Antelope Canyon Kayak and Hike Slot Canyon

If you’re dreaming of experiencing the natural beauty of Utah and Arizona’s stunning landscapes, the Antelope Canyon Kayak and Hike Slot Canyon tour offers a unique way to connect with one of the Southwest’s most iconic sights. While we haven’t personally taken this specific tour, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a compelling picture of adventure, scenery, and discovery. With a balance of water-based exploration and walking, this experience brings you close to the area’s vivid colors and towering sandstone walls—all in just about four hours.

What we love about this experience is how it seamlessly combines kayaking on Lake Powell with an up-close walk through the lower part of Antelope Canyon. It’s perfect for travelers who want a more active, immersive adventure rather than just taking photos from afar. Plus, the fact that the tour provider handles the logistics—carrying kayaks and managing the route—means less hassle for you and more time to enjoy the views. However, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour is somewhat dependent on weather conditions and the group size, which can affect the overall experience.

This tour suits those who appreciate a mix of outdoor activities, stunning scenery, and learning from knowledgeable guides. If you’re after a balanced, authentic experience that avoids the crowded, commercialized feel of some other tours, this one might be just right. It’s ideal for active travelers, nature lovers, and anyone wanting to see the vibrant reds and purples of Antelope Canyon from a fresh perspective.

Key Points

• Combination of kayaking and hiking offers a varied way to experience the canyon’s beauty.
• All logistics are handled by the tour provider, making the experience more relaxed and enjoyable.
• The scenery is highly praised, with steep canyon walls, vibrant hues, and tranquil waters.
• The tour includes professional guides with certifications in CPR, First Aid, and ACA, ensuring safety and knowledge.
• Group size is limited to 11, providing a more intimate experience.
• Cost is $139.87 per person, offering good value for a half-day adventure filled with natural wonders.

Starting Point: Lake Powell as Your Gateway to Adventure

The tour begins with a pickup or meeting at the designated spot in Page, Arizona. From there, your guide, who is certified in CPR, First Aid, and ACA kayaking, takes charge. The first part of the journey involves picking up kayaks and gear—which are all supplied—so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own equipment. The guide’s role is fundamental here, especially with their local knowledge and safety training, which adds confidence for those new to kayaking or exploring unfamiliar terrain.

Once on Lake Powell, you’ll paddle into the entrance of Antelope Canyon, surrounded by towering, colorful walls. The calm waters provide a peaceful setting, perfect for absorbing the scenery without the distraction of turbulent currents. The guide will share insights into the geology and history of the area, elevating your experience beyond just paddling. The setting itself is almost surreal—smooth sandstone walls stretching skyward, illuminated by soft light filtering down through narrow openings.

What makes this part special is how accessible it feels. We loved the way the guide takes care of all the heavy lifting—literally—carrying kayaks over the sandy beach and setting up for you. That means less time fussing with gear and more time on the water soaking in the views. According to reviews, many visitors appreciated the professional guidance and the chance to paddle through these majestic walls, with one reviewer describing it as “absolutely stunning paddling through the calm waters of Lake Powell surrounded by towering canyon walls.”

Exploring the Lower Antelope Canyon: The Walk of Color and Texture

After roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes of kayaking, your adventure shifts gears. The guide will assist in beaching the kayak and then lead you on foot into the lower part of Antelope Canyon. This section is often less crowded than the upper canyon but equally spectacular, offering a more intimate look at the canyon’s narrow, winding passages.

Expect to walk through an area known for its vivid red, orange, and purple hues—almost like stepping inside a giant, natural watercolor. The guide explains the geological forces that shaped these walls, adding context to what you see. The lower canyon’s tight sections and undulating curves offer fantastic photo opportunities, especially when sunlight hits the canyon walls just right.

One reviewer recounted how the hike through the lowest part of the canyon was “breathtaking,” emphasizing the stunning scenery. It’s worth noting that this part of the tour is about an hour long and designed to be accessible for most, though some sections may require navigating uneven ground or tight spaces.

Returning via Lake Powell: Final Opportunities for Photos and Relaxation

The last leg of the tour involves paddling back through Antelope Canyon, again on Lake Powell, providing a different perspective of the canyon walls. This segment lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes and offers the chance for some final photographs, swimming if time permits, and just soaking in the tranquility of the water.

