Secret Canyon Horseshoe Bend
Discover the magic of Secret Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend with intimate tours offering stunning views and cultural insights.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best colors, fewer crowds
Secret Canyon Horseshoe Bend
Best Time
Best colors, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the magic of Secret Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend with intimate tours offering stunning views and cultural insights.
"Absolutely fabulous tour. Our guide was wonderful, helpful and informative. "
🎯 Book Directly with Tour Operators
Avoid third-party fees and ensure direct communication by booking tours like Secret Antelope Canyon directly.
📸 Camera Settings Help
Ask your guide for tips on phone camera settings to capture the best photos of the canyon.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Secret Antelope Canyon
Page, Arizona
Experience a less crowded, sacred slot canyon with stunning sandstone formations and vibrant colors.
Horseshoe Bend Overlook
Page, Arizona
Witness the iconic U-shaped bend of the Colorado River from a breathtaking viewpoint.
+1
Hidden Sand Cave
Near Shell Gas Station, Page, AZ
Discover a unique, easily accessible sand cave perfect for a quick photo opportunity.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tours Directly
Timing is Key for Photos
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Directly with Tour Operators
Avoid third-party fees and ensure direct communication by booking tours like Secret Antelope Canyon directly.
📸 Camera Settings Help
Ask your guide for tips on phone camera settings to capture the best photos of the canyon.
🚗 Gas Station Cave Stop
Don't miss the quick stop at the 'Secret Cave' behind the Shell gas station for a unique photo op.
💧 Kayak the Colorado River
Consider kayaking for a unique perspective of Horseshoe Bend and the surrounding canyons.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Directly with Tour Operators
Avoid third-party fees and ensure direct communication by booking tours like Secret Antelope Canyon directly.
📸 Camera Settings Help
Ask your guide for tips on phone camera settings to capture the best photos of the canyon.
🚗 Gas Station Cave Stop
Don't miss the quick stop at the 'Secret Cave' behind the Shell gas station for a unique photo op.
💧 Kayak the Colorado River
Consider kayaking for a unique perspective of Horseshoe Bend and the surrounding canyons.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the intimate and magical experience of Secret Antelope Canyon, highlighting the knowledgeable and friendly Navajo guides who enhance the visit with photography tips and cultural stories. The private Horseshoe Bend viewing included in many tours is also a significant plus, offering a crowd-free appreciation of the iconic landmark. While the off-road ride can be thrilling, some may find it bumpy.
"Absolutely fabulous tour. Our guide was wonderful, helpful and informative. Family run business. Only 12 per tour, but could be less depending on signups. Beautiful slot canyon. Time to take photos and ask questions. Private view spot of Horseshoe bend included. I will recommend to friends and family who are visiting Page/Lake Powell area. All photos taken with iPhone."
Mary Bengtson-Wong
"This was an amazing day. It was so nice that we weren’t among the crowds on other tours to lower and upper Antelope Canyon. We also had a private view of Horseshoe Bend. Do not go through third party booking, they charge way too much and give less to the tour company itself. I can’t thank our tour guide Trey enough for his “specialized” tour."
Cindy Quetti
"There was a snafu when we had booked through Trip Advisor. This nearly cost us to miss the tour that we had driven specifically to Page, Az for. The Secret Canyon folks, however, were awesome and accommodated us as they realized the issue and that it was not their fault nor our's. Tyron gave an awesome tour and was so gracious, knowledgeable, and friendly. He helped us with our camera settings to capture amazing memories from the tour. We have learned to book directly through the companies and do the research on Trip Advisor. More goes to the actual tour companies and they will have your contact number(s) if the tour changes occur and to confirm times etc. Secret Canyon Tour was a highlight of our week in Arizona, and I cannot recommend this company and their professionalism highly enough."
John Burroughs
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Secret Antelope Canyon is located near Page, Arizona. Most tours involve an off-road drive, so booking with a tour operator is essential. The 'Secret Cave' is easily accessible behind a Shell gas station on Highway 89.
Yes, Horseshoe Bend has a well-maintained paved path from the parking lot to the overlook.
