Antelope Canyon is known for its abstract, flowing shapes. Situated in northern Arizona State, it is one of the world’s most visited and photographed slot canyons. Millions of years of flash flooding and storms have carved out a narrow passageway and smoothed out the sandstone, leaving us with breathtaking scenery that one can only call a divine work.

Located in the Navajo Indian Reservation,  Antelope Canyon is separated into the Upper Antelope Canyon, or “The Crack,” and the Lower Antelope Canyon, known as the “The Corkscrew”. For either canyon section, tourists are required to be accompanied by a licensed native Navajo guide. This is partly due to safety concerns, but also to support the local community and protect the canyon from being flooded by too many tourists. The experienced guide can offer historical or cultural insights to kick it up a notch.

According to Navajo oral traditions, herds of pronghorn or antelope used to dwell and graze in the area, giving Antelope Canyon its name. Navajo see it as a sacred site for quiet reflection and communication with the spirits of nature.

Even if you are no professional when it comes to photography, Antelope Canyon is full of sights to be captured. The sunbeams that pour down casting a fiery hue upon the rocks, the sky bursting in through the narrow slits where the canyon meets the surface, and the mystical radiance from the cave itself make for an experience of myriad wonders.

Of course, it takes more than a good camera to take a phenomenal picture — timing and weather are essential. At the same time, to appreciate the stunning scenery in person is an opportunity few would want to miss.

If you come to Antelope Canyon, don’t forget to visit the Horseshoe Bend just five minutes drive away from Page Town, and immerse yourself in another masterpiece of nature. Horseshoe Bend is accessible by car or on foot and is free of charge.

Author:Leo Tim