Kayak to Antelope Canyon: How to see Antelope Canyon without a tour
Have you ever wanted to see Antelope Canyon without a tour? What if I told you there is a way to see Antelope Canyon without the crowds, the steep price, and without a guide?
Antelope Canyon is a natural masterpiece of swirling sandstone formations. The canyon’s narrow passageways, sculpted by centuries of wind and water erosion, create mesmerizing patterns and shapes illuminated by beams of sunlight that dance across the vibrant red and orange walls. It truly is a surreal and magical landscape, captivating photographers and visitors.
As you wander through the canyon’s winding corridors, you’ll be awestruck by the ethereal beauty surrounding you. The wave-like rock surfaces and the narrow slivers of sky above create an otherworldly atmosphere, making Antelope Canyon a true gem of the USA’s Southwest.
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Can You Visit Antelope Canyon Without a Tour?
If you want to see Antelope Canyon without a tour, I have an incredible half-day adventure to share with you! Unfortunately, you must take a tour to see Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon. If you are interested in that (which I think is worth it), I will share how to do that with you.
Now, there is an alternative to seeing Antelope Canyon without a tour. As mentioned, you won’t be able to get into Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon, but if you follow my guide below, you will go on an epic adventure into Antelope Canyon by Kayak or other watercraft!
Kayaking to Antelope Canyon offers a unique and serene way to explore this natural wonder. You will paddle through the waters of Lake Powell and be surrounded by towering red cliffs that reflect magically on the water.
If you want to learn how to go on this adventure, keep reading!
While all opinions and recommendations are always my own, KristasCompass contains affiliate links and is a member of Amazon Services LLC Associate Program. This means if you purchase a product through one of these links, I will receive a small commission. Don’t worry, though; there is no additional cost to you. As always, I am so grateful for your support.
Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon Tours
Many companies offer Antelope Canyon Tours. Each typically offers a tour of Upper Antelope Canyon, Lower Antelope Canyon, or a combination of both. These companies also offer other tours, but for now, we will just focus on Antelope Canyon.
I went with Shun’diin Canyon Tours. After doing some research, we chose to go with Upper Antelope Canyon since the photo opportunities there seemed just a tad more magical than those of Lower Antelope Canyon. Upper Antelope Canyon is more popular due to its more surreal and otherworldly atmosphere, although I’m sure that the Lower Canyon is also mesmerizing.
Prices for Shun’diin Canyon Tours
Lower Antelope Canyon: $122 USD per person
Upper Antelope Canyon: $168 USD per person
Lower and Upper Antelope Canyon: $248 USD per person
Our tour guide was exceptionally knowledgeable and provided us with an enriching experience. During our scenic ride to the canyons, he shared fascinating information about the history and culture of the Indigenous Peoples who have lived in the area for centuries.
His detailed stories and insights gave us a deeper appreciation for the land and its original inhabitants, making our journey not only visually stunning but also intellectually stimulating. By the time we reached the canyons, we felt a profound connection to the history and significance of this remarkable landscape.
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How Long Does the Tour Take?
You will likely be picked up about an hour before the tour starts, and you will drive for about 40 minutes. Once you arrive, you will check in with your guide, and there will be a waiting period for your group to enter.
Once your group enters, you will be inside the canyon for roughly an hour. Lower Antelope Canyon is approximately a mile long, and Upper Antelope Canyon is only ¼ of a mile. Plan to be gone for 3-4 hours if you only do one.
How to Get To Antelope Canyon
Your tour operator will determine a meeting location with you and pick you up in one of their vans to take you on the tour. Since Antelope Canyon is near Page, Arizona, your meeting location will be there.
We were staying at a campground, so our tour guide picked us up straight at the campsite.
What to Pack for Antelope Canyon
Since you are not allowed to bring a bag on your tour, you will be asked to leave any bags in the tour van, so only pack what you need.
Bring some money for souvenirs if you’d like, water, and your phone or camera to take photos. That is all. Just keep it simple.
