This is part two of my Northern AZ Trip Series. Check out part one first here!
Of course, we first hit up the REI and a local craft beer store. Initially, we were supposed to camp, but we had a super early reservation for a tour of Antelope Canyon, and it was very cold and rainy that evening. We spent the night at a hotel in Flagstaff, AZ.
We headed to Page, AZ—about 130 miles north of Flagstaff— early the next morning.
Here’s the biggest pro tip no one told us: The Navajo Nation in Arizona DOES OBSERVE daylight savings time. And in case you didn’t know, Arizona is the only state that does not observe daylight savings time—meaning we never change our clocks! On your way northbound from the Phoenix area, you cross through several areas, and your phone clocks change, causing widespread panic in your car and leaving you thinking you missed your tour time.
Luckily, after a brief panic, we read the tour email. While hosted by the Navajo Nation, they specify that the tour observes Phoenix time. We were safe!
There are two options for Antelope Canyon Tours: Upper and Lower. We did quite a bit of research to decide which tour to do. Below is some info that may help your group decide:
Upper Antelope Canyon
Lower Antelope Canyon
We chose the Upper Antelope Canyon tour. Our booking email recommended arriving a bit early for check-in. There are portapotties and seating available at this entirely outdoor facility. When our group was called, we hopped on a converted truck/trailer that drives you to the slot canyon a few miles away, and the tour begins there.
Inside the slot canyon, it was a bit chilly in mid-May. Exiting the canyon after a tour, it was sweltering—dress in layers. Each group consisted of about eight or so individuals plus a guide, and our group was the first to enter.
Our tour guide had many iPhone photography tips and tricks for us and helped each member of our group get some truly amazing photos inside the canyon.
Throughout the tour, I struggled with how I felt about the experience. While it was so beautiful to see, I had a hang-up on how this place can be so culturally significant to the Navajo Nation, while some just visit for an Instagram photo.
Of course, I wanted to have photos of this experience too, but I genuinely struggled through some intense feelings of “what is the point of this all” throughout. I’ve noticed these days, a number of gorgeous, natural places—especially those on Native land— are being exploited for social media clout and profit. It’s very much a case of to each their own, but traveling to see a place such as this and then spending the whole time behind your phone screen taking photos rubs me the wrong way.
Luckily, I brought along some great gal pals who were willing to hear me out and help me shake this weird disingenuous feeling. This moment was truly a reminder to exist in the now. Soak in the experiences and don’t get too caught up in the screen. I did love that we were able to learn a bit about Navajo Nation history and that our tour was led by a Navajo guide.
I urge anybody who this blog has reached to take a step back and consider the reasons behind your desire to visit some of the world’s most beautiful destinations. Escape that tiny computer in your hand. Take in your surroundings and do so for the experience, not just for the photos.
This reminder isn’t to shame people for taking photos—heck, you can see 10 of mine above this section. This is a reminder that so much lies beyond your phone’s screen. Take a moment to soak it all in while you’re there.
Next, we went to Lake Powell Espresso in Page, recommended to us by our tour guide. Page is a tiny, native town. There aren’t many activities in this area, but I wanted to experience a local coffee shop and support more people in the Navajo Nation while I was in town to do this tour. We went to this very cute Cafe right next to Ace Hardware. They had delicious food, a great cold brew, and good coffee drinks for my friends. After this brief stop, we decided to continue onward to the next stop.
My expectations of this place were low— all the photos appeared overexposed, too edited, and the water level always looked so low.
I didn’t know what to expect, but it ended up being more beautiful than I imagined. If you’re looking for a very accessible way to see nature, this is the trail for you.
If you have the America The Beautiful National Parks pass, parking is included; otherwise, parking is $10. The trailhead has ample visitor parking and serval signs that lead visitors to a gravel path.
From there, hikers begin a half-mile descent to Horseshoe Bend.
Horseshoe Bend was one of the hottest parts of our Northern Arizona trip; there was no shade at the viewpoint. While it was only around mid-May, the temperatures soared to 80-90 degrees, with the sun baking everything, including us.
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and ample water on this short trail, even if you think you won’t need it.
The viewing area has an overlook with a rail—helpful at the viewing location if you’re afraid of falling, are clumsy, or have small children. Otherwise, you’re free to walk and climb all around the area.
Horseshoe Bend was way more impressive than I thought it would be.
I’ve learned to generally have zero expectations for places because you tend to be disappointed when you do. The Great Sand Dunes National Park is a perfect example: I thought I would hate it—I don’t like the sand or the beach. I had low expectations, went with the flow, and expected nothing; after, the Great Sand Dunes National Park became one of my favorite National Parks.
Flowing through Horseshoe Bend is the Colorado River. People can kayak, paddleboard, and camp over a thousand feet below the top where the river lies.
The Horseshoe Bend is about 4,200 feet wide and comprises three rock layers: the bottom is a layer of Kaibab Limestone, the middle is a layer of Coconino Sandstone, and the top is a layer of Hermit Shale.
