slot-canyon passages and panoramic river views with practical logistics for a long, rewarding day on the road.
The Experience
Before You Go
Hydrate for the desert
Carry at least 2 liters of water and drink frequently — the Horseshoe Bend walk has no shade and temperatures can spike quickly.
Wear grippy shoes
Expect loose sand, narrow rock steps and metal ladders in Lower Antelope; closed-toe shoes with good traction make movement safer and more comfortable.
Pack light for the slot
Antelope Canyon disallows backpacks, tripods and hiking poles — leave large bags on the van and bring only a phone or small waist pouch for essentials.
Plan for sun exposure
Bring sunscreen, a wide-brim hat and sunglasses for the sun-exposed hikes and viewpoints around Lake Powell and Horseshoe Bend.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Lone Rock Beach on Lake Powell — a quiet shoreline for a quick paddle or photo stop
- •Lees Ferry overlook — a historic Colorado River takeout with mellow wildlife viewing and river history
Wildlife
- •Desert bighorn sheep
- •Red-tailed hawk
Conservation Note
Visitors are asked to follow Navajo guidelines: stay with guides, avoid climbing on fragile formations, and minimize waste; protecting cryptobiotic soils and cultural sites is key to sustaining access.
Antelope Canyon sits on Navajo Nation land and is managed by Diné guides; the slot’s forms are the result of flash floods and wind scouring over millions of years.
Photographer's Notes
- • The narrow choke in Lower Antelope where light concentrates
- • Lake Powell overlook near the Page access road
- • The Horseshoe Bend rim near the main railing for full curve shots
What to Bring
Sturdy closed-toe hiking shoesEssential
Traction for sand, rock steps and the canyon’s ladders makes movement safer.
Sun hat + SPF 30+ sunscreenEssential
Horseshoe Bend and Lake Powell offer no shade; protect skin and eyes from intense desert sun.
2L reusable water bottle or hydration bladderEssential
Ample hydration is essential for the unshaded 1.5-mile round trip and long day in dry air.
Small waist pouch or phone tetherEssential
Antelope Canyon bans backpacks and tripods; use a compact carry option for ID, phone and cash.
Common Questions
How long is the hike to Horseshoe Bend?
The walk is about 1 mile round trip on a dirt trail with minimal shade and moderate footing; allow 30–45 minutes round trip depending on stops.
Are tripods or backpacks allowed in Antelope Canyon?
No — Lower Antelope Canyon prohibits tripods, backpacks and hiking poles for safety and crowd flow; pack minimally and leave larger bags on the vehicle.
Can children join the tour?
Yes — minimum age is 3 years, and Arizona law requires child seats for those under 8; you must bring any required car seats and inform the supplier.
What happens if Lower Antelope is closed due to weather?
If Lower Antelope closes, operators may attempt to secure Upper Antelope access for an extra fee or offer alternatives; you can opt out of the Antelope portion but refunds are limited per supplier policy.
Is this tour suitable for people with mobility concerns?
This tour requires agility and balance for slanted sandstone, ladders and a 1.5-mile exposed walk; guests with mobility issues should notify the supplier in advance.
Are meals and water provided?
Yes — the tour includes bottled water and a group lunch in Page, but bring snacks and extra water if you drink heavily or attend in high heat.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
10 hours
Location
Page, Arizona
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness — you should be able to walk 1.5 miles on uneven terrain and climb steep metal ladders/stairs.
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