What to Wear in Antelope Canyon
Wear comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes for your tour. While you don’t need specialized hiking shoes, choosing footwear that you can walk in comfortably for an extended period is essential. I’ve seen visitors wearing a range of footwear in the Upper Antelope Canyon, from heavy-duty hiking boots to casual sandals.
Remember, the focus should be on your comfort, so choose attire and shoes you feel best in to fully enjoy your experience without discomfort.
When it comes to clothing, if you go during the summer, wear something that you would be comfortable wearing in the heat. If you are going during cooler temperatures, bring a sweater. It may be hot up in the sun, but it could be cooler in the canyons.
I went on a scorching day and wore shorts and a T-shirt, and I was perfectly fine. My partner wore joggers and a T-shirt, and he was comfortable.
Regardless of the season, comfortable and practical attire will enhance your overall experience. By dressing thoughtfully and being prepared for varying temperatures, you’ll be able to fully enjoy the breathtaking scenery and unique atmosphere of the canyons without any discomfort or distraction.
Taking Pictures in Upper Antelope Canyon
I won’t be the only person to tell you this, but taking photos in Upper Antelope Canyon is insanely difficult. There are 20- 30 people in each tour group (I don’t know the exact number). Not only are there 20-30 people per group but there will also be groups right in front and behind your group.
Not only that, but the slot canyons are such narrow and tight places that, in most spots, people are in a single file. If there is an opening, almost everyone is trying to fit into that opening.
So, to sum it up, it’s challenging to take good photos without people photo-bombing your beautiful shots. If you want to get pictures without people, you have to get creative and strategic about it.
Is the Upper Antelope Canyon Tour Worth It?
I’ll admit, the price of exploring Antelope Canyon with so many people at once is pretty steep. But I do have to say that it is also worth it.
It was unforgettable to see this natural wonder firsthand. It truly is a masterpiece of swirling sandstone formations sculpted by centuries of wind and water erosion. It’s absolutely mesmerizing, and the beams of sunlight are magical.
And, if you manage to get some photos without people, they edit so beautifully!
The tour guides will also provide extensive information about the canyon’s formation and point out incredible views you might have missed along the way, such as the sunrise over the Rockies!
So, if you have the budget for it, I highly recommend going on one of the tours.
How Can I Visit Antelope Canyon Without a Tour?
Now, we’ve already determined that you can see Antelope Canyon without a tour. But now it’s time to discuss exactly how to visit Antelope Canyon without a tour.
It’s important to note that seeing the famous Upper or Lower Antelope Canyons is only possible with a tour. But you can get to Antelope Canyon itself. The views here are less spectacular than in Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon, but this was my favourite adventure while in Arizona.
So, how can you see Antelope Canyon without a tour? Kayak!
Yes! You can kayak to Antelope Canyon! Or you can go by almost any other watercraft. Whether you want to paddle board, canoe, or kayak, it’s totally up to you!
The first thing you will want to do is download the trail guide on AllTrails called Antelope Creek Paddle.
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How to Get to the Lake Powell Marina
You’ll notice on the AllTrails guide for the Antelope Creek Paddle that the trail begins at Antelope Point Marina on Lake Powell. If you scroll down a little bit, you can click “hit directions”, and it will direct you straight to the Antelope Point Marina.
Antelope Point Marina is located in the Glen Canyon National Recreation area. Since it is within the Navajo Nation, there may be fees.
It is about a 15-minute drive from Page, Arizona. You will turn onto AZ-98 E and drive for about 2.2 miles before turning left onto Antelope Point Road for about 4.8 miles. Then, you will turn right onto Marina Parkway, and you will arrive at the Antelope Point Marina.
Renting Kayaks or Other Watercraft
There are several places near Page, Arizona, where you can rent watercraft. We rented kayaks from Lake Powell Adventure. Their rentals include the kayak, paddle, and lifejacket, which cost $60 USD for a single kayak and $90 for a double kayak.
