Antelope Canyon X Hiking Tour (with Option Upgrade to Photo Tour)

When it comes to the stunning landscapes of Northern Arizona, Antelope Canyon is often at the top of many travelers’ lists. But if you’re looking for a more intimate experience that avoids the crowd-heavy routes, the Antelope Canyon X Hiking Tour is worth considering. This tour offers a visit to a lesser-known part of the canyon, with the option to upgrade for a full photo-focused experience.

What caught our eye? First, the smaller groups and guides promise a more relaxed and personalized adventure. Second, the spectacular views of the X-shaped Navajo sandstone formations make this tour visually compelling. On the flip side, a potential challenge is that the tour is only about 1.5 hours—so if you’re craving a lengthy exploration, you might find this a bit brief.

This experience is especially suitable for those who want to see a beautiful canyon with fewer crowds and appreciate the opportunity for great photos—particularly if you upgrade for the photo tour. It may not be ideal for travelers seeking a long, in-depth canyon trek or with very limited mobility, but overall, it offers a balanced introduction to this unique landscape.

Key Points

• Smaller group sizes mean more personalized attention and fewer crowds.
• Optional photo upgrade allows more time and equipment use, great for serious shutterbugs.
• Accessible terrain with minimal ladders, but some walking involved.
• Excellent guides who share insights and help with photographs.
• Timing and booking generally 21 days in advance, so plan ahead.
• Price point around $79.99, often seen as reasonable considering the knowledge and scenery.

An Overview of the Tour Experience

The Antelope Canyon X Hiking Tour is a solid choice for those eager to see a beautiful canyon without the huge crowds that flock to Upper and Lower Antelope. It’s operated by Scenic Bend and rated highly, with a 4.5 out of 5 based on 137 reviews, indicating most travelers find it worthwhile.

The tour typically lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, starting from the Navajo Nation Reservation in Page, Arizona. The journey begins with a short drive—about 3 miles—via a 4×4 vehicle across the desert, which sets the tone for a scenic adventure even before entering the canyon itself.

Once you arrive, you’ll hike in about 100 meters into the canyon, exploring the X-shaped Navajo sandstone formations that give this area its name.

The canyon itself is a newer, less crowded section of Antelope Canyon, which means you’ll have more space to appreciate the formations and take photos without feeling rushed or overwhelmed by crowds. Guides are on hand to assist and share interesting facts, enriching what might otherwise be just a pretty view.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour kicks off at the meeting point on Highway 98 at Milepost 308, in Page. After a quick check-in, you’ll board a 4×4 vehicle for the short desert ride. This part of the trip is quick but adds to the adventure, giving you a taste of the surrounding landscape before you step into the canyon.

Once at the canyon entrance, the guide will lead you down a staircase into the slot canyon for a short walk—around 100 meters—to the first section. This part of the canyon features stunning narrow passages and dramatic light beams that filter through the sandstone, especially during certain times of the day.

If you opt for the photography upgrade, you’ll spend about 2.5 hours in the canyon, giving you ample time to set up shots, use tripods, and really capture the canyon’s essence.

After exploring the first slot canyon, you’ll walk another 200 meters to the second section, which is equally impressive. Guides are attentive, sharing tidbits about the canyon’s formation, local flora, and the Navajo culture. Several reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge and their willingness to take photos for guests, which is a huge plus if you’re there to capture memories.

What Travelers Love About the Tour

Many reviews emphasize the personalized experience that the smaller group sizes afford. One reviewer noted, “Groups limited to 3 people per guide who was very knowledgeable,” which makes the experience more intimate and less rushed.

Guides like Ethel, Tyler, Kayla, and Brandon are praised for their friendliness, patience, and helpfulness—often assisting with photo tips and taking great pictures of guests.

The spectacular scenery is consistently highlighted as a major draw. Reviewers frequently mention how “beautiful” the canyon is and how it feels like a “magical” place, especially during moments when light beams hit the sandstone walls. The X-shaped formations are unique and visually captivating, making it a great spot for both casual visitors and photography enthusiasts.

The value for money also comes through loudly in many reviews. Most travelers agree that, given the scenery, guides’ expertise, and the exclusive access to a less crowded canyon, the $79.99 price tag is reasonable. Some even note that spending extra on the photo tour is worth it if you’re serious about taking high-quality images or want more time to explore.

The Photo Tour Upgrade: What’s in It for You?

