
Waterholes Canyon
Discover the otherworldly beauty of Waterholes Canyon, a less-crowded slot canyon on Navajo land, offering stunning light, unique formations, and adve...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds

Waterholes Canyon
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the otherworldly beauty of Waterholes Canyon, a less-crowded slot canyon on Navajo land, offering stunning light, unique formations, and adventure.
"A magical place where light dances through sculpted sandstone, offering a less crowded, unforgettable adventure."

🚗 Gas Up Beforehand
The Shell station near the sand cave is pricier due to popularity. Fill up elsewhere in Page!
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are essential for navigating uneven terrain and potential rappelling.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Sand Cave
Near a Shell gas station in Page, AZ
A unique, naturally formed sand cave offering a surreal, otherworldly experience. Perfect for photos!

Slot Canyon Exploration
Navajo Nation Land
Wander through narrow, sculpted sandstone walls, a less crowded alternative to Antelope Canyon.

Rappelling Adventure
Various points within the canyon
For the thrill-seekers, experience a 390-foot rappel down the canyon walls for an adrenaline rush.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Consider the Season and Weather
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Gas Up Beforehand
The Shell station near the sand cave is pricier due to popularity. Fill up elsewhere in Page!
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are essential for navigating uneven terrain and potential rappelling.
📸 Capture the Light
The way light filters through the narrow slots creates magical photo opportunities.
🎶 Listen to the Flute
Some tours include Navajo flute music, adding a soulful, unforgettable layer to the experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Gas Up Beforehand
The Shell station near the sand cave is pricier due to popularity. Fill up elsewhere in Page!
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are essential for navigating uneven terrain and potential rappelling.
📸 Capture the Light
The way light filters through the narrow slots creates magical photo opportunities.
🎶 Listen to the Flute
Some tours include Navajo flute music, adding a soulful, unforgettable layer to the experience.
🗺️ Consider Combo Tours
Look for tours that combine Waterholes Canyon with other Page attractions like Horseshoe Bend for efficiency.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Waterholes Canyon's stunning sandstone formations and the magical light that filters through the narrow slots. It's praised as a less crowded, more intimate alternative to Antelope Canyon, offering unique experiences like rappelling and a memorable sand cave. Some tours are enhanced by cultural insights and music, making for a truly unforgettable visit.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Waterholes Canyon is located just about 5 miles outside of Page, Arizona, on Navajo Nation land. Many tours depart directly from Page, often meeting at a designated spot or picking you up. Some videos mention a short walk from a Shell gas station to access a specific sand cave feature.
While the main entrance might be accessible by car, some tours involve off-road rides in 4x4 trucks to reach more remote parts of the canyon, especially for those seeking a less crowded experience.
Most visitors drive to Page, AZ, as it's a common stop on road trips through the Southwest. It's accessible via major highways from cities like Las Vegas, Phoenix, and Flagstaff.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Waterholes Canyon is on Navajo Nation land and requires a guided tour with a licensed Navajo guide. You cannot visit independently. Booking a tour in advance is highly recommended.
Tour prices can vary depending on the operator and the duration of the tour. Combo tours that include other attractions like Horseshoe Bend might offer better value. Expect prices to be in the range of typical Antelope Canyon tours.
Yes, tours can range from simple guided walks to more adventurous experiences like rappelling or 4x4 off-road excursions. Some tours focus on photography, while others emphasize the natural beauty and cultural significance.
No, independent visits are not permitted. All visitors must be accompanied by a licensed Navajo guide. This ensures the preservation of the canyon and provides a safe experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The best light for photography is typically mid-morning to early afternoon when the sun is higher, creating dramatic light beams and highlighting the sandstone colors. However, early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds.
While generally photography is allowed and encouraged, always check with your specific tour operator. Some tours might have restrictions on tripods or professional equipment, especially during peak hours.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the slot canyons. A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial. Consider a polarizing filter to manage glare and enhance colors.
Many visitors find Waterholes Canyon to be a stunning and photogenic alternative to Antelope Canyon, offering unique formations and a less crowded atmosphere for capturing incredible shots.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Expect to walk through narrow sandstone passages, climb ladders, and potentially rappel depending on your tour. Guides will share insights into the geology and Navajo culture. The experience is often described as magical and otherworldly.
This depends on the specific tour. Some tours are family-friendly, while others involving rappelling or strenuous hiking might be better suited for older children or adults. Always check age restrictions with your tour provider.
Tours can vary in length, but a common duration for a guided experience is around 2-3 hours. Combo tours that include other attractions will naturally be longer.
The physical demands vary by tour. Basic tours involve walking on uneven terrain. More adventurous tours can include significant climbing, rappelling, and navigating narrow spaces.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for tours that offer a good balance of exploration and manageable physical activity. Some guides are excellent at engaging younger visitors with stories and interesting facts about the canyon. Ensure your children have appropriate footwear and are prepared for the desert climate.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider booking a tour that allows ample time for photography, or even a dedicated photography tour if available. A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to capture the scale of the canyon. Be prepared for varying light conditions and embrace the challenge of shooting in a narrow, often shaded environment.
⛰️ Adventure Seekers
Other adventurous elements include navigating narrow passages and climbing ladders. When booking, ensure the tour operator is reputable and prioritizes safety. The unique combination of adventure and natural beauty makes Waterholes Canyon a memorable destination for the daring traveler.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navajo Nation and Cultural Significance
It's important to remember that you are a guest on this sacred land. Respectful behavior, adherence to guide instructions, and proper waste disposal are paramount. Supporting tours operated by the Navajo Nation contributes directly to the local community and helps preserve these incredible natural and cultural sites for future generations.
Adventure and Thrill-Seeking
Beyond rappelling, some tours incorporate ladder climbs through narrow sections of the slot canyon, adding an element of challenge and excitement. These adventurous elements make Waterholes Canyon a destination for thrill-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts looking for an experience beyond a typical scenic walk.
When booking an adventure tour, ensure you are comfortable with the physical demands and any potential risks involved. Always prioritize safety and follow the instructions of your experienced guides. The reward is an unforgettable adventure amidst stunning natural beauty.
Photography Opportunities
While often compared to Antelope Canyon, Waterholes Canyon provides a less crowded environment, allowing photographers more freedom to compose their shots and capture the essence of the place without constant interruption. The sand cave feature is particularly iconic and a must-capture for any visitor.
To make the most of your photography experience, consider visiting during the optimal light hours (mid-morning to early afternoon) and bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the canyon. Always be mindful of your surroundings and respect the natural environment while you shoot.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit