Explore Arizona’s Incredible Lower Antelope Canyon

Last Update July 26th, 2016

Navajo Nation – Page, Arizona

The slot canyons referred to as Upper and Lower Antelope are a truly unique and one of a kind destination. These canyons are naturally formed marvels consisting entirely of Navajo sandstone and formed mostly from flash flooding and erosion. The canyons attract visitors from all over the world on a daily basis year round.

 

Lower Antelope Canyon Tours

Lower Antelope Canyon is a half mile long and 120 feet deep. Tours and entrance are operated independently from the upper canyon. All tourists visiting either slot canyon are required to do so with a Navajo authorized guide. Lower Antelope currently has just 2 guide companies listed. Only one of the companies has a website and that is Ken’s Tours. I reserved my tour through them so they’ll be the ones I discuss. Ken’s Tours only accepts cash and traveler’s checks, so come prepared.

There are two kinds of tours in the canyon – regular and photography tours. The regular tours run every 20 minutes and last 1 hour, 15 minutes. These tours are limited to no more than 15 people. Everyone is welcome to take photos, tripods or monopods are forbidden on the regular tour.

Photography tours run at different times depending on the season, but there are usually at least 2 tours per day. These are limited to 2 hours and a tripod is required (you can rent one if you need).

 

Upper Vs. Lower

Not sure what the difference is, or whether it’s worth visiting both canyons? Although the two have a lot of similarities they also have some distinct differences. Tours can become quite crowded; especially in the more popular upper canyon, famous for the strong beams of light the sun produces mid-day. Both slot canyons offer visitors spectacular vibrant colors when the sun shines overhead; producing deep contrasting textures and layers of sandstone. Upper Antelope is flat, and walked right into from the makeshift parking lot outside of it while Lower Antelope requires descending several sets of metal stairways to enter, with short ladders and stairways to exit.

Years ago I visited the upper canyon and although I was awestruck by it’s beauty I couldn’t help but be distracted by the overcrowded and rushed tours. Hoping to find a more leisurely and relaxed setting I ventured back to take the 2 hour photography tour of Lower Antelope. With just 3 others in the group exploring the half mile length of the canyon was a much more pleasant experience for me.

 

Additional Photos

 

Want To See More?
View the full Antelope Canyon Photo Gallery Here