Ligai Si Anii Night Tour: Slot Canyon Hike and Stargazing near Page, AZ
Step into a quiet slot canyon after dark and watch the Milky Way rise above sculpted red walls. Led by Navajo guides, the Ligai Si Anii Night Tour blends short canyon hiking with guided stargazing for an intimate desert sky experience.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring extra batteries
Headlamps are provided but cold and sand drain batteries quickly—carry spares for lights and camera gear.
Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes
The trail is short but uneven and sandy; ankle-supportive footwear keeps you stable on descents and climbs.
Protect camera gear from sand
Use lens caps, a small towel, and a sealed bag—sand is fine and will foul gear rapidly.
Respect Navajo customs and quiet hours
Guides share cultural stories; follow their lead on photography, speaking softly, and staying on permitted paths.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Climb a short rim bluff just outside the canyon for uninterrupted Milky Way panoramas
- •Listen for the subtle echo patterns in the narrows—each alcove refracts sound differently at night
Wildlife
- •Desert coyote (often heard at dusk)
- •Nocturnal bats hunting near canyon openings
Conservation Note
Tours limit group size and follow Navajo Nation rules to reduce erosion and cultural impact; visitors should stay on routes, pack out waste, and avoid climbing delicate formations.
This landscape is part of Navajo Nation; the slot canyons formed as flash floods carved through layers of Navajo sandstone, and stars hold navigational and cultural significance in local stories.
Photographer's Notes
- • Inside the narrow curve where striations catch low light
- • The canyon mouth looking up to the Milky Way
- • A rim vantage a short walk from the trailhead for wide-sky compositions
What to Bring
Headlamp with fresh batteriesEssential
Hands-free light for the canyon approach and moving safely at night
Sturdy closed-toe shoesEssential
Traction and toe protection for sandy, uneven surfaces
Warm layer or insulated jacketEssential
Desert nights cool quickly—bring warm clothing even after hot days
Compact tripod and remote shutter
Necessary for sharp Milky Way and star-trail photography at long exposures
Common Questions
How long is the hike inside the canyon?
The canyon portion is brief—around 30 yards with mild descent and ascent—built into a roughly two-hour tour including stargazing.
Are flashlights or phone flashes allowed inside the canyon?
Guides discourage flash photography inside to preserve the experience; they provide headlamps and recommend low-light techniques.
Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
Yes; the physical demand is low, but the slot has steps and uneven ground, so mobility limitations should be considered.
What happens if it rains or storms?
The Navajo guides cancel tours for safety if there's risk of flash flooding or severe weather; full refunds are available with 24-hour cancellation policy.
Can I charge camera batteries or phones on site?
There are no charging facilities at the meeting point; bring spare batteries or a power bank.
Do I need a permit to visit the canyon independently?
Ligai Si Anii sits on Navajo Nation land and is accessed via guided tours to protect the site; independent visits are not permitted.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2 hours
Location
Page, Arizona
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Light fitness; able to walk short unpaved sections and step up/down a few rock ledges
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