Two Wonders in One Trip
Visiting Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend in One Day
Page, Arizona is home to some of the most photographed landscapes in the American Southwest. Two icons dominate every traveler’s bucket list: Antelope Canyon, with its swirling sandstone passageways and glowing beams of light, Antelope canyon and Horseshoe Bend, a dramatic meander of the Colorado River carved into a perfect horseshoe shape.
The good news? You can see both in one day. Whether you’re passing through on a road trip, staying overnight at Lake Powell Resort, or planning a photography tour, this guide will show you how to maximize your time.
Antelope Canyon: A Natural Masterpiece
A Brief History
Antelope Canyon is a slot canyon located on Navajo land, created over thousands of years by flash flooding and erosion. The Navajo call it Tsé bighánílíní, meaning “the place where water runs through rocks.”
It consists of two separate sections:
- Upper Antelope Canyon – the most popular, known for its famous light beams.
- Lower Antelope Canyon – narrower, less crowded, but equally spectacular.
What to Expect
- Guided tours only: You cannot visit Antelope Canyon without a Navajo guide.
- Duration: Tours last about 60–90 minutes.
- Difficulty: Upper Canyon is an easy, flat walk; Lower Canyon requires climbing stairs and ladders.
- Best time to visit: Late morning to midday (10:30 AM – 12:30 PM) for the strongest light beams.
Photography Tips
- Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the sweeping curves.
- Set your camera/phone to HDR to balance the strong contrasts.
- Wear comfortable shoes – the ground is sandy and uneven.
- Respect the guides’ instructions: flash floods are a real risk, and the canyon is sacred Navajo land.
Book your Antelope Canyon tour early:
Horseshoe Bend: The Iconic Colorado River Curve
Just 10 minutes from Page, Horseshoe Bend is one of the most dramatic overlooks in the U.S. The Colorado River makes a perfect U-turn, surrounded by sheer sandstone cliffs.
Key Facts
- Hike length: 1.5 miles (round trip).
- Difficulty: Easy, but bring water and a hat – the desert sun is intense.
- Best time to visit:
- Sunrise: Soft golden light, fewer crowds.
- Sunset: The cliffs glow orange, but expect more people.
Safety Notes
- The overlook has some guard rails, but much of the edge is open. Stay cautious when taking photos.
- Bring water, especially in summer, where temperatures can exceed 100°F (38°C).
Try a Horseshoe Bend air tour:
How to See Both in One Day: The Perfect Itinerary
Morning – Antelope Canyon
- 8:30–9:00 AM: Arrive in Page and check in with your Navajo guide.
- 10:00–11:30 AM: Guided tour of Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon.
- 11:30–12:00 PM: Browse the small gift shop or grab lunch in Page.
Afternoon – Horseshoe Bend
- 1:00 PM: Drive 10 minutes from Page to Horseshoe Bend parking lot.
- 1:15–2:15 PM: Hike to the overlook, take photos, enjoy the view.
- 2:30–3:30 PM: Optional: book a short helicopter flight for aerial shots.
Evening – Relax at Lake Powell
- 4:00 PM: Check into Lake Powell Resort, enjoy the lake views.
- 6:00 PM: Dinner by the water, or relax in your room with a balcony or jacuzzi.
Where to Stay: Lake Powell Resort and Beyond
Lake Powell Resort
After a day visited Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend
Located right on the lake inside Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, this resort is the best choice if you want a scenic, relaxing base.
- Rooms: From standard doubles to suites with balconies and jacuzzis.
- Amenities: Outdoor pools, boat rentals, lakeside dining.
- Why stay here: You’re only minutes from both Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend, plus you can add water activities to your itinerary.
Check prices and availability at Lake Powell Resort on trip.com
Other Options in Page
- Budget: Rodeway Inn or Motel 6 – simple and affordable.
- Midrange: Best Western View of Lake Powell – comfortable, with breakfast included.
- Luxury alternative: Hyatt Place Page – modern rooms and great service.
Extra Activities Around Page
Another great places so much beautifful like Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend
If you have more than one day, consider adding these:
- Glen Canyon Dam Overlook – less crowded, stunning river views.
- Lake Powell Boat Tour – explore hidden coves and red rock formations.
- Rainbow Bridge National Monument – one of the world’s largest natural bridges, accessible by boat.
- Antelope Canyon X – a newer, less crowded slot canyon option.
- Kayaking & Paddleboarding – launch from Antelope Point Marina.
Book Here:
Essential Travel Tips
- Book early: Antelope Canyon tours sell out months in advance.
- Bring cash: Some Navajo tour operators prefer cash for tips.
- Pack essentials: Water, sunscreen, hat, and sturdy shoes.
- Respect Navajo rules: Antelope Canyon is sacred land.
- Parking: Horseshoe Bend has a paid lot ($10 per vehicle, cash or card).
- Accessibility: Upper Antelope Canyon is wheelchair accessible; Lower is not.
Suggested Day Trip from Las Vegas or Phoenix
- From Las Vegas: 4.5–5 hours by car, or join a full-day guided tour that includes both sights.
- From Phoenix: 4.5 hours by car, making it doable as an overnight trip.
Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend from las vegas day tour
Conclusion: A One-Day Adventure You’ll Never Forget
Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend are among the most photogenic places in the American Southwest. With smart planning, you can experience both in a single day, making your trip to Page, Arizona truly unforgettable.
Stay at Lake Powell Resort for comfort and views, book your Navajo-guided canyon tour in advance, and don’t forget your camera – because these landscapes deserve to be remembered and visit Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend
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