Page - Lake Powell Antelope
Canyon
A few miles east
of Page on the Navajo Reservation exists the most
photographed slot canyon in northern Arizona. Over thousands
of years, wind and water scoured a narrow crevice in the
mesa to form a slot canyon in two sections.
Upper Antelope Canyon
measures a quarter mile long and 130 feet deep. It is
reached by traveling a 3 1/2 mile long dry¾most
of the time¾sandy
wash that runs south from State Route 98. Once at the
entrance, it's an easy stroll through the upper chamber
which is fairly level.
Lower Antelope runs north
from State Route 98 towards Lake Powell. It is more
strenuous since entry and exit requires climbing down and up
ladders bolted to the canyon walls. Access to Antelope
Canyon is restricted by the Navajo Tribe. Visitors must go
with a licensed tour guide from Page or¾when
available¾with
the Navajo concessionaire at the gate.
Seen from the surface, a
slot canyon appears as a slash in the mesa. From within, you
find a palette of colors transmitted by light filtering down
from above and bouncing from wall to wall.
Also known as Slot
Canyon, Wind Cave, Grotto Cave or "The Crack," Antelope
Canyon was first discovered in 1931 by a young Navajo girl
who was herding sheep in the area.
Antelope Canyon has
become a favorite destination for pro and amateur
photographers, tourists and movie producers. The best light is at
midday. Slow speed film, time exposures and tripods are
recommended to get a great shot!
Only authorized tour
operator companies can provide guide service to Upper
Antelope Canyon. |
