Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Day Trip from Sedona: Slot Canyons, Desert Vistas, and Navajo Lands
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
10 hours
Fitness Level
Comfortable walking 2 miles with short climbs and stairs; able to stand for extended periods in sun and wind.
Overview
Walk the sculpted corridors of Antelope Canyon with a Navajo guide, then stand at the edge of Horseshoe Bend where the Colorado River arcs through sandstone. This full-day tour from Sedona blends big scenery with cultural insight and practical comfort.
Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Day Trip from Sedona: Slot Canyons, Desert Vistas, and Navajo Lands
Select participants and date
The day starts as red rock country gives way to high-desert light. Leaving Sedona, the road threads through Oak Creek Canyon, where the creek whispers its way past sycamore and maple while cliffs lean in like curious onlookers. North of Flagstaff, ponderosa pines thin, the horizon widens, and the Colorado Plateau flattens into a long, quiet stage—until sandstone wakes up in color. By the time you reach Page, the landscape has shifted from evergreen to canyon country, and the desert feels fully awake, urging you forward.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Hydrate early and often
Carry at least 2 liters of water per person; the dry high-desert air dehydrates quickly even on mild days.
Footing in the canyon
Expect metal stairs and narrow passages in Lower Antelope Canyon—closed-toe shoes with tread are strongly recommended.
Respect the edge at Horseshoe Bend
There are sheer drop-offs with minimal railings—keep a safe distance and watch footing on sandy rock.
Photography etiquette on Navajo land
Tripods and bags may be restricted; follow your guide’s instructions and keep pace to avoid bottlenecks.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- California condor near Navajo Bridge
- Desert collared lizard along sunny rocks
History
Antelope Canyon lies on Navajo Nation land; guided access preserves safety and cultural respect. Glen Canyon Dam, completed in 1966, created Lake Powell and reshaped the region’s water and power systems.
Conservation
Stay on established paths to protect fragile cryptobiotic soil and delicate sandstone. Pack out all trash and follow guide instructions to minimize impact in this sensitive desert environment.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Page, Arizona
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Closed-toe hiking shoes with good tread
Essential for traction on sandy rock and the slot canyon’s metal stairs.
Sun hat and UPF layers
Desert sun is intense; full coverage helps keep you cool and protected.
summer specific
Insulated water bottle (2L total)
Staying hydrated is critical in the arid climate throughout the day.
Wide-angle camera or phone lens
A wider field of view captures the sweeping bend and tight canyon walls.