Lower Antelope Canyon: A First-Timer’s Complete Guide

example of the sandstone formations that you can see inside Lower Antelope Canyon
by Anisa // 0 Comments

If you’ve seen photos of Antelope Canyon, chances are it’s already on your must-visit list. As a first-time visitor, I wasn’t sure what to expect—or even whether to choose Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon. I had heard about the ladders and narrow passages and worried it might be too physically demanding. But the moment I stepped inside Lower Antelope Canyon, my concerns disappeared. The experience was not only manageable but absolutely unforgettable.

If you’re planning your first visit, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from why Lower Antelope Canyon is a must-see destination to how it compares to Upper Antelope Canyon. I’ll also share my personal experience, practical tips, and essential information to help you make the most of your trip.

Note: This post contains affiliate links.  Please see disclosure for more information.

view of the patterns and light inside lower antelope canyon
The light inside Lower Antelope Canyon can be magical.

Why You Should Visit Lower Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon is one of the most famous slot canyons in the world, but if you’ve never visited one before, you might be wondering what that really means. Unlike the vast, open expanse of the Grand Canyon, a slot canyon is a narrow, winding passage carved by water over thousands of years. The result? Stunning, smooth sandstone walls that twist and turn, creating surreal patterns and colors as sunlight filters through.

When planning my visit, I debated between Lower and Upper Antelope Canyon. Ultimately, I chose Lower Antelope Canyon because it was more affordable, you didn’t have to ride in an offroad vehicle to get to it, and possibly less crowded. While people often say Lower is more physically demanding due to its stairs and ladders, I found them well-designed and easy to navigate. Plus, the canyon’s variety of rock formations and lighting made for an incredible experience.

You really can’t go wrong with either canyon, so don’t overthink your decision. Still, understanding their key differences can help you choose the best tour for you.

Understanding the Differences Between Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon

Both Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon are located on Navajo land and can only be visited with a guided tour. While both offer incredible scenery, the experience differs depending on which one you choose. Here’s what you need to know to decide which is right for you.

Accessibility & Entrance

Upper Antelope Canyon requires a bumpy ride in a tour vehicle to the entrance, while Lower Antelope Canyon is just a short walk downhill from the tour office.  Unfortunately, neither canyon is wheelchair accessible, as both require navigating stairs and uneven terrain.

Canyon Shape & Formations

Upper Antelope Canyon has an A-shaped structure, meaning it’s wider at the bottom and narrower at the top. This makes it easier to walk through but can feel more crowded.

Lower Antelope Canyon features A-shaped, V-shaped, and parallel slot canyon walls, offering more variety in formations and photo opportunities.

Lighting & Best Time to Visit

Upper Antelope Canyon is famous for its dramatic light beams, but they only appear from April to August, between 10 AM and 1 PM. Outside of this window, the lighting is less impressive.

Lower Antelope Canyon has great lighting all day, year-round, with occasional light beams in the late morning, except in winter. This means you don’t have to worry about a specific time slot to get beautiful photos.

different shades of rock inside lower antelope canyon
We had wonderful lighting during our tour of Lower Antelope Canyon.

Physical Requirements

Many say Lower Antelope Canyon is more physically demanding because of its ladders and stairs, but I found them easy to manage. The one-way trail (407 meters) allows for a steady flow of visitors.

Upper Antelope Canyon is shorter (660 feet) and has a flat in-and-out trail, making it easier for those with mobility concerns.

Price & Tour Duration

Lower Antelope Canyon tours are cheaper but there aren’t any that include pickup from Page. They last about one hour.

Upper Antelope Canyon tours are pricier and run for about 90 minutes, often including more discussion on history and geology.

Some combination tours are available if you want to visit both canyons, Horseshoe Bend, Lake Powell, Glen Canyon Dam, or even the Grand Canyon.

Alternative Slot Canyons

If you want a less crowded, more challenging experience, consider Canyon X or Cardiac Canyon. These require more hiking but offer a quieter, more off-the-beaten-path adventure.

looking up you can see the x shaped opening that gives canyon x it's name
Canyon X gets its name from this rock formation.

Common Concerns About Visiting Lower Antelope Canyon (and Why You Shouldn’t Worry!)

If you’re considering a visit to Lower Antelope Canyon, you might have a few concerns—especially if it’s your first time. Here’s what you need to know, along with some reassurance based on my experience.

Claustrophobia

Worried about feeling trapped in a narrow canyon? Don’t be! While Lower Antelope Canyon is a slot canyon, it never feels completely enclosed. You can always see the path ahead, and the natural light filtering in from above keeps it from feeling too confined. If you’re comfortable in spaces like subway tunnels or elevators, you’ll likely have no issues here.

interesting shades of sandstone inside lower antelope canyon
You can find many different patterns and textures in the sandstone inside Lower Antelope Canyon.

Physical Fitness & Difficulty Level

You don’t need to be an athlete to enjoy Lower Antelope Canyon, but there are a few physical elements to consider. The tour involves walking around a mile and navigating a series of stairs and ladders—mostly descending. The longest staircase is at the entrance, and the rest are well-designed with handrails for support. A few small steps don’t have railings, but they aren’t difficult to manage. If you can handle stairs in a typical building, you should be just fine.

TIP: It will be easier to go down the steeper staircases backwards like you would a ladder.

three steps inside lower antelope canyon that did not have a handrail
These steps didn’t have a handrail but it wasn’t too bad to climb without.

Crowds & Tour Group Management

Since Lower Antelope Canyon is a popular attraction, tours can be busy even in the offseason. However, I found that the only time it felt truly crowded was at the entrance while waiting to go in. Once inside, people naturally spread out, and thanks to the winding nature of the canyon, there were moments when we couldn’t even see the rest of our group. The experience still felt intimate and enjoyable.

Weather & Seasonal Considerations

Rain & Flash Flooding: Tours will be canceled if there’s a risk of flooding. It’s rare, but always check the weather forecast before your visit.

Summer Heat: Expect high temperatures. There is shade at the entrance, but make sure to dress appropriately and bring water.

Winter Cold: The canyon can get chilly in winter, so bundle up with layers. When we visited in December, temperatures were just above freezing, and I wish I would have had gloves.

Photography Restrictions

Lower Antelope Canyon is a photographer’s dream, but there are a few rules to be aware of:

  • Tripods and video recording are not allowed inside the canyon.
  • No photos are allowed on the stairs for safety reasons.

That said, I still had plenty of time to capture amazing shots and never felt rushed.

looking up at an interesting rock formation in lower Antelope Canyon
There are beautiful photos to be found all around you in Lower Antelope Canyon.

Time Limitations

Tours last about an hour inside the canyon, and I initially worried that wouldn’t be enough time. However, the pacing was perfect—I had plenty of opportunities to take photos and appreciate the beauty without feeling rushed.

My Experience & What to Expect for Your Lower Antelope Canyon Tour

If you’re visiting Lower Antelope Canyon for the first time, knowing what to expect can make the experience even smoother. I was excited but also a little nervous—would there be long lines? Would I have enough time for photos? Would the stairs be too difficult? Luckily, the experience turned out to be organized, manageable, and absolutely breathtaking.

Check-In Process

You’re advised to arrive early to check in, so I was expecting a long wait. While there were a lot of people, the process was quick and efficient. We simply showed our voucher, had our name checked off the list, and were directed to the waiting area. Once there, we listened for our tour time to be called before getting organized into smaller groups.

mesmerizing rock patterns inside Lower Antelope Canyon
I was worried about being able to get photos without other people in them, but it was not an issue.

Group Sizes & Tour Duration

Even though many people were booked for the same time slot, they split us into smaller groups of about 15 people, making the experience feel more personal.

We were inside the canyon for around 50 minutes.  About 15 minutes before our scheduled time, our guide gathered us, went over the basic rules, and then led us on a 10-minute walk to the canyon entrance. 

people walking from the tour office to the entrance of lower antelope canyon
The walk to the entrance of Lower Antelope Canyon wasn’t bad at all.

Physical Requirements

This tour isn’t too physically demanding, but there are a few things to keep in mind:

  • The walk to the canyon entrance is downhill and takes about 10 minutes.
  • The walk back is uphill, but much shorter.
  • Inside the canyon, you’ll walk about 400 meters—though with all the twists and turns, it feels longer!
  • The tour is not wheelchair accessible due to the stairs and ladders inside the canyon.
view of people going down the stairs at the entrance to lower antelope canyon
The stairs at the entrance to Lower Antelope Canyon are steep but sturdy and have handrails.

Navigating the Stairs & Ladders

I had read a lot about the stairs and ladders, but they were easier than I expected. The steepest section is the descent into the canyon, where one set of stairs felt more like a ladder. I found it easier to go down backwards, just like you would on an actual ladder.

Once inside, there aren’t any long staircases going up—most of the steps are short, and almost all have handrails except for one small set of just a couple of steps.

Guide Interaction

Our guide was friendly and knowledgeable, explaining interesting facts about the canyon and the different formations. He also offered to take photos of us several times, which was a nice touch!

Photography Opportunities

I was initially worried that it would be hard to take photos without other people in the frame, but I was pleasantly surprised! Because the canyon twists and turns, there were plenty of moments when we couldn’t see anyone else. I had more than enough time to capture stunning shots of the swirling sandstone walls without feeling rushed.

Before you go on your tour, be sure to also read our tips for photography in a slot canyon.

different shades and patterns inside lower antelope canyon
You can still get amazing photos with a smartphone in a Lower Antelope Canyon.

How to Plan Your Visit to Lower Antelope Canyon

A little planning goes a long way when visiting Lower Antelope Canyon. Since it’s a popular destination, booking ahead and choosing the right time can make all the difference in your experience. Here’s what you need to know before you go.

Best Time of Year to Visit

Lower Antelope Canyon can be visited year-round, but if you want the most comfortable weather, visit in spring (March–May) or fall (September–November). Summer can be extremely hot, and winter, while beautiful, can be quite chilly.

Best Time of Day for Tours

The canyon’s lighting changes throughout the day, creating different photographic opportunities.Late morning (around 10 AM – 12 PM) is the best time for right lighting and a chance to see light beams (except in winter).

If you’re visiting in winter, there won’t be light beams, but the soft lighting still makes for amazing photos.

view above ground just after exiting Lower Antelope Canyon, lots of interesting rock
After leaving the canyon, I looked back and it’s amazing to think about what is just below the surface here.

How Far in Advance to Book

How early you should book depends on when you’re visiting. 

Peak season (spring & summer): Tours during the best time slots can sell out weeks in advance, so book early.

Off-season (winter): You may find availability closer to your visit (or even the day of), but booking ahead is still recommended to avoid disappointment.

How to Get There from Page

Lower Antelope Canyon is just a 5-minute drive from Page, Arizona, making it an easy stop if you’re staying in town. There is plenty of parking onsite, so you don’t have to worry about finding a spot.

exterior of ken's tour where we started our tour of lower antelope canyon
Ken’s Tours is one of two companies that do tours of Lower Antelope Canyon.

Tour Companies & Booking Options

Since Lower Antelope Canyon is on Navajo land, you must book a tour with an authorized company. There are two main operators:

  • Ken’s Tours (the company we chose)
  • Dixie’s Lower Antelope Canyon Tours

Both offer similar experiences, so availability and time slots may be the biggest deciding factors.  We booked our tour through Getyourguide so that we could have more flexibility with the cancelation policy.  Also, if you want to do a combination tour or one that leaves from Las Vegas, you need to book that through Getyourguide or something similar.

Essential Tips for Your Visit to Lower Antelope Canyon

A little preparation can make your Lower Antelope Canyon tour even more enjoyable. Here are some key tips to help you have the best experience.

Dress for success!

Dress for the weather, as you’ll spend some time outside before entering the canyon. Sneakers are fine—you don’t need hiking boots since the terrain inside the canyon is mostly smooth. In summer, wear light, breathable clothing, and in winter, dress in layers to stay warm.

interesting rock formation in Lower Antelope Canyon with a bit of blue sky too
It’s hard to tell from the photos but it was pretty cold when we visited Lower Antelope Canyon in December.

Bring only the basics

To keep tours running smoothly, there are restrictions on what you can bring inside the canyon.

✅ Allowed: A water bottle, phone, and camera.

❌ Not Allowed: Bags, backpacks, tripods, GoPros, or selfie sticks.

Since you won’t be able to bring extra gear, make sure your camera or phone is fully charged before your tour.

Don’t Miss the Famous Photo Spots

Lower Antelope Canyon is a photographer’s dream, and you’ll want to capture its incredible sandstone formations. If you’re interested in detailed photography tips, check out my dedicated photography guide (insert link if applicable).

Some of the most famous photo spots inside the canyon include:

  • The Lion – A rock formation resembling a lion’s face, found shortly after entering the canyon.
  • The Lady – A natural formation shaped like a woman.
  • The Heart – A heart-shaped opening in the rock.
the famous lion inside lower antelope canyon
Our guide made sure we didn’t miss the lion inside Lower Antelope Canyon.

Check the Weather 

Tours may be canceled in the event of rain due to the risk of flash flooding. If the weather looks questionable, check with your tour operator before heading out.

Expect extreme temperatures. Summer can be scorching, while winter mornings can be quite cold—dress accordingly.

Take Advantage of the Facilities Before the Tour Begins

Before your tour starts, you’ll find bathrooms, a gift shop, and a café at the check-in building. There are no bathrooms inside the canyon, so be sure to use the facilities beforehand.

Practical Information for Visiting Lower Antelope Canyon

Before heading to Lower Antelope Canyon, it’s helpful to know some key logistics to ensure a smooth visit. Here’s what you need to keep in mind.

Parking & Facilities

There is plenty of parking at the check-in building, so you won’t have to worry about finding a spot. This is also where you’ll find bathrooms, a gift shop, and a café.

Food & Water

You’re allowed to bring water on the tour, and it’s highly recommended, especially in the summer heat. However, since the tour lasts only about an hour, there’s no time for snacks inside the canyon. If you need to eat before or after, the on-site café is a convenient option.

wave like patterns in the rock inside Lower Antelope Canyon
The magic of Mother Nature is on full display inside Lower Antelope Canyon.

Cell Phone Service

You’ll have cell phone service at the check-in building, but once you enter the canyon, expect little to no reception. 

Safety Considerations

Lower Antelope Canyon is a safe and well-guided tour, but it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings.

  • Hold on to the handrails when using the stairs and ladders.
  • Listen to your guide for important instructions.
  • Watch your head! Some sections have low rock formations.
  • Stay with your group to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Tour Cancellation Policies

Most tours booked through GetYourGuide or similar platforms offer a 24-hour cancellation policy, meaning you can get a full refund if you cancel more than 24 hours in advance. If you book directly with the tour companies they have a stricter policy.  Always check the specific terms when booking.

Beyond the Canyon: More to See & Do Near Lower Antelope Canyon

Lower Antelope Canyon is just one of the incredible sights in the Page, Arizona area. If you have extra time, here are some nearby attractions, places to stay, and restaurant recommendations to round out your trip.

More Amazing Slot Canyons & Natural Wonders

Upper Antelope Canyon – Probably the most famous slot canyon in Arizona, known for its light beams and sculpted sandstone walls that glow in hues of red and orange.

Canyon X – A lesser-known slot canyon, slightly further from Page, that offers a more intimate experience, with unique formations and fewer crowds. You can book a guided tour here.

Cardiac Canyon – A challenging, off-the-beaten-path slot canyon for adventurous hikers looking for a more rugged experience.

Horseshoe Bend – A must-see viewpoint where the Colorado River curves into a perfect horseshoe shape, just a 10-minute drive from Page. You don’t need a tour to visit Horsebend, but there are several interesting ones here that include multiple attractions.

Lake Powell & Glen Canyon Dam – A great spot for boating, kayaking, or just admiring the massive dam that created the lake. Check out some of the things you can do at Lake Powell here.

No matter how long you stay in Page, there’s plenty to explore beyond Lower Antelope Canyon. If you have extra time, consider adding one (or more!) of these experiences to your itinerary.

Where to Stay in Page

Page has plenty of hotels and lodging options to fit different budgets. We stayed at the Courtyard Marriott, which was comfortable and conveniently located. You can read more reviews of it here. Other options include:

Hyatt Place Page/Lake Powell – Modern hotel with great views. Get more information about it here.

Lake Powell Resort Mid-range option with a scenic overlook. Get more information about it here.

Find more accommodation options around Page in the map below.

Where to Eat in Page

After exploring the canyon, you’ll probably work up an appetite! Page has a variety of dining options, and we particularly enjoyed:

  • Fiesta Mexicana – A great spot for authentic Mexican food and big margaritas.
  • Big John’s Texas BBQ –  A casual spot for authentic Texas-style barbecue, known for its hearty portions and laid-back, rustic setting.

You can find more places to eat in Page here.

image showing the texture and patterns in the rock inside Lower Antelope Canyon
Lower Antelope Canyon is one of several impressive attractions near Page, Arizona.

