Antelope Canyon to Grand Canyon: A Complete Guide for 2024
PLANNING A TRIP FROM ANTELOPE CANYON TO THE GRAND CANYON?
We can help! We’ve been traveling together since 2010 and have spent months exploring the Southwest. Trust us when we tell you, Antelope Canyon and the Grand Canyon are two of the most stunning places in Arizona.
Antelope Canyon, found near Page, is known for its visual beauty and vibrant colors. The Grand Canyon is a vast expanse that can easily take days to explore. This guide will help you plan your road trip from Antelope Canyon to the Grand Canyon in 2023.
Getting to Antelope Canyon from the Grand Canyon
Getting to Antelope Canyon from the Grand Canyon is fairly easy. The most direct route takes about 2 hours and follows US 89 and US 98. There are multiple different Grand Canyon entrances, so how long it takes can vary. If you are going from the North Rim or the South Rim, it will take just over two hours. If you are coming from the West Rim, it will take considerably longer.
Here are a few different ways to get around this beautiful part of the country.
Rent a Car
If you want to rent a car, your best option will be renting from the Flagstaff airport or whatever airport you are flying into. This will give you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Join a Guided Tour from Las Vegas
Las Vegas is only 4 hours away from Antelope Canyon, and there are guided tours available. This tour from Las Vegas will take you to the Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, and the Horseshoe Bend in one day. This is a pretty long day, as the tour is around 18 hours long. But the great thing is you don’t have to do any of the driving.
Check out this Grand Canyon South Rim, Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend Day Tour from Las Vegas for a highly rated, fun-filled day from Las Vegas.
▶ BOOK Antelope Canyon Tour from Las Vegas
How far is Antelope Canyon from the Grand Canyon?
The Antelope Canyon to the Grand Canyon is approximately 120 miles apart and will take about 2 hours, depending on where you are planning on visiting the Grand Canyon.
The Grand Canyon is huge. If you are visiting the North, West, or South areas of the Grand Canyon will have a significant difference in the time it takes to get to Antelope Canyon. If you’re traveling with kids, make sure to pack some road trip toys.
North Rim of the Grand Canyon to Antelope Canyon
If you’re coming from the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, it will only take 2 hours to reach Antelope Canyon. This route follows US 89 and goes into Utah before reaching Antelope Canyon.
West Rim of the Grand Canyon to Antelope Canyon
If you’re looking to take a trip from the West Rim to the slot canyon, it will take roughly 5.5 hours of driving. The easiest route is to go South to I-40, which will take you to Flagstaff, AZ, onto US 89 through Page, Arizona. From Page, Antelope Canyon is not far and easy to get to.
You will see the lower canyon and then the upper canyon, but if you keep going past the upper canyon, you will get to Canyon X. Canyon X is also part of Antelope Canyon, but it is farther up the canyon than the Upper Antelope Canyon. Antelope Canyon X is a great tour, but you can’t see the light beams.
A good reason to try Canyon X is that it is less well-known. It costs almost half as much as the Upper Antelope Canyon Tour, and you can book it more last minute than the other sections of Antelope Canyon.
South Rim of the Grand Canyon to Antelope Canyon
If you are coming from the South Rim, then Antelope Canyon is approximately 120 miles from the South Rim of the Grand Canyon and only 2 hours away. The drive is not overly difficult, and it is worth it to check out Antelope Canyon when you are so close.
Make sure to check out the Horseshoe Bend while you are there. You have to pay for parking at Horseshoe Bend, but you don’t need a tour company to take you as you do with Antelope Canyon.
Horseshoe Bend to the Grand Canyon
Horseshoe Bend is only 8.7 miles from Antelope Canyon. If you are going to Antelope Canyon and you can make a short hike, visiting Horseshoe Bend is a must. To get from Horseshoe Bend to the Grand Canyon will take just under 2 hours by car.
You will pass Horseshoe Bend before you get to Antelope Canyon, so you could easily stop here first if you have time before your tour. The parking lot is large and easy to park, but it can get busy. For more information about the hike, check out our hiking guide to Horseshoe Bend.
Booking Your Antelope Canyon Tour
If you’re planning to visit Antelope Canyon from the Grand Canyon, it’s important to book your Antelope Canyon tour ahead of time. The tour is very popular so we cannot stress this enough.
If you cannot get the tour you want, take the Canyon X tour. It is less busy but still an awesome part of Antelope Canyon. Antelope Canyon is located on Navajo land, and all visitors must enter with a tour guide.
▶ Book Upper Antelope Canyon Tour
▶ Book Lower Antelope Canyon Tour
▶ Book Canyon X Tour
Can you go to Antelope Canyon Without a Tour?
You cannot go into Antelope Canyon without a tour. There are only a few tour operators, so your options for tours are somewhat limited. This is why it is important to book in advance, especially if you have a large group.
Upper Antelope Canyon and Lower Antelope Canyon
The Antelope Canyon consists of three parts: Upper Antelope Canyon, Lower Antelope Canyon, and Canyon X. Upper Antelope Canyon is more popular due to its easy access and spectacular slot canyon walls.
The Lower Antelope Canyon tour requires a bit more effort as it involves climbing down ladders and scrambling over rocks, but it is still beautiful. Check out our guide to the best Lower Antelope Canyon tours for more information.
Canyon X is also a great option with Navajo Sandstone walls and sandy trails, but it is a less well-known section of Antelope Canyon. You can read more about the benefits of Canyon X and what to expect in our guide to visiting Canyon X. All three Antelope Canyon tours are worth visiting!
Tips for Visiting Antelope Canyon
- Book your Antelope Canyon tour ahead of time, as Antelope Canyon is on Navajo land and requires a guide to enter.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized throughout your Antelope Canyon tour.
- Avoid visiting Antelope Canyon during peak times to avoid crowds, or visit Canyon X.
- Wear sturdy shoes and dress appropriately for Antelope Canyon’s weather conditions.
- Be sure to follow Antelope Canyon’s safety guidelines and be mindful of your surroundings.
- Take plenty of photos and enjoy the stunning Antelope Canyon scenery!
- You cannot take a typical bag into the Canyon. In the past, they only allowed clear backpacks or bags.
Other Things to See Near Antelope Canyon and the Grand Canyon
This is one of our favorite parts of the country because there are so many beautiful things to see below we have listed many of our favorites.
Las Vegas
Las Vegas is located just over 6.5 hours away from Antelope Canyon and 4 hours from the Grand Canyon, so you can easily add this popular destination to your itinerary. There are lots of ways to tour Antelope Canyon from Las Vegas, even if it is just a day trip.
This vibrant city has plenty to offer, from world-class hotels, casinos, and restaurants, to unique shows and must-see attractions like the Bellagio Fountains, Neon Museum, and the High Roller. You could spend a lot of time exploring Las Vegas and all the excitement there. For more ideas about fun things to do in Las Vegas, check out our article about the best things to do in Las Vegas.
Hoover Dam
The Hoover Dam is located on the border of Arizona and Nevada and is 40 minutes outside of Las Vegas. It is worth stopping at because it does not add much to your trip.
Visitors can take a tour of the dam and learn about its history. The Hoover Dam is a must-see for anyone traveling between Antelope Canyon and the Grand Canyon.
Valley of Fire State Park
The Valley of Fire State Park is located 1.5 hours away from Las Vegas and offers visitors an array of red sandstone rock formations, petroglyphs, and natural arches. There are plenty of hiking trails in the park, as well as a campground for overnight stays. This is a great place to explore and take in the unique landscapes of the Southwest.
If you’re visiting Las Vegas with kids, be sure to check out this state park. It is one of our favorite places to visit in Las Vegas. There are so many beautiful Valley of Fire hiking trails and lots of opportunities to see wildlife.
Route 66
If you have time to spare, consider taking a detour on the historic route 66 as you drive to Antelope Canyon and the Grand Canyon. Route 66 was one of the first numbered highway systems. The route is super cool because when you drive, it feels as though it froze in time. It still features some of the old stores and shops that lined it before it was bypassed.
It is also known as the “Mother Road”, Route 66 is a historic highway and the perfect way to explore Arizona and its unique attractions. With plenty of roadside attractions and historic towns, this is an unforgettable experience! This is a bit of a detour; however, you can just make a quick stop and then go back to Interstate 40.
Williams, AZ
Williams, AZ is a small town located 2 hours and 40 minutes for Antelope Canyon that is just outside of Flagstaff. It has plenty of attractions to explore, including the historic Grand Canyon Railway, Bearizona Wildlife Park, and Antelope Springs Water Park.
If you’ve got some time to spare, Williams is a great place to check out the Southwest culture and enjoy some of the local attractions!
Horseshoe Bend
Horseshoe Bend is a stunning meander in the Colorado River located just 10 minutes from Antelope Canyon. Most people visit Horseshoe Bend for the spectacular views and the opportunity to take some breathtaking photos. It’s best to go early in the morning or late in the afternoon to get the best light for photography.
Be sure to bring a jacket as the winds can be quite strong! This might just end up being your favorite stop on your Antelope Canyon and Grand Canyon itinerary. A wide-angle lens is preferred, or you won’t be able to get a picture of the entire area.
Glen Canyon Dam
Glen Canyon Dam is located is 20 minutes from Antelope Canyon, and it is a fun place to explore for a bit. Visitors can take a guided tour of the dam and learn about its history and importance.
Lake Powell
The man-made Lake Powell is a great spot to explore nature and enjoy some watersports near Antelope Canyon and the Grand Canyon. The lake is accessible from Antelope Canyon, so it’s easy to add this spot to your Antelope Canyon and Grand Canyon itinerary.
Page, AZ
Page, AZ, is a small town located just a few minutes from Antelope Canyon. It’s the perfect spot to find a hotel so you can explore the Antelope Canyon a bit more. Page is also home to Lake Powell. Check out our guide on hotels near Antelope Canyon for some great options for where to stay in the area.
St. George, UT
St. George, UT is located just 2.5 hours away from Antelope Canyon, and it’s the perfect spot for a weekend getaway. The area is home to national parks, which offer plenty of outdoor activities and breathtaking natural landscapes.
If you’re looking to have a great time with your family, this is a great place to visit!
Zion National Park
Zion National Park is located 2.5 hours from Antelope Canyon and 2.5 hours from the Grand Canyon. If you have some spare time or want to add a little extra to your trip, Zion National Park is beautiful. The park is home to stunning canyons, rivers, and pools that are perfect for hiking, biking, and more.
You can read about the fun things to do there in our guide about the best things to do in Zion National Park.
Closest Airports to Antelope Canyon and the Grand Canyon
Even though you can’t fly directly to these canyons, you can fly into one of the closer airports. The closest international airport to Antelope Canyon and the Grand Canyon is McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas, NV (LAS). It is now known as Harry Reid International Airport.
You can also fly into the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport in Phoenix, AZ (PHX) or the SLC airport. There is an airport in Flagstaff, but it is a little smaller; however, it could be a reasonable option.
Whether you’re planning a road trip from Antelope Canyon to the Grand Canyon, or just looking for some interesting spots to visit on your Antelope Canyon and Grand Canyon itinerary, there are plenty of exciting destinations worth exploring. All you need is a sense of adventure and a willingness to explore!
Where to Stay Near the Grand Canyon
When it comes time to find a place to stay near the Grand Canyon, there are a few things to consider. Hotels inside the park can be more expensive but much more convenient. You can stay just outside the park and save some money on your hotel, but you will have a bit longer drive into the park.
For more details about finding a place to stay, check out our guide to the best places to stay near the Grand Canyon.
MASWIK LODGE
Photo Credit: Xanterra Travel Collection
Maswik Lodge is a lovely choice if you’d like to stay inside the Grand Canyon. The canyon rim and Bright Angel trail are just steps away.
The lodge has two restaurants and a bar on-site, free wi-fi, and reasonable to-go breakfasts available for purchase. Enjoy balcony views, a comfortable and clean room, and all the standard amenities. If you enjoy traveling with furry friends, you’ll be happy to know that Maswik Lodge is pet friendly.
▶ Check Rates & Book: Maswik Lodge
⭐️MASWIK LODGE REVIEWS (4.9/5 STARS)
Brand new lodge very clean all perfect rooms very spacious with balcony and comfy beds, great place for Canyon excursions literally less than 10 mins walk from the rim, breakfast is quite basic nothing amazing, it’s all about the location. -Andrea (Expedia Review)
Beautiful lodge and location in the Grand Canyon. Nice clean room with lovely amenities. Food court very convenient and staff very helpful. Great place for our family. -Melinda (Expedia Review)
▶ Check Rates & Book: Maswik Lodge
HOW TO GET TO MASWIK LODGE
📍 Maswik Lodge Address: 202 South Village Loop, Grand Canyon, AZ, 86023 | Google Maps | Book Maswik Lodge Now
Where to Stay Near Antelope Canyon
The closest hotels to Antelope Canyon are in Page, AZ. It is a pretty small town, so there isn’t a large variety of places to pick from. There are some great hotels that will provide a clean and comfortable place to spend the night. For more options for places to stay, check out our guide to the best places to stay in Page, AZ.
COUNTRY INN & SUITES BY RADISSON
Country Inn & Suites will undoubtedly come up while looking for the best places to stay in Page, AZ. It is among the most luxurious hotels in Page, Arizona. This lovely hotel is just a short drive from Horseshoe Bend. It is located eight miles from Lake Powell and four miles from Page Municipal Airport.
This three-star hotel offers numerous facilities. From a fitness center to private parking and a lounge to a bar, this hotel seems to provide everything you could want to relax at the end of a long day of sightseeing.
Country Inn & Suites has a range of rooms to select from. They have queen and king rooms available. All of the rooms include breathtaking mountain views and a tub for relaxation.
▶ Check Rates & Book: Country Inn & Suites
⭐️ COUNTRY INN & SUITES REVIEWS (4.5/5 STARS)
Clean, comfortable, quick check in, good breakfast selection. – Garrett (Booking Review)
Great location. Excellent breakfast. Enjoyed the pool! – Jason (Booking Review)
▶ Check Rates & Book: Country Inn & Suites
HOW TO GET TO COUNTRY INN & SUITES
📍 Country Inn & Suites Address: 880 Haul Rd, Page, AZ 86040 | Google Maps | Book Country Inn & Suites Now
FAQ: Antelope Canyon to Grand Canyon
How far apart are the Grand Canyon and Antelope Canyon?
The Grand Canyon and Antelope Canyon are approximately a 2-hour drive apart.
Can you do Antelope Canyon and Grand Canyon in a day?
Yes, you can do them on the same day. The Grand Canyon South Rim, Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend Day Tour from Las Vegas is a great way to see them if you don’t want to drive yourself.
▶ BOOK Grand Canyon and Antelope Canyon Tour from Las Vegas
Is Antelope Canyon on the way to the Grand Canyon?
This depends on where you are coming from. If you are coming from Colorado or Utah, then you might pass Antelope Canyon on your way to the Grand Canyon. If you are coming from Las Vegas, then you will get to the Grand Canyon before you get to the slot canyon.
Is Antelope Canyon better than the Grand Canyon?
Once you visit these two canyons, you will see they are very different experiences. Which one is better really depends on what you are looking for. The Grand Canyon has many miles of hiking trails. It is a destination that you can spend a few days or a week exploring.
Antelope Canyon takes about 2 hours to go through, and then you will start exploring Page, AZ. The majority of people who spend more than a day or two in the area are going to also explore Lake Powell.
Is Antelope Canyon part of the Grand Canyon?
No, Antelope Canyon and the Grand Canyon are separate attractions. Antelope Canyon is located near Page, Arizona, while the Grand Canyon is located about two hours south. Antelope Canyon is a slot canyon located in the Navajo Nation and is not part of the Grand Canyon National Park.
Conclusion: Antelope Canyon to Grand Canyon
Antelope Canyon and the Grand Canyon are two of the most iconic natural wonders in the United States. Antelope Canyon is a slot canyon located near Page, Arizona, and is absolutely stunning. The Grand Canyon is a huge canyon that is mesmerizing to visit. The expansive canyon is a wonderful sight and a joy to explore.
Whether you’re looking for an adventurous road trip or just some interesting places to visit, Antelope Canyon and the Grand Canyon are sure to provide an unforgettable experience!