If you rent a kayak with them, you must meet at the shop and pick up your kayak and equipment. So make sure you have a vehicle that is suitable to transport your kayak. There are also options for delivery at the Antelope Point Marina, but you’ll have to speak with them to get this information.
They also have options for a kayak tour to the canyon, so if you’d prefer to join their tour, that is always an option. If you prefer to go alone, just let them know your plans, and they will set you up.
There is also the option to rent a paddle board or kayak from this website,
Can I Bring My Own Watercraft?
Yes! You can bring your own watercraft, which is even better! Just be sure to follow regulations, such as making sure your watercraft is properly cleaned before setting off onto Lake Powell with it.
You can get to Antelope Canyon by kayak, canoe, or paddleboard—it’s all up to you. If you have your own, that makes it even better because your adventure will be pretty much free!
The Route – Kayaking to Antelope Canyon
Once you launch your watercraft on Lake Powell at the Antelope Point Marina, you will head left down Lake Powell. Make sure to follow the AllTrails trail for Antelope Creek Trail to make sure you know where to turn onto Antelope Creek.
Once you turn down Antelope Creek, you will be in awe of the magical canyon towering above, and reflecting so perfectly on the water.
Depending on the water level, you may be kayaking a little less or more. We went in April and kayaked for about 3 miles (5km) until we finally reached land.
If you leave later in the morning to midday, be careful on the water as it can get pretty wavy due to other motorized watercraft zipping by. Leaving earlier in the morning will allow you to have smoother waters and fewer watercraft on the lake. But on the way back, you will definitely experience waves.
How Long Does Kayaking to Antelope Canyon Take?
The kayaking journey to Antelope Canyon is about 3 miles (5km), so the time to get there will depend on your level of kayaking experience. It took us roughly 2 hours, but can take some people only an hour if they’re experienced paddlers.
We also stopped to take videos and photos quite often, so that made it take much longer for us than the average person. Most people take about 1.5 hours to get there if they are not experienced paddlers.
Once you reach land, you can pull your watercraft onto it. Make sure you pull it off to the side to make room for any other kayakers who are doing this incredible adventure. It is safe to leave your watercraft there while you go on the hike.
Hiking Through Antelope Canyon
The hike through Antelope Canyon is about 2.5 miles (4km) each way. Again, the amount of time it takes to hike this differs from person to person and depends on how often you stop for breaks or photos.
The hike is mostly flat, but there are some places you need to climb a bit, which makes it a moderate hike, according to AllTrails. I personally found it to be pretty easy.
When hiking through Antelope Canyon on the Antelope Creek Paddle trail, you will experience some stunning slots, beautiful patterns on the red rock formations, and unique views.
As you navigate through the narrow passageways, you’ll be captivated by the intricate and colourful striations in the sandstone, created over thousands of years by wind and water erosion.
The light filtering down from above casts dynamic shadows and highlights, transforming the canyon walls into a mesmerizing display of natural artistry.
The combination of geological beauty and the serene atmosphere creates a truly unforgettable hiking experience. Be sure to take your time to soak in the surroundings and capture the unique beauty of this remarkable natural wonder.
Is Antelope Creek Paddle Trail Busy?
We left early in the morning, so there was nobody on the water or in the canyon when we began our adventure. When we started hiking back to where we parked our kayaks, we started to see more and more people. It can get busy on this adventure, but the crowds are incredibly less than the insane crowds in Upper Antelope and Lower Antelope Canyon.
Now, this adventure is not quite as spectacular as Upper Antelope Canyon, but if you want to see Antelope Canyon without a tour or to see Antelope Canyon without the large crowds, this is the best way to do it.
I have to say that this was my favourite adventure while I was exploring Page, Arizona.
How Long Do I Need for the Full Adventure?
If you’re more like the average person, the kayak in and out will be 1.5 hours each way. So plan for about 3 hours on the water.
The hike part of the adventure will take 1-2 hours, depending on your speed and how often you stop for breaks or photos.
On the AllTrails app, it states that the average time of completion for the Antelope Creek Paddle is just under 4 hours. So, if you plan to be gone for about 4-5 hours, you should be good. If you stop lots for photos, then prepare for a little bit longer than that.
