Upper Antelope Canyon & Glen Canyon Day Trip from Sedona or Flagstaff — Horseshoe Bend, Lake Powell Views
A full-day run from Sedona or Flagstaff that stitches together Upper Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, Glen Canyon Dam and Lake Powell. Expect dramatic light inside the slot, wide desert vistas from the overlooks, and a long day of photo stops and short walks.
The Experience
Before You Go
Start early to beat heat and crowds
Departures begin around 6–7:30 a.m.; early starts mean softer light in the canyon and fewer people at Horseshoe Bend.
Bring at least 1–2 liters of water
Desert sun and a long day of standing and walking make hydration a must.
Wear closed-toe shoes with grip
You’ll walk on uneven, sandy, and sometimes narrow canyon floors — stable footwear reduces slips.
Protect camera gear from sand
Use a zip-lock or dry bag for lenses and clean gear between shots to avoid abrasive grit.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Pull over at lesser-known Glen Canyon overlooks for different perspectives of Lake Powell’s inlets
- •Ask guides about the Echo Cliffs viewpoints along the drive for dramatic sedimentary banding close-ups
Wildlife
- •Desert cottontail rabbit
- •Ravens and red-tailed hawks
Conservation Note
Stay on designated paths, avoid touching canyon walls (oils damage sandstone), and follow local guides — tourism impacts fragile desert soils and cultural sites.
This corridor sits on Navajo Nation land; the slot canyons and surrounding sandstone record millions of years of desert deposition and were historically traversed by indigenous peoples.
Photographer's Notes
- • Upper Antelope Canyon interior curve where light beams form
- • Horseshoe Bend overlook facing downstream
- • Glen Canyon Dam viewpoint for scale shots of Lake Powell
What to Bring
Closed-toe hiking shoesEssential
Provide traction on sandy, uneven canyon floors and rocky overlooks.
1–2L water bottle or hydration bladderEssential
Keeps you hydrated during long drives, walks, and desert heat.
Wide-brim sun hat & sunscreenEssential
Essential protection from intense desert sun at overlooks and while waiting outdoors.
Camera or smartphone with good low-light capability
Upper Antelope Canyon’s interior light is dim and dynamic — better sensors or a small tripod help capture it.
Common Questions
How long is the slot canyon portion of the tour?
The guided visit to Upper Antelope Canyon is approximately 90 minutes, including time for photos and moving through narrow sections.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes — tours are popular and capacity is limited; book ahead and confirm hotel pickup 72 hours before departure.
Is this trip suitable for children?
Children are welcome but Arizona law requires car seats for kids 8 years and younger; bring your own booster/seat and check mobility requirements for uneven terrain.
What happens if it rains?
Slot canyons are vulnerable to flash floods; operators may cancel for safety and offer refunds or rescheduling per their policy — verify cancellation terms when booking.
Can I take photos inside Antelope Canyon?
Yes — photography is allowed, but follow your guide’s instructions to protect the sandstone and other guests; tripods may be restricted during busy periods.
How much walking is involved?
Expect multiple short walks on unpaved, uneven terrain, including about 90 minutes inside the canyon; a moderate fitness level is recommended.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
9.5–11.5 hours
Location
Page, Arizona
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness required; participants should be ambulatory and comfortable with short, uneven walks and standing 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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