One of the most photographed slot canyons in the world. Narrow sandstone walls carved by flash floods into flowing, wave-like shapes. The light beams that pour in from above are surreal. Guided tours only - not a traditional hike but an unforgettable experience.
This trail is part of Slide Rock State Parkin the Sedona region — explore all hikes in Arizona.
Antelope Canyon, Page, AZ
Antelope Canyon isn't really a hike - it's a guided walk through one of the most surreal natural formations we've ever seen. But it absolutely belongs on this site because if you're anywhere near Page, Arizona, you need to experience it.
We did Upper Antelope Canyon, which is the more famous of the two sections. You can only enter with a guided tour operated by Navajo guides, since the canyon sits on Navajo Nation land. Our guide was excellent - knowledgeable about the geology, the light, and exactly where to stand for the best photos.
The canyon itself is hard to describe. The sandstone walls have been carved by centuries of flash floods into these flowing, organic shapes that look almost liquid. The walls curve and twist above you, and the colors shift from deep orange to purple to gold depending on where the light hits. It's like walking through a sculpture.
The famous light beams happen around midday in summer (roughly 11am-1pm) when the sun is directly overhead and shafts of light pour down through the narrow slot openings above. We went at noon in July and caught several beams. Our guide tossed sand into the air to make the beams visible, which was a nice touch. If you want the beams, book a midday tour in late spring or summer.
It is crowded. Very crowded. The tours move groups through in sequence and you're sharing the narrow canyon with your tour group the entire time. There's a constant stream of people and you have limited time at each spot. Our guide gave us maybe 2-3 minutes at each photo point before moving the group along. It can feel rushed.
The photography is incredible even with a phone camera. The colors inside the canyon are so saturated that photos barely need editing. Our guide actually helped with camera angles and settings, which was a nice bonus.
A few important notes: tours are not cheap ($60-100+ per person depending on the tour type), you must book in advance especially for midday tours, and the canyon can close without notice due to flash flood risk. It's also not accessible for wheelchairs or people with mobility issues - the footing is sandy and uneven.
Despite the crowds and the cost, we'd do it again in a heartbeat. There's nowhere else on Earth that looks like this.
See our photos from this hike on Instagram @best.hikes.usa
Book Well in Advance
Tours sell out weeks or months ahead, especially midday summer tours that promise light beams. Book as early as possible through an authorized Navajo tour operator.
Midday for Light Beams
The famous light beams only appear when the sun is directly overhead, roughly 11am-1pm from late March to early October. If light beams matter to you, book accordingly.
Upper vs Lower Canyon
Upper Antelope is more famous and easier to walk through (flat, sandy floor). Lower Antelope requires climbing ladders but is narrower and often less crowded. Both are stunning.
Protect Your Camera Gear
Sand gets everywhere. The guides throw sand for the light beam photos and it's constantly in the air. Keep lens caps on when not shooting and consider a dust cover for your camera bag.
Flash Flood Risk
The canyon was formed by flash floods and they still happen. Tours cancel when there's any flood risk. Don't plan your visit on a day when rain is forecast anywhere in the region.
Budget for the Cost
Tours range from $60-100+ per person. It's expensive but the experience is unlike anything else. Photography tours cost more but give you more time and smaller groups.
Big John's Texas BBQRestaurant
Smoked meats and huge portions. Exactly what you want after a day in the desert. The brisket is legit.
View in Google MapsEl TapatioRestaurant
Solid Mexican food in Page. Good portions, reasonable prices, and the salsa is excellent. Hit the spot after our hike.
View in Google MapsThe Bean Coffee HouseCafe
Good coffee and pastries in Page. Nice place to fuel up before heading out or wind down after.
View in Google Maps
ModerateClassic Sedona red rock hike with stunning formations, slickrock scrambling, and views that look straight out of a movie. Not too long, not too hard, but absolutely gorgeous the entire way. One of the best introductions to what Sedona hiking is all about.
View Trail
EasyThe iconic Colorado River overlook near Page, Arizona. Short walk to one of the most photographed spots in the Southwest. The massive horseshoe-shaped meander 1,000 feet below is jaw-dropping in person. Easy hike, incredible payoff.
View Trail
EasyEasy loop through Slide Rock State Park along Oak Creek with red rock canyon walls, an old apple orchard, and access to the famous natural rock waterslide. Great for families or a relaxed afternoon in one of Sedona's most scenic spots.
View TrailThese are the items we bring on every hike. Links help support this site at no extra cost to you.
Desert trails are rocky and loose — ankle support is non-negotiable on this terrain.
We use: Merrell Moab 3 Mid WP
Bring 4+ liters in Arizona heat. Most desert trails have no water sources — run out and you're in serious trouble.
We use: CamelBak Chute Mag 32oz
There's almost no shade on Arizona's trails. A hat is not optional in this environment.
No tree canopy means full UV exposure. Reapply every 2 hours or after sweating.
We use: Neutrogena Sport Face SPF 70
You'll need the extra capacity for 4+ liters of water, sun protection, food, and a first aid kit.
We use: Osprey Talon 22
Starting early to beat the heat is smart — you'll need a headlamp at the trailhead before sunrise.
We use: Black Diamond Spot 400
Desert mornings and evenings — especially at elevation — can be genuinely cold. Bring something packable.
We use: Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket
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