The drive from Antelope Canyon to Horseshoe Bend in Arizona is short yet delightful and scenic. It showcases some of the most breathtaking desert vistas in the American Southwest. Here’s a closer look at this route, including what you’ll find along the way.
Journey Overview Antelope canyon to horseshoe bend arizona
Distance: Antelope Canyon to Horseshoe Bend is about 8.9 miles. Drive time: Approximately 14 to 16 minutes is from Antelope Canyon to Horseshoe Bend, depending on traffic or where exactly you start within the Antelope Canyon area.
GETTING STARTED: ANTELOPE CANYON
Antelope Canyon, located a few miles east of Page, Arizona, is a slot canyon with a wave-like structure and light beams that shine down to the base of the canyon. It consists of two major portions open to tourists: Upper Antelope Canyon and Lower Antelope Canyon. The upper provides a more accessible option, while the lower allows more adventurous, more challenging trail access—both providing stunning views and photo opportunities.
Route
Go west toward Page from Antelope Canyon, then U.S. Route 89 south. Just a few minutes from Page, look for the right-hand turnoff for Horseshoe Bend. This drive has expansive views of the surrounding desert and glimpses of distant cliffs and plateaus.
Destination: Horseshoe Bend
After arriving at Horseshoe Bend, there is a parking area and a 0.75-mile walk to the overlook. The walk is sandy, but it’s generally accessible for all ages. The viewpoint is a spectacular 270-degree Colorado River bend flanked by steep red cliffs. The bright blue-green hues of the river against the harsh red of the surroundings form a beautiful natural formation.
Best Practices for Visiting
- Time: Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend are best visited in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.
- Safety: There are no guardrails at the Horseshoe Bend overlook, so be careful around the edge. Keep children and pets under close supervision.
- Photography: Both spots are known for their photographic opportunities. Take note of the sun’s positioning for optimal lighting, particularly if you’re interested in some of the famed light rays in Antelope Canyon or sunset colours at Horseshoe Bend.
Concluding Tips
Pairing a visit to Antelope Canyon with Horseshoe Bend provides a wealth of stunning vistas and a short drive between two of Arizona’s most iconic sites. Antelope Canyon tours require their permits, and you’ll want to check local conditions—like weather and seasonality—ahead of time. This route not only links two excellent sites but also brings travellers into the heart of the desert’s wild landscape for a profound encounter with the outdoors that is awe-inspiring and humbling.
