The Ultimate Travel Guide on Antelope Canyon to Zion National Park – Everything You Need to Know!
Are you planning a trip to Zion National Park and wondering how you can squeeze in a visit to the stunning Antelope Canyon?
If you have a spare day or two in your itinerary, I highly recommend making the journey – it’s definitely worth it, for Antelope Canyon and the additional sights along the way (such as Horseshoe Bend!).
In this blog post, I’ll cover everything you need to know about visiting Antelope Canyon and Zion National Park, including the distance between the two, the differences between Lower and Upper Antelope Canyon, the best Antelope Canyon tours, and recommendations for how to make the most of your time in both locations.
Let’s get started and plan your unforgettable journey from Antelope Canyon to Zion National Park or vice versa! 😍
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I will get a commission if you decide to purchase through those links, at no cost to you. Thank you for your support!
Be sure to save this Google Map I have created below that highlights all of the places mentioned in this blog post. It’ll be handy to have on your journey from Antelope Canyon to Zion National Park!
The Distance from Antelope Canyon to Zion National Park
The distance from Antelope Canyon to Zion National Park is approximately 150 miles.
It will take you around 2 ½ to 3 hours to drive between the two destinations.
If you’re traveling from out of state, I recommend renting a car as it makes the trip much easier.
We flew into the Las Vegas airport (where I tend to always find the cheapest flights), and we rented a car from there.
However, if a rental car isn’t in the cards for you, or if you’re looking for day trips from Las Vegas or other national parks, I highly recommend checking out day trip tours on Viator!
There are a wide variety of different tour options depending on the length of time you have and what is within your budget.
Here a few of the guided day trip tours from Las Vegas to Antelope Canyon or Zion National Park offered on Viator:
- Lower Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Day Tour with Lunch
- Duration: 12 to 15 hours
- Starting at $189/person
- Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Day Tour
- Duration: 12 to 15 hours
- Starting at $355/person
- Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Small Group Tour
- Duration: 14 to 16 hours
- Starting at $249.99/person
- Zion and Bryce Canyon Small Group Tour from Las Vegas
- Duration: 14 hours
- Starting at $239.99/person
These tours mentioned above could be great options if you’re not renting a car and flying into Las Vegas.
This is definitely not the best option as most of the day trip tours offered do not include both Antelope Canyon & Zion National Park in one, but if this is your only way, it is an option!
What are the Differences Between Lower Antelope Canyon and Upper Antelope Canyon?
Geographical Features
- Lower Antelope Canyon has more narrow passageways and winding paths.
- Upper Antelope Canyon has wider passageways and higher walls. This allows for more sunlight to enter in and reflect off the walls which is why the Upper Antelope Canyon is more popular for photographers.
Crowds
- Lower Antelope Canyon is usually less crowded which can be a benefit if you’re trying to avoid the crowds.
- Upper Antelope Canyon is the more popular of the two, therefore, making it more crowded. This is due to its popularity among photographers.
I highly recommend visiting both Lower & Upper Antelope Canyon if you’re able to!
When Should You Visit Antelope Canyon?
Antelope Canyon is great to visit year-round!
If you’re seeking those infamous light beams shown in the Upper Antelope Canyon, then I recommend visiting during the months of April through September.
If you plan to visit Antelope Canyon during the summer, the temperatures in Page, Arizona (near where Antelope Canyon is located) can reach highs up into the 90s and low 100s (Fahrenheit).
The canyon does provide a slight relief from the hot temperatures (10 to 15 degrees cooler), but you still need to be prepared with plenty of water, sunscreen, and lightweight clothing during the summer months.
Can You Visit Antelope Canyon Without a Tour?
No, you cannot visit Antelope Canyon without a tour.
Both Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon are located on Navajo Land near Page, Arizona and are both protected by Navajo Parks and Recreation.
Therefore, if you want to explore Antelope Canyon, you must book a guided tour with one of the authorized tour companies.
These tours typically include transportation to and from the canyon, as well as a guided experience inside the canyon itself.
Be sure to book your tour in advance as they can fill up quickly, especially for the more popular Upper Antelope Canyon.
Check out more recommendations on Antelope Canyon tours below!
Antelope Canyon Tours
1. Antelope Slot Canyon Tours by Chief Tsosie
Antelope Slot Canyon Tours by Chief Tsosie are well-known for their knowledgeable guides and small group sizes.
They offer guided tours of the Upper Antelope Canyon at various times during the day, including the prime time to photograph the sun beams (10:20 am) if you’re visiting from April through September.
Be aware that children 5 years of age and younger are not allowed on this tour.
If you’re wanting to visit Horseshoe Bend as well, they have a guided tour option that includes Upper Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend!
2. Antelope Canyon Navajo Tours
Antelope Canyon Navajo Tours offer guided tours of both the Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon, either separately or combined if you wish.
Here are some of the guided tours they offer below:
- Deluxe Tour Upper/Lower Antelope Canyon – if you’re wanting to see both Upper & Lower Antelope Canyon
- Upper Antelope Canyon Tour
- Lower Antelope Canyon Tour
3. Antelope Valley Canyon Tours by Ligai Si’ Anii
Antelope Slot Canyon Tours by Ligai Si ’Anii is a family-run business offering public tours of Antelope Canyon and private slot canyon tours.
It is a great option for those who love hiking as they offer a wide variety of tours ranging in difficulty level and duration.
Here are a few of the guided tours they offer below:
- Ligai Si Anii Canyon Tour
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- All Ages
- Moderate Difficulty Level
- Wind Pebble Canyon Tour
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- 6 Years of Age and Older
- Moderate Difficulty Level
- Rams Head Canyon Tour
- Duration: 4 hours
- 12 Years of Age and Older
- Hard Difficulty Level
- Stargazing Night Tour
- Duration: 2 hours
- 6 Years of Age and Older
- Moderate Difficulty Level
4. Ken’s Tours
Ken’s Tours offer a variety of different tours of the Lower Antelope Canyon, with additional add-on excursions worth checking out.
They have three different tours to choose from:
- General Tours
- Guided tour of Lower Antelope Canyon
- Learn about the history & culture
- Deluxe Tours
- Everything the General Tour offers
- Complimentary lunch
- & More
- Combination Package
- Choose from half-day, full-day, or two-day excursions
- Options to choose from include horseback riding, boat excursion, kayaking, and more
5. Adventurous Antelope Canyon Photo Tours
Adventurous Antelope Canyon Photo Tours offers several different types of tours of the Upper Antelope Canyon varying in cost, duration, and intensity depending on your preferences.
In addition to Upper Antelope Canyon tours, they also offer tours with add-ons to Rattlesnake Canyon & Owl Canyon.
Please note they do not allow children up to age 7 due to the intensity of the tours.
Can You Do Zion National Park and Antelope Canyon in One Day?
While it’s technically possible to visit Zion National Park and Antelope Canyon in one day, I do not recommend it.
The driving distance between the two locations (2.5 to 3 hours), and the time required to fully experience each destination make it impractical to cram into one day.
I recommend at least two full days in Zion National Park, preferably three days.
As for Antelope Canyon in Page, Arizona, I recommend dedicating two full days (including one overnight stay) for the journey from Zion National Park and potential stops along the way.
Things to Do on the Drive from Antelope Canyon to Zion National Park (or vice versa!)
1. Horseshoe Bend
You must stop at Horseshoe Bend on your drive from Zion National Park to Antelope Canyon – it is arguably one of the most popular stops for good reason!
It offers an outstanding view of the Colorado River as it curves around a dramatic bend in the canyon.
A short walk leads to the overlook and it provides breathtaking views!
It costs $10 to park per their website.
2. Visit The Wave in Kanab (if you get a permit!)
During your drive from Antelope Canyon to Zion National Park , you will pass through the city of Kanab that is home to the famous Wave located in the Coyote Buttes North area.
The Wave is a popular spot for hikers and photographers due to its unique sandstone rock formation which makes its wave-like patterns.
Due to its high popularity, you now need a permit to hike the Wave which is based on a lottery system.
Only 64 people are given permits daily – making them quite hard to secure unfortunately. But, of course it is worth a shot if traveling this way!
3. Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park features acres of pink sand dunes that you can either explore by hiking or on an ATV!
It costs $15 per vehicle per their website.
4. Lake Powell
Lake Powell is a reservoir on the Colorado River and is surrounded by beautiful red rock cliffs.
There are multiple ways you can enjoy Lake Powell, featuring boat tours, fishing, hiking, or just relaxing on the shore.
5. Kolob Canyons
As you approach Zion National Park from the west, consider taking a scenic drive through the Kolob Canyons section of the park.
This lesser-known area offers stunning red rock scenery, hiking trails, and viewpoints that are less crowded than those in the main canyon.
Looking for a Hotel?
Explore Booking.com for your hotel needs – they offer budget-friendly prices and a variety of room types!
Need a Rental Car?
For all your rental car needs, head over to Expedia! It’s user-friendly and offers plenty of affordable options!
Guided Tours/Activities
When it comes to booking guided tours and excursions, my top pick is Get Your Guide!
The Best Things to Do in Zion National Park
Zion National Park started my love for travel and my journey to visit all of the National Parks!
Therefore, it holds a special place in my heart with its rugged beauty and deep canyons – something I have never experienced coming from the Midwest.
Below I have highlighted some of my favorite things to do in Zion National Park that you can add to your itinerary.
If you’re looking for a more detailed itinerary, check out my 5-Day Zion National Park Itinerary to see how I spent my time in Zion!
1. Hike the Observation Point Trail
Observation Point Trail offers the best view in Zion National Park – in my opinion, even better than Angel’s Landing!
The viewpoint makes Angel’s Landing even seem “small”, which is a very unique experience (especially if you hike Angel’s Landing the day before like we did haha!).
As of now, you can only reach Observation Point by taking the East Mesa trail.
This is due to a rock slide that occurred in 2019, closing down the Weeping Rock Trail that you used to be able to get to inside the park.
In order to reach East Mesa Trail, you must take a shuttle there from East Zion Adventures as the Zion Canyon Shuttle inside the park does not go there.