FAQs About Visiting Lower Antelope Canyon

Still have questions about visiting Lower Antelope Canyon? Here are some of the most common ones to help you plan your trip!

Do I need a tour to visit Lower Antelope Canyon?

Yes! Lower Antelope Canyon is on Navajo land, and you can only visit with a guided tour. Two authorized tour companies operate here: Ken’s Tours and Dixie’s Lower Antelope Canyon Tours.  

How long does the tour last?

The tour lasts about an hour inside the canyon, but allow at least 90 minutes total for check-in, pre-tour instructions, and the short walk to the entrance.

How far in advance should I book?

If you’re visiting during peak season (spring & summer), book at least a few weeks in advance—especially for mid-morning tours when lighting is best. In the off-season (winter), you might find last-minute availability, but booking ahead is still recommended.  Most tour options booked through Getyourguide will allow you to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is Lower Antelope Canyon physically challenging?

The tour requires navigating stairs and ladders, but most people find it manageable. You’ll walk about 400 meters (a little over 1,300 feet) inside the canyon. The most challenging part is the initial descent into the canyon, but the ladders and handrails make it easier.

What should I wear for my Lower Antelope Canyon tour?

Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes (sneakers are fine—hiking boots aren’t necessary). In summer, dress for heat and bring water. In winter, layer up, as it can get cold.

Can I bring a backpack inside Lower Antelope Canyon?

No, backpacks, large bags, tripods, and selfie sticks are not allowed inside the canyon. You can bring a water bottle, phone, and camera.

Can I take photos inside the canyon?

Yes! Photography is allowed, but there are some restrictions:
No tripods, monopods, or GoPros are permitted.
No video recording is allowed inside the canyon.
You cannot take photos while on the stairs for safety reasons.

When is the best time of day to visit?

For the best lighting, late morning (around 10 AM – 12 PM) is ideal. If you’re hoping to see light beams, they typically appear from late spring through summer but aren’t as common as in Upper Antelope Canyon.

Will it be crowded?

Tours run back-to-back throughout the day, so you won’t have the canyon to yourself. However, groups are spaced out, and due to the canyon’s curves, there are moments when you won’t see other people. The only crowded part is usually waiting at the entrance.

What happens if it rains?

Tours will be canceled if there’s a risk of flash flooding. If this happens, you’ll typically be offered a reschedule or refund, depending on the tour company’s policy.

Can I visit both Lower and Upper Antelope Canyon in one day?

Yes! Many people visit both canyons in one day. Some tour operators offer combo tours, or you can book separate tours and plan for a break in between. Just make sure to leave enough time to get from one tour to the next.

Is Lower Antelope Canyon good for kids?

Yes, Lower Antelope Canyon can be a great experience for kids, but they must be able to navigate stairs and ladders on their own.  Carrying young kids is not allowed for safety reasons. 

Are there bathrooms available?

There are bathrooms at the check-in area, but none inside the canyon, so use them before your tour starts!

photo inside lower antelope canyon with blue skies and a few white clouds peeking through the sandstone
Lower Antelope Canyon exceeded my expectations.

Final Thoughts: Is a Tour of Lower Antelope Canyon Worth It?

Absolutely—a tour of Lower Antelope Canyon is 100% worth it! I had high expectations going in, but the canyon’s beauty still managed to exceed them. The swirling sandstone walls, rich colors, and ever-changing light made for an unforgettable experience.

Photos simply don’t do it justice—there’s so much more to see in person. Every turn revealed new shapes and textures, making the entire tour feel like a journey through a natural masterpiece. If you’re visiting Page, Arizona, Lower Antelope Canyon is a must-see destination. Whether you’re an avid photographer or just someone who appreciates nature’s beauty, this is an experience you won’t forget.

Would I do it again? Without a doubt!

Have you visited Lower Antelope Canyon, or is it on your travel bucket list? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear about your experience or answer any questions you have!

-Anisa

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. This means we will receive a small commission for some purchases made using links in our blog with no additional cost to you.  Please be assured we would not promote any product unless we believe that our readers will also benefit.  The commission does not influence the editorial content of this site.

Two Traveling Texans is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.co.uk, amazon.ca. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.

About the Author

Anisa is an experienced international traveler with extra pages in her passport and stamps from 41 different countries across 5 continents (and counting). She was born and raised in Texas. After a 13 year stint in NYC, she moved to England to live with her husband.

>