What to Wear
Bring a sweater if you’re going early in the morning, and the weather is cooler because you might get chilly. If you end up getting too warm with the sweater, just take it off.
I wore comfortable shores, a one-piece swimsuit and brought a sweater in case I got cold. I got in the kayak bear foot and had a pair of hiking shoes in the kayak’s storage compartment to put on once I reached land.
You can do this hike easily with a pair of runners, so hiking shoes are not completely necessary. My partner just wore his regular running shoes, a sweater for the morning and a pair of joggers.
In Arizona, it tends to get pretty hot during the day in April, which is when we went, and during the summer, it is even hotter. So just make sure to check the weather before you go, and dress accordingly.
Everyone is different. I’m from the Northern Ontario area, so I can’t handle scorching temperatures very well, as where my partner is used to a much warmer climate.
Once again, comfortable and practical attire will enhance your overall experience regardless of the season. By dressing thoughtfully and being prepared for varying temperatures and the weather that day, you’ll be able to fully enjoy the breathtaking scenery and unique atmosphere of the canyons without any discomfort or distraction.
What to Pack
Small Backpack
Make sure to bring a small backpack filled with some goodies you might need for your adventure.
Swimsuit and Towel
I wore a swimsuit even though it wasn’t necessary. I was expecting to want to get in the water at some point. At the spot where we parked the kayaks, the water had lots of weeds and wasn’t really swimming quality, but plenty of people were jumping in when they returned from their adventures.
If you plan on swimming, you can bring a towel. If you don’t want to go barefoot on your watercraft, you can wear the shoes you plan on hiking in or wear sandals, which are much more comfortable and breathable.
Snacks and Water
Pack some snacks and a lunch. We brought some leftover pizza from the previous day, trail mix, and other delicious snacks. We also brought some Liquid IV and plenty of water.
I like to pack my snacks in stashers. Stashers are an eco-friendly way to pack your snack and lunches for your hikes instead of using plastic baggies, creating plastic waste. You can get them in a clear/white, or you can get them in the cute multi-coloured option. They are available in different sizes and variety packs as well, so you can choose what fits your needs.
Camera Gear and Dry Bag
And most importantly, remember to bring your camera and any lenses you wish to use, as well as a dry bag to store all your belongings so they don’t get wet if you tragically fall out of or tip your watercraft.
Pee Cloth
I also love bringing a pee cloth on my hikes. I genuinely believe in and live by leaving no trace. We need to protect the planet in every way we can. Bringing a pee cloth helps reduce toilet paper use, and who wants to see toilet paper flying in the wind on a trail? That’s gross!
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Things to Know About Getting to Antelope Canyon Without a Tour
Flash Floods
Flash floods do happen from time to time in Antelope Canyon. I am no expert on this matter, so it would be a good idea to do some research to get more information.
Some things you can do are:
- Check the weather: avoid the canyon if there’s rain or storms nearby, as flash floods can happen quickly when there is heavy rainfall.
- Listen for sounds: some people say that an oncoming flash flood might make a similar sound to a train, rumble, or thunder. The canyons tend to amplify the sounds as water rushes through
- Look for signs: be aware of your surroundings and watch for warning signs like rising water levels.
But once again, I am not an expert on this matter, so please do your research before you go to ensure your safety.
Water
Arizona is a desert, so it can get very hot, especially during the summer months. Make sure to bring plenty of water to last you the whole adventure.
I would bring a CamelBak or at least two Nalgene water bottles. Both of these options are lightweight until you put water in them, but it’s better than bringing a heavy metal water bottle that gets even heavier. Plus, if you go with two Nalgene bottles, you can keep one for the kayak trip, and the other can go on the hike with you.
Of course, you can bring more water than this if you want or need to.
I also nearly always bring some Liquid IV on my adventures. They’re great tasting and packed with electrolytes and vitamins to help keep me hydrated and energized.
