Paddle boarding Antelope Canyon from Lake Powell has been on my bucket list for a long time. As a Southern Utah local I have hiked and gone canyoneering through many slot canyons in my time, but I have never had the opportunity to go paddleboarding through a slot canyon.
When my brother invited me last minute to paddle board Antelope Canyon with him in Lake Powell, I was in!
In this post I am going to share with you all the tips and things I learned from paddling Antelope Canyon so you can add it to your Southern Utah bucket list!
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Is it possible to see Antelope Canyon without a guide?
Where to rent a paddle board or kayak?
How to get to the Antelope Point Launch Ramp?
Getting your boards down to the water
Navigating the paddle board section of Lake Powell
Navigating the hiking section of Antelope Canyon
Paddling back out
When is the best time of year to paddle board to Antelope Canyon?
Why it's important to pay close attentions to the weather
What time of day should you go?
(Video) How To Paddleboard Antelope Canyon + Best Lake Powell Paddle Boarding & Beach Camping ⛺️ @ Lone RockList of things to bring with you
Paddle board vs kayak?
Can you paddle board Antelope Canyon with kids?
Other things to check out in the area
IS IT POSSIBLE TO SEE ANTELOPE CANYON WITHOUT A GUIDE?
The section of Antelope Canyon we paddled to is not part of the protected Navajo Nation land.
To visit the protected areas of Antelope Canyon, you must purchase a guided tour. The tours are in the $130-$200 per person range and require advanced booking. The tours fill up quite far in advance, so if you want to see the protected section of Antelope Canyon, make sure to book tickets as soon as you know your travel dates.
The route we took does not require a permit or a guide. We started at the Antelope Point Launch ramp, paddle boarded Lake Powell for 2 miles to the very bottom portion of Antelope Canyon. We hiked up Antelope Canyon for 3 miles until we hit a dead end and had to turn around.
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Several guide companies in Page & Lake Powell offer a full guided experience. They will bring the kayaks/paddle boards to you and guide you up the canyon. So all you have to do is show up. Those tours are in the $200 range.
WHERE TO RENT A PADDLE BOARD OR KAYAK?
I got lucky because my brother has two inflatable stand-up paddle boards, so we didn't have to deal with the hassle and expense of renting one. If you don't have an awesome brother with a paddle board like me, you will need to rent one.
There are quite a few kayak and paddle board rental shops around Page, AZ, and Lake Powell. Unfortunately, in my research, I couldn't find any with inflatable boards. That's a bummer if you don't have a car to which you can tie kayaks or paddle boards.
The closest rental company I found that will rent inflatable paddle boards is Outdoor Rush in St George. Renting a board in St George is an excellent option if you are staying in Hurricane, Saint George, or are traveling from Las Vegas.
HOW TO GET TO THE ANTELOPE POINT LAUNCH RAMP?
The launch ramp is located a few miles north of Page, AZ, at the end of Antelope Point Road. Don't turn into the marina. CLICK HERE FOR DRIVING DIRECTIONS.
GETTING YOUR BOARDS DOWN TO THE WATER
Since the water level in Lake Powell has gotten so low, the launch ramp is no more. You can drive your car down to the end of the launch ramp, unload your boards, and then take your vehicle back up to park.
You will have to walk your boards down a steep and rocky path. Not gonna lie, it sucks! Getting the boards up the steep rocky path at the end of the day when you are exhausted really is the worst.
NAVIGATING THE PADDLE BOARD SECTION OF LAKE POWELL
We started our paddle at 10:30am and it took us about 45 minutes to get to the hiking portion of Antelope Canyon. It is a two-mile paddle from the launch ramp.
You will paddle south, to the left, around a bend, and then take the first and only inlet to your left. You can't miss it.
The first section of the paddle will be a little choppy from the passing boats, but once you get to the Antelope Creek section, the sandstone cliffs will close in around you, and the water will get calm. This part was my favorite.
A few boats and jet skis passed us, stirring up the water. They went slow, but they were annoying. It was so nice to have the quiet and calm water when there weren't any boats and jet skis in the canyon.
Towards the end of the paddle board section, the water got very mucky with logs and debris, and it didn't smell nice. I don't think it's like this at all times of the year.
*The start of the hiking portion
NAVIGATING THE HIKING SECTION OF ANTELOPE CANYON
We hiked up to the slot canyon about 3 miles until we hit a big wall and turned around. The hiking portion took us 3 hours at a pretty fast pace.