You could also drive your car to the East Mesa trailhead, but I do not recommend this due to the road leading up to the trailhead not being in the best condition. It is not worth the risk in my opinion to damage your car (especially if it is a rental!).
Instead, I recommend booking a shuttle with East Zion Adventures. It only costs $7 per person and it takes you right to the East Mesa trailhead.
We visited during the second week of October and booked it online two days beforehand.
2. Hike Angel’s Landing
If you’re lucky enough to get a permit to hike Angel’s Landing, then this is the time to scratch it off your bucket list!
We were lucky enough to get the Angel’s Landing Permit! To be honest, I was unsure if I was going to be able to do it since I have a pretty healthy fear of heights.
But, getting to the top of Angel’s Landing was not as scary as I thought it was going to be! Don’t get me wrong it definitely had its moments, but I do think the photos and videos of the hike make it look scarier than it actually is (in my opinion!).
If you are unable to get permits for Angel’s Landing or just do not want to hike it (understandably 😁), I still recommend hiking to Scout’s Landing. This is the area just before the chained portion of Angel’s Landing begins where permits are required.
Scout’s Landing still offers amazing views of Zion and no permit is necessary there.
3. The Narrows Hike
The Narrows Hike is another popular hike in Zion National Park that you shouldn’t miss out on!
This was an experience like no other, wading through the Virgin river while being surrounded by towering walls. It is a surreal experience!
We visited during the second week of October, and we rented the dry bib package from Zion Outfitters which I highly recommend if visiting outside of the summer season.
Do beware if you’re visiting during the Spring season, the Narrows could be closed if the flow rate exceeds 150 cubic feet per second.
You can check the current flow rate of the Virgin River here.
4. Zion Canyon Overlook Trail
The Zion Canyon Overlook Trail offers one of the best places to view the sunrise in Zion National Park!
It is only a 1 mile hike round-trip and is relatively easy.
The overlook provides some of the best views of the park especially during sunrise when the orange glow is cast over the canyon.
It was one of our favorite experiences during our trip!
Places to Stay Near Zion National Park
When visiting Zion National Park, most people prefer to stay in the city of Springdale which is where the main entrance into Zion National Park is located.
But, the convenience does come with a price tag!
We chose to stay in an Airbnb in Virgin, Utah which was about 25 minutes away from Zion National Park and a lot cheaper!
Here is the Airbnb we stayed at if you’re interested (it does only accommodate two people).
If you’re wanting the convenience of staying in Springdale near the entrance of the park, here a few hotels I recommend:
If you’re wanting to stay inside of Zion National Park, your only option besides camping is Zion National Park Lodge.
It even has its own shuttle stop along the Zion Canyon Shuttle route, allowing you to have easy access to the park.
If you’re interested in glamping, check out my blog post about the best places for glamping near Zion National Park!
Places to Stay Near Antelope Canyon
When visiting Antelope Canyon, most people choose to stay in Page, Arizona since it is only about 15 minutes away from Antelope Canyon.
Here a few hotels located in Page, Arizona that I recommend:
If you prefer camping, there are campgrounds near Page where you can pitch a tent or park an RV.
Wahweap Campground and Lone Rock Beach Campground are popular options near Lake Powell.
Time Zone Changes While Driving from Antelope Canyon to Zion National Park
When driving from Antelope Canyon to Zion National Park (or vice versa), you’ll encounter a change in time zones along the way.
Here’s what you should keep in mind:
- Mountain Time Zone (MT): Zion National Park is located in Utah, which is in the Mountain Time Zone (MT).
- Arizona Time Zone (MST): Antelope Canyon is near Page, Arizona, also in the Mountain Standard Time (MST) zone. However, Arizona does not observe Daylight Saving Time. So, during the summer months, when other states “spring forward” and move to Daylight Saving Time (such as Utah), Arizona remains on Mountain Standard Time (MST). This means during the summer, Antelope Canyon aligns with Pacific Daylight Time (PDT), resulting in a one-hour difference compared to Utah.
To clarify, when driving from Zion National Park to Antelope Canyon during the months when Daylight Saving Time is in effect (mid March to early November), you will gain an hour. For example, if it’s 8:00 am in Zion, it will be 7:00 am at Antelope Canyon.
Conversely, if you’re driving from Antelope Canyon to Zion National Park during Daylight Saving Time, you’ll lose an hour. For instance, if it’s 5:00 pm at Antelope Canyon, it will be 6:00 pm in Zion.
Outside of Daylight Savings Time (early November to mid March), both locations are on Mountain Standard Time, and there is no time difference between Utah and Arizona.
It is definitely a little confusing, but I hope this explanation helps! Luckily, your phone/GPS should automatically update when the time zone changes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there is no shortage of amazing things to do while at Antelope Canyon and Zion National Park.
Taking time to enjoy the sights along the way from Antelope Canyon to Zion National Park makes the journey well worth it, from the iconic Horseshoe Bend to the Wave (if you’re lucky enough to get a permit!).
Therefore, if you have a few extra days to spare, it is well worth it to explore Antelope Canyon during your trip to Zion National Park.
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