Renting a car is recommended for flexibility. Many tours for Secret Antelope Canyon include transportation. Consider a backhaul service if kayaking the Colorado River.
While there's a parking fee, there isn't a dedicated shuttle service to the main Horseshoe Bend overlook. However, some private tours may offer exclusive access points.
The Secret Cave is a short walk from the Shell gas station.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, booking guided tours for Antelope Canyon (including Secret Antelope Canyon) well in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season. +1
There is a parking fee of $10 per vehicle to access the Horseshoe Bend overlook.
Yes, there are Upper, Lower, and 'Secret' Antelope Canyon tours. Secret Antelope Canyon tours are often smaller groups and offer a more exclusive experience. +1
No, access to Secret Antelope Canyon is only permitted with a guided tour due to its sacred nature and preservation efforts.
Tours typically include transportation (often off-road), guided exploration of the slot canyon, photography tips, and sometimes a private viewing spot of Horseshoe Bend. +1
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset offers dramatic lighting, but midday can also provide striking contrasts.
Yes, photography is allowed and encouraged inside Secret Antelope Canyon. Guides often provide tips for capturing the best shots.
Guides can assist with phone camera settings. Generally, a wider aperture and adjusting ISO for low light conditions are helpful.
The main overlook provides a stunning, easily captured view.
Drones are generally prohibited at both Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon to protect the environment and visitor experience. Always check current regulations.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike is generally not too difficult, making it accessible for most fitness levels. The tour often includes an off-road vehicle ride.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, layers of clothing, and sun protection.
Yes, restrooms are available at the Horseshoe Bend parking lot.
It's a naturally formed sand cave that's a popular, quick photo stop.
Swimming is not permitted directly at the Horseshoe Bend overlook. The Colorado River below is powerful and dangerous.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the main Horseshoe Bend overlook is a short walk, ensure children are supervised closely due to the drop-offs.
Consider tours that offer a more relaxed pace and opportunities for kids to ask questions. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Horseshoe Bend is iconic for its dramatic curves, with sunset offering particularly breathtaking light.
For a truly unique photographic adventure, consider a kayak tour on the Colorado River, which allows for water-level shots and different perspectives of the canyon. The Hidden Sand Cave also offers a quirky and photogenic subject. 🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
The Hidden Sand Cave is free to visit, requiring only a short walk from a gas station. +1For Secret Antelope Canyon, booking directly with tour operators can often be more cost-effective than using third-party sites.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Slot Canyons Beyond Antelope
Other slot canyons near Page, like Canyon X and Waterholes Canyon, are also mentioned as less crowded options.
When visiting any slot canyon, remember that they are delicate ecosystems. Respect the environment, stay with your guide, and follow all instructions to ensure these natural wonders are preserved for future generations.
The Magic of Horseshoe Bend
The iconic viewpoint offers a dramatic panorama of the canyon, showcasing the power of erosion and the vibrant red hues of the Arizona landscape. While the main overlook is easily accessible, some tours provide exclusive access to less crowded vantage points, enhancing the experience. For a truly unique perspective, consider a kayak tour on the Colorado River.
This allows you to paddle beneath the towering canyon walls and witness Horseshoe Bend from water level, offering a completely different and awe-inspiring view. These tours often include stops at petroglyph sites and other points of interest along the river, making for a full day of exploration. Visiting Horseshoe Bend is a must-do when in Page, Arizona. Whether you opt for the classic overlook or an adventurous kayak trip, the sheer scale and beauty of this natural wonder are unforgettable.
+1Hidden Gems: The Secret Cave
+1 This natural formation is easily accessible and offers a fun, quick stop for photos. Many visitors discover this gem through social media or local tips, adding an element of delightful discovery to their trip.
While not as grand as the slot canyons or Horseshoe Bend, the Secret Cave provides a charming and memorable photo opportunity, often appreciated for its unique character and ease of access. It's a perfect example of how exploring a destination can lead to discovering charming, lesser-known spots that add a special touch to your travel memories.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit