Hiking Upper Antelope Canyon In The Navajo Nation

by Flying High On Points
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Video: Hiking Upper Antelope Canyon In The Navajo Nation Near Page, Arizona.

Hiking Upper Antelope Canyon In The Navajo Nation Near Page, Arizona.

About The Upper Antelope Canyon Trail

The Upper Antelope Canyon Trail, located near Page, Arizona, is one of the most famous of trails in America’s West. This trail, nestled within the Navajo Nation, offers an awe-inspiring hiking experience that is a showcase in natural beauty.

The trail is an out-and-back route spanning approximately 6.5 miles. Despite its length, it is generally considered an easy hike, with an average completion time of around 2 hours and 6 minutes. The trail’s elevation gain is a manageable 252 feet, making it accessible to hikers of various fitness levels. The best times to visit are typically between May and March. During the summer months, the canyon can be particularly hot, and the trail can become crowded.

“The Hummingbird”

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One of the most striking features of the Upper Antelope Canyon Trail is its location within a slot canyon, a narrow channel formed over millions of years by rushing water through sandstone. The canyon, also known as “Corkscrew Canyon,” is one of the few slot canyons in the area. Its undulating walls, sculpted by the forces of nature, create a labyrinth of light and shadow that changes throughout the day.

About Upper Antelope Canyon

The Upper Antelope Canyon is the most visited and most photographed slot canyon in the American Southwest. Its popularity is due in part to its accessibility. Unlike the Lower Antelope Canyon, which requires navigating stairs down into the slot, the Upper Antelope Canyon is more wheelchair-friendly. However, the sandy surface can be challenging to navigate, especially during rainy or muddy conditions.

Visitors to the canyon are required to pay a fee to enter Navajo Park and must participate in a mandatory tour. This requirement ensures the protection of this sacred land and helps manage the number of visitors at any given time. Several Navajo Nation Tour Operators use 4×4 vehicles to transport visitors to the Upper Antelope Canyon. The trail is open year-round and offers a unique beauty in every season.

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About Tsé Bíghanílíní Tours

We visited the Upper Antelope Canyon with Tsé Bíghanílíní Tours (The price at the time was $108.33 per person). The tour, which lasted approximately 1.5 hours, offered a blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and photographic opportunities.

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The tour began with a scenic ride to the canyon. Once there, we were led through the canyon by our Navajo guide who explained the geology of the land and a the history and culture of the Navajo people.

One of the highlights of the tour was the opportunity to capture the canyon’s beauty through photography. Our guide showed us the best angles and locations for taking photos.

Its natural beauty, accessibility, and the cultural significance of its location within the Navajo Nation make it a must-visit destination for any hiking enthusiast. Whether you’re an amateur photographer looking to capture nature’s surprising masterpiece of color or an adventurer seeking to discover one of the most spectacular attractions of the Lake Powell area, the Upper Antelope Canyon Trail will not disappoint. The tour was suitable for all ages, but do note that no bags are allowed within the canyon and visitors must check in 30 minutes before the tour.

 

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Hiking Upper Antelope Canyon In The Navajo Nation – Travel Blogs January 18, 2024 - 6:15 pm

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