Lower Antelope Canyon - Arizona
- Cathy Curti
- Jan 31
- 2 min read
Lower Antelope Canyon is an enchanting place with its smooth, swirling rock formations. On the day we visited, the experience was even more magical as snow gently fell between the canyon walls, landing on us as we navigated the narrow, winding path. The striking interplay of light and shadow from the towering walls surrounding us added to the wonder.
Before we made our way down into the canyon slot, we were treated to a Navajo hoop dance. Navajo hoop dancing is a traditional Native American dance that utilizes hoops for storytelling. This dance is a storytelling art form that employs hoops to form shapes and symbols. The significance of the dance includes the circle of life: The hoop represents the endless circle of life, or "recurrence." The dance reflects the rhythms of nature, such as heartbeats, seasons, and gestation periods.
Lower Antelope Canyon, located in the Navajo Nation, Arizona, is a slot canyon shaped by millions of years of erosion. It is renowned for its vibrant colors and wave-like rock formations.
How it formed:
Over millions of years, flash floods and other natural forces eroded the Navajo sandstone
During the monsoon season, rainwater surged into the canyon's basin, gathering sand and increasing in velocity
This combination of sand and water wore down the canyon's pathways, deepening them and smoothing the edges
Periods of hot, dry weather led to sandstorms that polished the canyon walls, resulting in a swirled, striated appearance
The Navajo Nation Reservation is over 25,000 sq. miles and covers over four states: NM, UT, CO, and AZ. Therefore, the laws, regulations, and policies brought forth by the Navajo Nation is governed by the Navajo Nation Laws and Policies.
Can I visit the canyon on my own on foot? No, you cannot visit Antelope Canyon on your own. You must take a guided tour with an authorized Navajo guide.
Why you need a guide
Safety: Guided tours help prevent vandalism and ensure the safety of visitors.
Access: Only authorized guides can access the canyon.
How to make a reservation
Make a reservation with a Navajo Nation Parks & Recreation-authorized tour operator. https://navajonationparks.org/
Book in advance, as tours can sell out.
What to bring
Good walking shoes, especially for Lower Antelope Canyon- there will be climbing up and down steep stair cases.
Bags and back packs are not allowed in the Canyons. You can take a water bottle, phones and cameras are allowed. The Guides give ample opportunities to take photos. Videos are not allowed - Most tour companies on Navajo land, where Antelope Canyon is located, have strict rules against video recording. The narrow canyon pathways can easily become crowded if everyone is filming, causing delays for other tour members.
When to visit
The off-season from November to late February, especially January, can have better rates and fewer people.
Antelope Canyon may close during heavy rain or snow, especially from June to September.
We booked our tour through Dixie's Tours - for prices and details see link
Our Gratitude and thanks to the Dine peoples of the Navajo Nation for sharing your beautiful lands with us.
Bill & Cat