What is your absolute favorite thing about Arizona? Endless sunny days? Hundreds of miles of hiking trails? The rugged, ever-changing landscape?
It’s probably safe to say most people will agree that Arizona’s natural landscape is probably one of its best selling points and for good reason! There are numerous spots that brimming with beauty and plenty of contenders for receiving the label of “Most Beautiful Place In The World.” In fact, since we already have one of the seven natural wonder of the world sitting within our boundaries (the Grand Canyon, in case you forgot), there are plenty of other places that could be considered for an eighth spot. Which place would you choose? Here’s the one we have in mind.
Antelope Canyon is a slot canyon sitting in northern Arizona, home to some of the most photographed sandstone curves in the state.
Michele Cannone/Flickr
It is hidden away in the natural landscape, appearing to be just a tiny crack in some places but descending will show you a whole new world.
Pranav_Garimella/Flickr
The slot canyon was formed through water erosion and the sandstone walls clearly show off the waves and curves from centuries of water flowing.
Moyan Brenn/Flickr
Water still regularly floods the canyon following rainstorms and precautions are taken to avoid disasters.
Alex Proimos/Flickr In 1997, a flood swept away 12 visitors, killing all but the tour guide. This led to restricting the canyon’s access to permitted guides and installation of safety features, such as ladders. Despite the tragedy and potential dangers, the canyon is still a popular tourist destination.
Tours start here, at the canyon’s entrance.
Edward Wang/Flickr
A walk through feels ethereal, like you’re discovering a hidden world.
Tom Coates/Flickr
It’s dark in places, the canyon’s walls tower over you, and some areas can get narrow.
Jeff Krause/Flickr
The canyon is a popular spot for photography, so be sure your camera battery is charged and you bring the right equipment for low lighting and narrow places.
Norm Lanier/Flickr
This is one visit you’ll definitely want to add to your bucket list.
James Marvin Phelps/Flickr
Antelope Canyon is part of the Lake Powell Navajo Tribal Park and access is restricted to guided tours only. There are a handful of companies that offer tours and a list of them can be found on the Navajo Nation Parks and Recreation website.
Michele Cannone/Flickr
Pranav_Garimella/Flickr
Moyan Brenn/Flickr
Alex Proimos/Flickr
In 1997, a flood swept away 12 visitors, killing all but the tour guide. This led to restricting the canyon’s access to permitted guides and installation of safety features, such as ladders. Despite the tragedy and potential dangers, the canyon is still a popular tourist destination.
Edward Wang/Flickr
Tom Coates/Flickr
Jeff Krause/Flickr
Norm Lanier/Flickr
James Marvin Phelps/Flickr
If reading about Antelope Canyon has given you a desire to visit some other canyons around the state, you’re in luck! There are plenty to choose from and you can read about some of our favorites in 15 Underrated Canyons In Arizona That Will Take Your Breath Away.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
