Day Trip from Las Vegas to Lower Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend — Slot Canyons and Colorado River Views
Leave Las Vegas for a long, richly visual day across the Colorado Plateau. Explore the ribboned sandstone of Lower Antelope Canyon with a guide, then stand above the slow curl of the Colorado River at Horseshoe Bend—two very different ways the desert carves itself.
The Experience
Before You Go
Hydrate early and often
Carry at least 1–2 liters of water; guides supply bottled water but bring extra for the long drive and desert heat.
Midday for light beams, sunset for colors
Schedule Antelope at midday for slot-canyon shafts; visit Horseshoe Bend near sunset for warm glow—expect more crowds at both times.
Wear grippy, closed-toe shoes
Lower Antelope has stairs and uneven rock; supportive footwear reduces slips in sand and on slick stone.
Bring ID and follow Navajo Nation rules
Admission and guided access are required; carry ID and respect photography and access rules set by your guide.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Drive the nearby Glen Canyon National Recreation Area shoreline for quiet viewpoints
- •Stop at the Navajo Nation craft stands near Page for traditional jewelry and storytelling
Wildlife
- •Desert cottontail rabbit
- •Red-tailed hawk
Conservation Note
Park and Navajo Nation rules focus on limiting foot traffic, preventing vandalism, and requiring guided access to reduce wear; stay on trails and pack out waste.
The canyons and river carved by millions of years of erosion sit on ancestral Diné (Navajo) lands; modern access is managed through guided permits and tribal regulations.
Photographer's Notes
- • Inside Lower Antelope Canyon where light filters down (midday)
- • Horseshoe Bend rim near the central overlook at sunset
- • Glen Canyon Dam overlook for engineered vs. natural contrast
What to Bring
Hydration pack or water bottleEssential
Desert air is dry—easy access to water keeps you safe during the hike and transit.
Sturdy hiking shoesEssential
Closed-toe shoes with grip handle the sand, stairs, and rocky approaches.
Wide-brim hat and UV sunscreenEssential
Protects from intense sun during hikes and at the Horseshoe Bend viewpoint.
Compact camera or smartphone with extra battery
Captures low-light canyon interiors and expansive river overlooks; avoid bulky tripods inside the slot.
Common Questions
Do I need a permit or ticket to visit Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend?
Antelope Canyon requires a guided tour and admission; Horseshoe Bend has a paid parking/entrance area—this tour includes necessary Antelope admission and fees.
How long is the drive from Las Vegas?
Expect about 4.5–5 hours one way depending on traffic and stops; the tour is a full 12–14 hour day including transit and site time.
Are tours wheelchair accessible?
Lower Antelope Canyon has uneven stairs and tight passages and is generally not wheelchair accessible; Horseshoe Bend’s viewpoint has improved access but still includes an uneven path to the rim.
When are the light beams in Antelope Canyon visible?
Light beams are most prominent in late morning to early afternoon when the sun is high; timing can vary seasonally and with cloud cover.
Can I bring a tripod or professional camera gear?
Tripod rules vary by tour operator—compact cameras and phones are fine, but large tripods or extensive setups may be restricted inside the slot canyon.
Is tipping the guide expected?
Tipping is customary for guides who manage logistics, safety, and interpretation—budget 10–20% of the tour cost if service is good.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
12–14 hours
Location
Page, Arizona
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Good for travelers who can handle long periods of sitting, short hikes on uneven terrain, and climbing stairs; minimal endurance required.
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