Leave No Trace
As always, please keep the leave-no-trace principles in mind.
Dispose of waste properly. Many places have their own regulations regarding waste disposal. Pack out what you pack in. Do not leave any litter around, and pick up your garbage. Anything you brought on the hike should return home with you. And, of course, follow the other leave-no-trace principles.
Don’t Write on the Walls
This goes hand in hand with the leave-no-trace principles. Antelope Canyon’s natural masterpiece of swirling sandstone formations, narrow passageways, shapes and patterns took centuries to come together from the wind and water erosion.
Mother Earth created this masterpiece over centuries. Please don’t ruin it by writing on the walls or leaving marks and scratches anywhere. Let’s leave this place just as magical as when we found it.
Keep Right at the Fork
On this hike, you will eventually come to a fork in the trail. The trail you want to follow continues to the right. Some people don’t go all the way, but I did because I wanted to see everything.
It was definitely worth it to go all the way to the end.
Start Early
Arizona can get very hot during the summer months and even in April. Starting early means it’ll be a little cooler, and there will be fewer people.
I started kayaking at sunrise; we were the only two people on the lake. By the time we were hiking back down the trail to return to the marina, we saw a bunch more people, and there were about 30 kayaks parked in the water.
But starting early with less crowds means better opportunities for photos!
Another thing worth mentioning is that if you go early, the water will be much smoother if the weather is nice. There are almost no boats on the lake, which means there will be minimal waves caused by motorized watercraft.
On the way back, however, Lake Powell will be filled with people doing all types of water activities, including tons of motorized watercrafts creating lots of waves, some of which can get big. This makes kayaking more challenging and more susceptible to tipping over.
If you see a bigger wave coming in, angle yourself to face the wave instead of having the wave hit the side of your kayak.
Costochondritis
Okay, this is not super likely to happen, but it can happen. I know this because it happened to me.
Before starting off on this adventure, I had a slight, centralized chest pain that I had gotten in the past. It always went away in a few days and never got worse, so it seemed normal to me.
After getting back from this adventure and pushing myself a little too hard, I ended up getting severe chest pain that made it impossible for me to do anything. I’m 90% sure it was costochondritis. I couldn’t even hold a glass of water or lift my arms. My partner did everything for me for a few weeks before I finally got better.
I’m not saying this to scare you but to remind you not to push yourself too hard while kayaking. This doesn’t happen to everyone, nor does this happen often. But if you sometimes get pain in your chest, take it slow and take it easy.
Is Kayaking to Antelope Canyon Better than the Upper Antelope Canyon Tour?
Upper Antelope Canyon and the Antelope Creek Trail are two very different adventures that will allow you to explore two different areas of Antelope Canyon.
I preferred kayaking to Antelope Canyon over the Antelope Canyon tour mostly because it’s much cheaper, there are fewer crowds, and it’s more of an adventure, which is exactly why I travel.
I also loved Upper Antelope Canyon, even though the crowds were massive and it was pricey. The mesmerizing landscape was just incomparable to any other slot canyon I’ve ever explored.
If you have to choose one, decide what your budget is or what type of adventure you want to have. Do you have the money for the Antelope Canyon tour? Or would you rather have a fun, half-day adventure you can do entirely on your own?
I do have to say that I don’t think either is better than the other. It really just depends on what you want out of your trip. Why not do both if you have the time and the money?
Conclusion: Kayaking to Antelope Canyon Without a Tour
If you want to see Antelope Canyon without a tour, kayaking to Antelope Canyon on the Antelope Creek Trail is the perfect way to do it. You will get an epic, half-day adventure, fewer crowds, and unique views of Antelope Canyon that not as many people know about.
A tour of Upper Antelope Canyon is worth it if you have the budget for it, but personally, I would do both if you have the time and budget. Nothing beats an epic adventure on the water, to a hike on foot, through a canyon that took hundreds of years to form.
I promise you, it will be an epic adventure you want to take advantage of!
Thank you for stopping by, and happy adventuring ♡
Krista x.
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