Hiking through this section of Antelope Canyon is beautiful. The slot canyon was tight in some places and had beautiful light. The swirly sandstone cliffs were towering above us the whole way. There is a decent amount of rock scrambling and navigating up and over big rocks and around stagnant water.
In the middle of the hike, you will come to a section where you must choose to go right (straight) or left. We took the path going straight.
The hike out definitely felt longer than the hike in. If I had to do it again, I don't think I would have hiked all the way to the end. Six miles was a lot of hiking, and we still had to paddle out plus carry our boards up that steep rocky path. By the end of the day we were worked pretty hard........haha!
PADDLING BACK OUT
It took us about an hour to paddle out. We were both tired and hot. Once out of Antelope Creek, the water was very choppy with all the boats out on the water. It was also a little windy.....in the wrong direction :-(. We went slow and stopped at a sandy section along the side to rest and swim.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO PADDLE BOARD TO ANTELOPE CANYON?
We paddled Antelope Canyon the end of September. It was a great time to go because the temps weren't too hot in the middle of the day. Early spring/summer I think, would be equally as nice.
In the middle of the summer, June - August when the temps get into the 100's you will need to go super early, like right at sunrise. Make sure to take lots of swimming breaks to cool off.
It seems like this would be a challenging adventure in the winter. It would be quite cold, and I'm not sure how you get around getting your feet wet while getting on and off your board.
WHY IT'S IMPORTANT TO PAY CLOSE ATTENTION TO THE WEATHER
If it is windy or rainy, I would rethink your adventure. The wind is super hard because it could make your paddling twice as difficult. If it is raining or stormy at all you should not be near a slot canyon. It's not safe.
WHAT TIME OF DAY SHOULD YOU GO?
Go first thing in the morning. The earlier the better. This will ensure you have less choppy water to deal with, temps will be cooler, it's usually less windy in the mornings, and there will be less chance of boats, and jet ski's in Antelope Creek messing up the water.
LIST OF THINGS TO BRING WITH YOU
WATER SHOES OR HIKING SANDALS - You will be getting your feet wet, so water shoes or hiking sandals are a must. I love my TEVA's
NATIONAL PARKS PASS - The Antelope Point Public Boat Ramp has a $30 entrance fee, but you can get in free with your America the Beautiful annual parks pass
HIKING CLOTHES - Wear comfortable, light and breathable clothes for hiking in the desert heat.
SWIMSUIT - You will want to jump in the water at some point, so make sure to have a swimsuit on under your hiking clothes
SUNSCREEN - Always take sunscreen with your wherever you go in the desert!
HAT & SUNGLASSES - The sun is intense. Having a hat and sunglasses is a must.
LUNCH, SNACKS, AND LOTS OF WATER - You will use lots of energy on this adventure so bring plenty of food, snacks, and water.
HIKING DAY PACK - During the hiking portion, you will want a small backpack to carry snacks, lunch, water, and anything else you don't want to leave back at the paddleboard.
DRYBAG, CAMERA & PHONE - You will want to have a camera or phone to capture some memories of your adventure. Bring a dry bag to make sure they stay out of the water.
LIFE VEST - Safety first!
PADDLE BOARD VS KAYAK?
I don't think it matters if you do this adventure with a paddle board or a kayak. The biggest thing to think about is the weight. Make sure that whatever you have is as light as possible so that you can carry it up and down the steep hill.
CAN YOU PADDLE BOARD ANTELOPE CANYON WITH KIDS?
This isn't an easy adventure, but if your kiddos are active and good little paddlers, they can do it. Just make sure to pick a day that isn't windy. If there is extra room, you could also add them to your kayak or paddle board.
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OTHER THINGS TO CHECK OUT IN THE AREA
There are tons of great things to check out while visiting Page & Lake Powell. Check out the famous Horseshoe Bend overlook as well as Glan Canyon Damn.
If you are coming from Kanab, Hurricane, or St George, check out these spots along the way.
Belly of the Dragon
Moqui Caverns
The Toadstools
Paddle boarding Antelope Canyon is such a great adventure to add to your bucket list while visiting Page & Lake Powell. It may take some extra preparation, but if you are down for an adventure, it is a unique way to experience a slot canyon in the southwestern desert.
Happy Adventuring,
Arika
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FAQs
How do you paddleboard in Antelope Canyon? ›
The route to paddle into Antelope Canyon
It is pretty simple though. Just put in at the Antelope Point Marina, then paddle along until you can take a left into a canyon, then paddle till you hit land.
