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Lower Antelope Canyon in Page, Arizona offers a family-friendly adventure through glowing sandstone walls, where light and color create unforgettable photo opportunities.

Sunlight illuminates the smooth, flowing red and orange sandstone walls of Lower Antelope Canyon, creating striking patterns and shadows. The sky is visible through an opening above.

Where Is Lower Antelope Canyon?

Lower Antelope Canyon is located just east of Page, Arizona, on Navajo land near the Arizona–Utah border. We stayed in Kanab, Utah, and the drive took about 1.5 hours. From Las Vegas or Phoenix, it’s about a 4.5-hour drive each way, so staying overnight in Page or Kanab makes the trip more comfortable.

Upper vs. Lower Antelope Canyon

Both canyons are stunning, but the experience differs.

  • Lower Antelope Canyon: Shaped like a “V”—narrow at the base and wider at the top. Visitors climb down steep metal stairs and squeeze through slim walkways.
  • Upper Antelope Canyon: Shaped like an “A”—wider at the base and easier to walk. It’s known for dramatic light beams that shine down in the summer months.

We chose Lower Antelope Canyon because it was more budget-friendly. Our tickets were around $40 per person (it’s $55 in 2025), compared to $63–$150+ for Upper Antelope’s tours.

Booking a Tour

Both Upper and Lower Antelope Canyons are on protected Navajo land, so entry is only possible with a guided tour. Lower Antelope Canyon has two official operators: Ken’s Tours and Dixie Ellis’ Tours. They share the same parking lot at the canyon entrance, with tours departing about every 30 minutes.

What to know before booking:

  • Bags are not allowed, including camera bags. Only small purses and hydration packs are permitted.
  • The steep stairs at the entrance make it unsuitable for strollers or wheelchairs.
  • Tours are crowded, usually 10–15 people per group.
  • For photography, stay toward the back of your group for unobstructed shots. Guides also know the best angles and often help take photos.

What It’s Like Inside

Sunlight streams through the smooth, swirling orange and purple sandstone walls of Lower Antelope Canyon, highlighting the layered textures and curves of this stunning slot canyon.

From the flat desert parking area, there’s no sign of the beauty hidden below. After check-in, our guide led us down a sandy path to what looked like a crack in the ground. That narrow opening led into a world of color.

The descent involves steep metal staircases. We were a little nervous at first but quickly gained confidence. Once inside, the walls curved around us in reds, pinks, and purples that shifted with the changing sunlight. It felt like walking through a natural cathedral.

We stopped often to take photos as our guide pointed out formations nicknamed “The Lion” and “The Shark.” The kids enjoyed spotting shapes in the rocks, almost like cloud-gazing underground. Some areas were wide enough to walk together, while others were so tight we had to turn sideways.

Is It Family-Friendly?

A group of five people wearing hats and outdoor gear stand inside the winding, narrow Lower Antelope Canyon, smiling at the camera as sunlight filters in, highlighting the textured sandstone walls.

Yes, though there are a few things to keep in mind. Kids who are comfortable with stairs and narrow spaces will do well. Our children loved touching the cool sandstone and watching how the light transformed the walls.

In warmer months, it can get very hot. Booking the earliest tour of the day helps avoid the midday heat and larger crowds.

Should You Visit Both Canyons?

For most families, one canyon is enough for a first trip. Upper Antelope Canyon is the choice for photographers chasing the summer light beams, but it comes at a higher price. Lower Antelope Canyon offered everything we hoped for—dramatic scenery, family-friendly adventure, and plenty of photo opportunities.

How to Get to Lower Antelope Canyon

Getting to the Location

All tours depart directly from the tour company’s office near the canyon entrance on Indian Route 222, just east of Page, Arizona, off Highway 98.

By Car

  • From Las Vegas, Nevada: 4-5 hours
  • From Phoenix, Arizona: 4.5-5 hours
  • From Zion National Park: About 2 hours
  • From Bryce Canyon National Park: About 2 hours

The Magic of Lower Antelope Canyon: Worth the Visit

Sunlight illuminates the smooth, flowing red and orange sandstone walls of Lower Antelope Canyon, highlighting intricate textures and natural patterns inside the narrow slot canyon.

Lower Antelope Canyon is one of those rare places that looks just as breathtaking in person as it does in photos. The flowing sandstone walls, shifting colors, and sense of discovery made it one of the highlights of our Southwest road trip.

Our whole family came away amazed, and the kids still talk about the adventure. If you’re exploring the region, this canyon deserves a spot on your itinerary.

More to Explore Nearby

Once you’ve explored the slot canyon, you’re close to other memorable Southwest destinations:

  • Horseshoe Bend – A short hike to a dramatic bend in the Colorado River.
  • Lake Powell – Perfect for boating, kayaking, or scenic cruises.
  • Glen Canyon Dam Overlook – A striking viewpoint over the dam and Colorado River.
  • Navajo Village Heritage Center – Learn about Navajo culture through performances and exhibits.

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