Lower Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend: Navajo Guided Day Tour

Summary

Lower Antelope’s ladders, Navajo stories and Horseshoe Bend walk

You’ll step down into Lower Antelope Canyon’s swirling walls with a Navajo guide sharing stories along the way, then pause for snacks before heading out to Horseshoe Bend’s overlook. Expect laughter, orange dust on your hands, and moments where words just don’t cut it.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the echo — voices bouncing off the red stone as we lined up at Lower Antelope Canyon. Our guide, who grew up nearby, grinned when someone asked if he ever got tired of the view. “Not once,” he said. The descent felt steeper than I’d pictured (those 74 steps are no joke), and my hands brushed against cool rock that left a bit of orange dust on my palm. It smelled faintly like rain even though the sky was clear — maybe just trapped moisture from last night.

Inside the slot canyon it got quiet except for camera shutters and low laughter. Our guide pointed out shapes in the walls — an eagle here, a wave there — and shared bits about Dine culture I’d never read before. I tried to take a photo but honestly, none of them looked right compared to what my eyes saw. There were ladders too, five of them, some metal feeling almost cold through my jeans when I sat down for a second (I needed it). We stopped for water and snacks at a picnic spot after, legs already wobbly.

Navajo Mountain stood out in the distance as we drove toward Horseshoe Bend. The path there is flat but dusty; I kicked a pebble most of the way without really noticing until it skittered off into some brush. The overlook itself? Everyone went quiet for a minute — not out of politeness but because you just sort of have to stop talking when you see that curve in the river below. Someone next to me whispered “wow” in Spanish and I think that summed it up better than anything else.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Lower Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend

• Descend 74 steps into Lower Antelope Canyon
• Hike 1.1 miles through canyon chambers
• Receive photo and cultural tips from guides
• Stop at picnic area for restroom and snacks
• Pass by Navajo Mountain viewpoint
• Pass by Grand Staircase-Escalante area
• Hike less than half mile to Horseshoe Bend overlook

Top questions

How difficult is the Lower Antelope Canyon hike?

The Lower Antelope Canyon hike is moderate with 1.1 miles total walking, including 74 steps down and several ladders inside.

Is Horseshoe Bend accessible for people with mobility issues?

The path to Horseshoe Bend Overlook is flat and smooth but about 1.5 miles roundtrip; check your comfort level before booking.

Are backpacks or bags allowed in Lower Antelope Canyon?

No bags or backpacks are allowed inside Lower Antelope Canyon—including purses and hydration packs.

How long does this tour take from start to finish?

This is a half-day tour covering both Lower Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend with stops in between.

Is lunch included on this tour?

No full lunch is provided but snacks and bottled water are included; extra food can be purchased at the picnic stop.

Can I bring my camera or GoPro?

Cameras are allowed but no tripods, monopods, selfie sticks, GoPros or camcorders inside Lower Antelope Canyon.

What should I wear for this day trip from Page?

Wear comfortable walking shoes and clothes you don’t mind getting dusty; layers help as temperatures change quickly in Arizona.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle from Page, all entry fees for both Lower Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend, bottled water throughout the journey, plus snacks at a picnic area before heading onward—just bring yourself (and maybe leave your bag behind).