According to reviews, the repeat paddling through the canyon provides a chance to appreciate the scenery from different angles and capture those perfect shots. One reviewer mentioned that “paddling through the calm waters surrounded by towering canyon walls was surreal,” illustrating the calming effect of this water-based part of the journey.

The tour is priced at $139.87 per person, which includes all necessary gear—kayaks, life jackets, paddles, and a dry bag—and guided instruction. The inclusion of all equipment simplifies planning and ensures accessibility for most travelers, even those new to kayaking. The small group size—limited to 11 travelers—enhances the experience, allowing for personalized attention and fewer crowds.

Timing-wise, the whole experience lasts around four hours, making it a perfect half-day adventure. It’s important to note that snacks and bottled water are not included, so bringing your own refreshments is advisable, especially considering the physical activity involved. Also, private transportation isn’t included, so arranging your own way to the meeting point is necessary.

One key consideration is the weather, as poor weather can lead to cancellations—something you might want to plan around. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing some peace of mind if weather concerns arise.

Authentic Experiences and Mixed Reviews

While many praise the scenery and the adventure, some reviewers have noted aspects that could be improved. For example, one reviewer felt that the guide “didn’t really explain much,” leading to a less engaging experience. However, others found the guide’s knowledge and safety certification reassuring. It’s clear that the success of this tour can depend heavily on the guide and group dynamics.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re seeking a more active way to experience Antelope Canyon, this kayak and hike combo offers an authentic, scenic adventure. It’s perfect for those who enjoy water activities, want to see the canyon from a different angle, and are comfortable with some physical effort. The small group size and all-inclusive approach add value, especially for travelers who prefer a hassle-free experience.

However, if you’re looking for a more comprehensive or guided narrative experience, or if you prefer a less physically demanding activity, you might find this tour somewhat limited. Still, the stunning views and the chance to paddle through some of the most iconic scenery in the Southwest make it well worth considering.

Active travelers who want to combine kayaking and hiking in a single tour will find this experience engaging and rewarding. Nature lovers and photography enthusiasts will thrill at the chance to capture vibrant canyon walls from water and land. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate small-group tours with professional guides. It’s less ideal for people looking for a purely sightseeing trip or those with mobility issues, given the physical nature of the activities involved.

Overall, this tour offers a refreshing way to explore one of the Southwest’s most breathtaking landscapes—an adventure that is balanced, immersive, and packed with photo-worthy moments.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, as all equipment is provided and guides are certified, beginners can participate. However, some physical effort is involved, so a basic level of fitness is helpful.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes around four hours, including kayaking, hiking, and travel time.

Are meals or snacks included?
No, snacks and bottled water are not included, so it’s advisable to bring your own refreshments.

Do I need a national park pass?
The tour price does not include a national park pass, so you might need to purchase one separately if required.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and footwear suitable for walking and water activities. Bring sun protection and any personal items in the provided dry bag.

Is transportation provided?
No, private transportation to the meeting point is not included, so plan accordingly.

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.

The Antelope Canyon Kayak and Hike Slot Canyon tour stands out as a well-rounded, memorable way to see one of the Southwest’s most beautiful landscapes. With the mix of paddling on peaceful Lake Powell and walking through the vibrant, narrow corridors of Lower Antelope Canyon, it offers a blend of adventure and scenic beauty that’s hard to beat.

This experience is best suited for active travelers who enjoy outdoor pursuits and want an up-close look at the canyon’s striking colors and textures. The small-group setting and professional guides add safety and intimacy, making it a reliable choice for those who want a personalized, authentic adventure.

While some may find the guide’s explanations lacking, the overwhelming praise for the scenery and the unique water-and-land combination makes this tour a compelling option. It’s a great way to escape the crowds and see the canyon from a perspective few others will have—paddling through a natural sculpture gallery with plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

Considering the price and included gear, it offers good value for a half-day adventure. Just remember to plan your transportation and bring some snacks, and you’ll be ready for a memorable day in the American Southwest’s stunning landscape.