Join us on a 4.5 hour Antelope Canyon paddleboard tour. With our knowledgeable and experienced guides you will paddle approximately 2.5 miles in (5 miles round trip) to where the water ends, from there you will hike through the beautiful slot canyon which is only accessible by water.
Can I go to Antelope Canyon without a guide? ›CAN I GO TO ANTELOPE CANYON BY MYSELF? No, the Antelope Canyon is protected by the Navajo Parks and Recreation and only authorized tour companies can take visitors to the canyon. Safety and preventing vandalism are the main reasons why everyone needs a guided tour; the canyon became unavailable to the public in 1997.
Where can I paddleboard in Antelope Canyon? ›The town of Page is in the middle of Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend – both of which will be on your agenda and is the easiest spot to pick up your water adventure equipment. Lake Powell Paddleboards has you covered for both boards, kayaks, life jackets and detailed canyon maps.
Where is the best place to paddle board in Lake Powell? ›Best Paddle Spots:
The best way to access the lake is to rent a houseboat and tour up lake for a week, that way you can see many different areas that you cannot get to by car. The two best places to paddle without using a boat are: Antelope Canyon and Lone Rock Canyon.
Upper Antelope Canyon is easier to walk through but also is much darker than Lower Antelope Canyon due to the Upper Canyon being shaped like the letter “A.”
What are the best hours for Antelope Canyon? ›Best time of day to visit Antelope Canyon
Planning your visit between 11 am and 1:30 pm, when the sunlight is perpendicular to the canyon, will give you the best chance of seeing these famed Antelope Canyon light beams for yourself.
Upper Antelope Canyon is shaped like an upside-down “V,” narrow at the top and wide at the base. This canyon is wider at the bottom than Lower Antelope Canyon, so it feels less claustrophobic and it's easier to walk through.
Which one is better Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon? ›Upper Antelope Canyon is more internationally famous and therefore busier. However, Upper is better equipped to handle larger crowds than Lower during peak season in mid to late summer. Upper Antelope Canyon is also easier to enter, so tour groups with elderly or physically-limited travelers go to Upper.
How much walking is required at Antelope Canyon? ›The hike to Antelope Canyon is a very simple up and back that is just a little bit more than half a mile. With the crowds in the canyon stopping to take photos at every turn, the pace of the hike is slow. This hike is suitable for all age groups and fitness levels.
Is one day enough for Antelope Canyon? ›
One day is enough to see Antelope Canyon. The Antelope Canyon tour takes one to two hours depending on the tour you have purchased. This leaves you with plenty of time to book a second tour if you'd like to see a second part of the canyon or visit Horseshoe Bend.
Can you paddleboard at Lake Powell? ›Lake Powell is listed as the #1 SUP (stand up paddle) Wonders of the World by SUP Connect. Come see our unique building that we built out of recycled shipping containers. We are your one-stop paddle shop at Lake Powell! If you are looking to paddleboard or kayak on Lake Powell, we've got what you need!
Where to launch paddle board Lake Powell? ›You can still launch your Paddleboard or Kayak at any of the access points on the lake. Which includes Bullfrog Marina, Wahweap Marina and Antelope Point Public launch ramp. Even though the water level is at a low, Lake Powell still has plenty of water to enjoy.
Can you paddle board at Tibble Fork Reservoir? ›Seasons. From mid/late Spring through early Fall (May-September) is your best chance to stand up paddle (sup) board the Tibble Fork Reservoir.
Where do you launch the paddle board at Canyon Lake? ›Canyon Lake recreation sites
There are three recreation sites to launch from: Acacia Picnic Site, the Palo Verde Recreation site, and Boulder Creek Recreation Site, which are open all year round.
Not to be worried, stand up paddle boarding is an incredibly easy water sport to learn, and you can become an expert paddle boarder in no time. People of all ages and fitness levels are capable of learning to paddle board in just a few hours with proper instruction.
Do you need to swim to paddle board? ›You can paddle board if you don't have the ability to swim, however, I would only recommend that you paddle board in deeper waters if you are able to tread water comfortably, so that you have time to pull your board back to you and climb on.
Is Lower Antelope Canyon better in the morning or afternoon? ›As for the best time of day to visit Lower Antelope Canyon, go for either early morning or mid-afternoon as these tours tend to be quieter. Crowds in the lower canyon fluctuate in size during the day, so keep this in mind when planning your adventure.