The upgrade to the photography tour is a key feature for those wanting more from their visit. For an additional cost, you get roughly double the time—about 2.5 hours—to snap photos, experiment with different angles, and use tripods. Many reviews describe this as a “life highlight,” with some guests saying they had the canyon to themselves during the photo session, which added a special touch.

This longer time frame is perfect if you’re passionate about photography or simply want to slow down and enjoy the scenery at your own pace. The guides are helpful with tips on camera settings and best spots for capturing the canyon’s beauty, which elevates the experience for hobbyists and pros alike.

The Experience in Practice

During the longer tour, you’ll have opportunities to explore more sections of the canyon, spend time setting up your shots, and appreciate the quiet and solitude that the lesser-known Canyon X offers. Several travelers have described the photo tour as “magical,” especially when the canyon is empty and the light is just right.

However, keep in mind that the photo tour is only available with a small group, which means a limited number of spots. If you’re not into photography or don’t want to pay extra, the standard tour still offers plenty of stunning visuals and a memorable experience.

Accessibility, Logistics, and Practical Tips

The tour involves some walking—about 100 meters into the canyon—and a staircase to descend into Canyon X. While the terrain is generally flat, it’s not suited for those with physical limitations or who have difficulty walking. The reviews mention that guests should be comfortable walking on uneven terrain and climbing stairs, with some noting the presence of about 100 steps.

Weather can impact your experience, especially since the canyon is outdoors. The tour is dependent on good weather—if the weather turns poor, the tour may be canceled, with options for rescheduling or a full refund. It’s wise to check the weather forecast ahead and plan accordingly.

Group size is limited—usually a maximum of 10 travelers—which contributes to the overall positive reviews. Smaller groups mean more personalized interaction, but some reviews have noted that larger groups do sometimes exceed the 10-person maximum, which is something to watch out for.

Timing is important; most travelers find it best to book at least 3 weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons. Arriving early at the meeting point—at least 45 minutes before the departure—is recommended, as late arrivals are not refunded.

What to wear? Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes are a must. No flip-flops or open-toed shoes, for safety reasons. Bring water, as it’s provided, but no food or snacks are included.

Children and families: While not explicitly designed for kids, the terrain is manageable for most, provided they can walk and climb stairs. Strollers aren’t permitted, and infants will need to be carried.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is particularly suited for photography enthusiasts who want extra time and control over their shots. It’s also a good pick for travelers who prefer a more secluded and peaceful canyon experience, away from the crowds of Upper and Lower Antelope.

If you’re after a quick, scenic visit and don’t mind sharing the canyon with larger groups, the standard tour will still satisfy. However, if you’re looking for a more personalized, quiet adventure with ample photo opportunities, the upgrade is worth considering.

Travelers with some mobility concerns should assess their comfort with walking and stairs. The tour isn’t tailored for very young children or those with physical limitations, but older kids who can handle stairs might enjoy it.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re drawn to Antelope Canyon but want an experience that avoids the crowds, this Antelope Canyon X Hiking Tour offers a compelling option. It combines manageable group sizes, engaging guides, and the chance to see a stunning natural formation in a more relaxed setting. The option to upgrade for better photos adds another layer of value, especially for those who love capturing landscape shots.

The experience’s moderate price point makes it accessible, and the consistent praise for the guides underscores its quality. While it’s not the longest or most in-depth tour out there, it strikes a good balance between scenic beauty and practical accessibility.

This tour is ideal if you cherish memorable photos, enjoy quieter spots, and appreciate guided insights. It might not be your best choice if you’re seeking a lengthy canyon hike or traveling with very young children, but for most travelers craving a beautiful, less crowded canyon experience, it hits the mark.

FAQ

Do I need to book this tour in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 21 days ahead to secure their spot, especially during peak seasons.

Does the tour include transportation back to the meeting point?
Yes, the tour ends back at the original meeting point after exploring the canyon.

Are there options for different departure times?
Yes, multiple departure times are available—you can select your preferred start time when booking.

Can I bring my own camera or tripod?
Absolutely. For the photo upgrade, tripods are encouraged, and guides are happy to help with camera settings.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It's manageable for children who can walk and climb stairs comfortably. Infants will need to be carried, and strollers are not permitted.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing with closed-toe shoes. Bring water; food is not provided.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you'll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Exploring Antelope Canyon X offers a quieter, more personalized way to take in one of the Southwest’s most breathtaking sights. Whether you’re a photographer eager to capture perfect shots or just seeking a peaceful canyon adventure, this tour has plenty to offer.