Three-Canyon Photography Tour — Mountain Sheep, Rattlesnake & Owl Canyons (Page, AZ)
Spend 3.5 focused hours photographing three lesser-known slot canyons near Page, Arizona. One hour in Mountain Sheep, Rattlesnake and Owl Canyons gives experienced photographers time to compose dramatic images away from the crowds.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring a compact tripod
Tripods stabilize long exposures in low light and help with focus stacking and HDR; pick a lightweight model for tight canyon sections.
Hydrate and pouch your water
Carry 1–2 liters in a soft-sided pack—rigid bottles are awkward in narrow slots and water is scarce on the trail.
Protect gear from sand
Use lens cloths, zip-lock bags or a camera cover; changing lenses inside slots invites grit into your sensors.
Watch the weather and ask about flash floods
Tours will cancel for dangerous conditions—check local forecasts and heed the guide’s instructions for safety.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •East–west narrows in Rattlesnake Canyon for dramatic side lighting
- •Quiet alcoves in Owl Canyon where textures and color bands are most pronounced
Wildlife
- •Desert bighorn sheep (rim sightings)
- •Common ravens and lizards on warm rock surfaces
Conservation Note
Stick to designated paths, avoid touching fragile sandstone surfaces and pack out all waste; flash floods and human traffic accelerate erosion in narrow slots.
Many canyons in the Page area sit adjacent to Navajo Nation land and contain landscapes that have been part of Indigenous life and travel routes for centuries.
Photographer's Notes
- • Entrance lip of each canyon for compositional setups
- • Midway alcoves where color banding is strongest
- • High vantage along Highway 98 for context shots
What to Bring
Mirrorless or DSLR camera with wide-angle lensEssential
Wide lenses capture the sweeping curves and narrow corridors of slot canyons.
Lightweight tripodEssential
Necessary for long exposures, HDR brackets and precise compositions in low light.
Sturdy trail shoes with gripEssential
Sandy, rocky floors and steps require stable, protective footwear.
Hydration pack or 1–2L waterEssential
Desert sun and exertion dehydrate quickly; carry more water in summer.
Common Questions
How long is the tour and how much time in each canyon?
The tour lasts about 3.5 hours total with one hour allotted in each canyon and ~30 minutes driving time between sites.
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
This experience is marketed to photographers with prior experience—it's not a workshop. Guides focus on access and timing rather than camera instruction.
Are tripods and external lighting allowed?
Tripods are permitted and useful; flash or LED lighting is acceptable but use discretion to avoid disturbing other guests and the environment.
Can I fly a drone in these canyons?
Drone use is generally restricted near Navajo Nation lands and many canyon areas—check local regulations and ask the operator before planning any flights.
What is the meeting point and pickup policy?
Meet at Highway 98 Road & Milepost 302 in Page, AZ. This operator requires everyone to meet at the start point—no custom pickups.
What weather cancels the tour?
Tours are canceled for unsafe weather, especially when flash flood risk is elevated. You’ll receive a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3–4 hours
Location
Page, Arizona
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate: stable footing and the ability to walk on uneven, sandy surfaces for several miles cumulatively.
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