Which Antelope Canyon is better for seniors? ›Both the upper and lower canyon have their pros and cons so you will have to choose what is a better fit for you. The upper canyons are larger and are a better fit for anyone that has physical disabilities or is elderly.
Is Lower Antelope Canyon claustrophobic? ›To top it off, if you get claustrophobic or cannot tolerate crowds, then Lower Antelope Canyon is not for you. On the other hand, Upper Antelope Canyon is wider and roomier. There is more space to spread out and you do not feel as claustrophobic.
What is the best time of year to see the light beams in Antelope Canyon? ›
The peak season at Upper Antelope Canyon runs between May and September. This is because those are the months where the famous light beams are visible for visitors to enjoy. You will want to make sure you visit during this time of year if the lights are your primary reason for booking a tour.
Is it cold inside Antelope Canyon? ›Short Answer: During the winter months, it gets very cold inside Lower Antelope Canyon, while the remainder of the year sees mild to hot conditions. During the warmer months, the canyon's interior tends to be around 8 degrees cooler than its exterior.
Can I do Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon in one day? ›But can you do both Lower and Upper Antelope Canyon in one day? Short answer: Yes, you can do Lower and Antelope Canyon in One Day, but it's important to plan your visit carefully. Long answer: It's possible to do both in one day but, depending on your travel plans, it might be difficult.
What is the secret Antelope Canyon? ›Antelope Canyon is a slot canyon in the southwestern United States. What's a slot canyon, you might ask? It's a narrow canyon formed by the wear of water rushing through rock (of the sandstone and limestone varieties). Slot canyons are always significantly deeper than they are wide.
Which Antelope Canyon is more beautiful? ›We would say that Upper Antelope Canyon is the more picturesque of the two and will take your breath away (especially if you visit in the summer and get those light beams). However, both are very beautiful so remember we are comparing two exceptional slot canyons.
Why is Antelope Canyon so expensive? ›Upper Antelope Canyon tours are generally more pricey because it's the only place to see the magical sunbeams.
Is Antelope Canyon senior friendly? ›Tours of the Lower Antelope Canyon begin in a parking lot out in the desert, adjacent to the canyon entrance. Upper Antelope Canyon is better for seniors, people who can't climb ladders, children, and people with mobility issues. Lower Antelope Canyon is less expensive, and more crowded.
What part of Antelope Canyon is the best to visit? ›Upper Antelope Canyon, which can be known as the Crack, is by far the most popular of the two slot canyons that make up Antelope Canyon as a whole. This beautiful canyon has been featured on Top Unbelievable Places List.
How much time between Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon Tours? ›What is this? After visiting the upper canyon on the guided tour and seeing the light beams in the canyon, head to Lower Antelope Canyon. Keep a minimum of 3 hours difference between both the tours. You can book Lower Antelope Canyon for 1:30 or 2 pm.
What is the best time of day to see Lower Antelope Canyon? ›The best time of day to visit Lower Antelope Canyon Arizona is between 10:30 AM and 12:30 PM. More light enters the canyon during this time so you can see more colors in the walls. If you're using an iPhone, try experimenting with the filters.
Can you touch the walls in Antelope Canyon? ›
Peekaboo and Antelope Canyon Similarities
In many places, one can touch both canyon walls at the same time. Both Antelope and Peekaboo are carved from the exact same type of rock: The 190-million-year-old Navajo Sandstone formation.
What is this? The walk through Lower Antelope Canyon is by no means challenging, but it's definitely more adventurous than Upper Antelope. The roughly one-and-a-half-hour tour starts by going down a 75-foot staircase. And, due to its narrower base, you'll have to climb a few ladders along the way.
Can I see Horseshoe Bend without a guide? ›Day Tours from Las Vegas include both locations. Can I visit Horseshoe Bend without a guide? Yes. Visitors walk along the 20-30 min path to arrive at the overlook.
Is it hard to walk the Antelope Canyon? ›The hike is fairly easy and not super difficult. Lower Antelope Canyon is a little more rigorous, there are stairs to climb.
Is it worth going to Lower Antelope Canyon? ›See the light beams in Upper Antelope, or see the orange swirls of Lower Antelope. You won't be disappointed with either option! Lower Antelope Canyon is absolutely worth it, just as much as Upper Antelope Canyon.
Can you paddleboard at Horseshoe lake? ›Horseshoe Lake is a preferred destination for stand-up paddleboarding and you can launch from anywhere on the sandy shore. If you need to rent and you have a way to transport the boards to the lake there are a few shops in Mammoth Lakes that offer rentals. There are also a few marinas that rent paddleboards.
