Horseshoe Bend to Upper Antelope Canyon: Half‑Day Navajo‑Guided Slot Canyon Tour from Page, AZ
Spend a focused half‑day from Page, AZ exploring two of the Colorado Plateau’s iconic sites: a rim walk to Horseshoe Bend and a Navajo‑guided walk through the light‑filled narrows of Upper Antelope Canyon. Small groups, lunch, and guided photography tips make this an efficient way to see both.
The Experience
Before You Go
Hydrate before and during
There’s limited shade on the rim and sandy terrain in the slot—carry at least 1 liter of water and drink early to avoid overheating.
Wear sturdy shoes
Uneven, sandy footing in Upper Antelope Canyon and on the Horseshoe Bend rim requires closed‑toe shoes with traction.
Protect your camera
Bring a dust cover or sealed bag for gear—sand and fine dust are common inside the slot; a wide lens (16–35mm) is ideal.
Respect Navajo rules
Follow your guide’s directions, stay with the group, and avoid touching the canyon walls to protect fragile formations.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Stop at the short rim viewpoint near the Glen Canyon Dam for a quieter perspective on the river
- •Watch midday light from the upper canyon’s narrowest chambers for subtle color changes and fewer crowds
Wildlife
- •Desert cottontail rabbit
- •Red‑tailed hawk
Conservation Note
Visits are managed to limit impact—stay on paths, follow guide instructions, and avoid touching walls to reduce erosion and preserve fragile surfaces.
Both sites lie within the Navajo Nation and are formed in Navajo Sandstone deposited as dunes in the Jurassic; modern visits are guided by Navajo stewards.
Photographer's Notes
- • Horseshoe Bend main overlook for the classic curve
- • Upper Antelope’s light shaft chambers—ask your guide for the best angle
- • Short rim viewpoint near Glen Canyon Dam for alternate river perspectives
What to Bring
Closed‑toe hiking shoesEssential
Provides traction on sandy, uneven surfaces at the rim and inside the slot canyon.
Water bottle (1–2 L)Essential
Staying hydrated is essential in the high, dry desert—bottled water is provided but bring your own for the walk.
Wide‑angle lens or phone wide mode
Captures the canyon’s tight curves and light shafts more effectively than telephoto lenses.
Light jacket or layers
Temperatures can be cool in the morning or in shaded slot sections, even when the sun is warm at the rim.
Common Questions
How far is the walk to Horseshoe Bend?
The roundtrip rim walk to the Horseshoe Bend overlook is about 1.5 miles total on a mostly flat, exposed trail.
How long is the Antelope Canyon visit?
The guided Upper Antelope Canyon portion is approximately 90 minutes of walking and photo stops inside the slot.
Are children allowed on the tour?
Yes, but Arizona law requires children eight and younger to be in a car seat/booster; guests must provide their own seat.
Is photography allowed inside Antelope Canyon?
Yes—guides often provide camera tips; tripods may be restricted during busy times, so check with your guide before setting up.
What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing with closed‑toe shoes is recommended; bring sun protection for the rim and layers for cooler slot shadows.
Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour requires moderate mobility to navigate sandy, uneven terrain; it’s not recommended for travelers with significant mobility limitations.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
Approximately 5 hours
Location
Page, AZ
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness; able to walk 1.5 miles on uneven terrain and stand for extended periods
Ready to Explore Page?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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