Can you swim with a paddleboard? ›All that's required is a stretch of legally accessible water, some gear for swimming, and away you go. If you're a keen paddler and wild swimmer then one thing you could do is combine both. Using your SUP to access those out of the way wild swimming spots makes perfect sense – the synergy's tangible.
Can you swim in Lake Powell? ›Swimming is a popular activity at Lake Powell, especially in the summer when water temperatures can surpass 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Please be aware that there are no life guards or designated swim beaches at Lake Powell or on the Colorado River.
How many launch ramps are open at Lake Powell? ›As of March 31, 2022, out of all 15 boat ramps in Lake Powell, only one is available to all vessels — Wahweap Stateline Auxiliary Launch.
Can you paddle board on Antelope Island? ›Antelope Island State Park, one of the most iconic spots in Davis County, is a picture-perfect place to kayak or paddleboard.
Do you have to pay to go to Tibble Fork Reservoir? ›
Note: Tibble Fork and Silver Lake are managed by the U.S. Forest Service and require a small day use fee to access. Accessibility: To get to these Reservoirs, take the Alpine-Highland exit 284.
Can you paddle board to Turtle Canyon? ›Kayak, snorkel and surf tour in Oahu
You can choose to paddle out of Waikiki on a paddleboard or kayak towards Turtle Canyon — a prime snorkeling spot.
The most popular way to kayak Horseshoe Bend is by taking a backhaul service 16 miles up river from Lee's Ferry to the Glen Canyon Dam, and then kayaking back down river. Because you'll be paddling downriver, the entire 16 miles can be kayaked as a day trip in about 6 to 9 hours depending on the wind and current.
How is paddle boarding performed? ›Stand up paddle boarding, also known as SUP, is a popular water sport activity that involves standing up on a board and using a paddle to make your way through the water. You'll use your arms while standing or kneeling to propel you and your board forward.
Do you need to be fit to paddle board? ›Paddle boarding is for everyone, as long as you can stand or kneel, and swim – all shapes, all sizes. Body positivity is key here.
Do you need shoes for paddle boarding? ›In the winter, SUP shoes are a must, but in the summer, we suggest you go barefoot. In the cold months, you'll need to wear a neoprene shoe or bootie. That said, if you're launching your board in a shallow spot where there are rocks or sharp debris under the water, shoes are a good idea.
What do I need to bring to stand up paddle board? ›- Swimsuit. A pair of board shorts, a bikini or a one piece will all work great, wear whatever swimsuit you're most comfortable in! ...
- Light shirt. ...
- Hat. ...
- Sunglasses. ...
- Footwear. ...
- Paddle board. ...
- Ankle leash. ...
- Cell phone.
| Lake Powell | |
|---|---|
| Average depth | 132 ft (40 m) |
| Max. depth | 583 ft (178 m) |
| Water volume | Full: 25,166,000 acre⋅ft (31.042 km3) Current (July 31, 2021): 7,875,800 acre⋅ft (9.7147 km3) |
| Residence time | 7.2 years |
Low water levels make trip physically demanding! 5 miles (8km) of paddling, round trip. 2 miles (3km) of hiking up the canyon and back. Maximum weight per person is 250 lbs (113 kg).
Do you need a guide for Horseshoe Bend? ›Can I go to Horseshoe Bend without a tour? Yes, if you are in the Page area, you can visit Horseshoe Bend on your own. Or it is included in a day tour from Las Vegas, that also includes Antelope Canyon.
What are 3 important paddle boarding tips? ›
- Know How to Swim. ...
- Practice on Solid Ground First. ...
- Find a Good Spot to Launch. ...
- Start on your knees. ...
- Stand to Your Feet in One Fluid Motion. ...
- Keep a Wide Stance. ...
- Know Where to Stand on the Board. ...
- Know How to Hold the Paddle.
- DON'T leave your board dirty. ...
- DON'T leave your board exposed to sun. ...
- DON'T store your board incorrectly. ...
- DON'T drag your board. ...
- DON'T transport your board without a bag. ...
- DON'T paddle in shallow waters. ...
- DON'T forget your fins.
As you bring the paddle into position, bend with your knees in order to drive the paddle down. Thinking about driving the paddle down, rather than pulling will lead to a twisting motion of your torso. As you reach the end of your twist, straighten your legs back up in order to lift the paddle out of the water.