Flash flooding can occur even when there isn’t any rainfall locally
Lion’s Head is one of the most iconic photo subjects in Lower Antelope Canyon. I was fortunate enough to take this photo while on a guided tour through the canyon, which is the only way that you can visit this slot canyon nowadays. In terms of photos of rock formations, this is the one that I’m the proudest of. It can be incredibly difficult to take this photo without having other people in the shot. It can also be a major challenge to have the right lighting so that the photo isn’t overexposed in different parts. I feel like I was able to capture the essence and beauty of this serene part of northern Arizona.
A slot canyon, like Lower Antelope Canyon, is a particularly narrow and deep gorge. They are primarily found in the Southwestern United States of America. A slot canyon can take millions of years to form. They are gorgeous, but they can also be incredibly dangerous. This is due to the fact that they are susceptible to flash floods. Flash flooding can occur even when there isn’t any rainfall locally. When that’s the case, you can’t use your local weather as the judge, as something taking place miles away can cause a rush of flood water to come through the slot canyon that you’re in.
Visiting Lower Antelope Canyon, which is located in Page, Arizona, requires descending a staircase to enter the slot canyon. Tours are required and require an authorized Navajo guide. The tour that we took lasted about one and a half hours, as we learned about the rock formation, the local culture, and had ample time to take photos. If your interested in an easier access to Antelope Canyon, Upper Antelope Canyon starts at ground level and has less than a 2% incline.
When visiting the canyon, be forewarned that there is lots of sand. It’s on the floor of the canyon, and the wind will blow it about throughout the trip. Cover your camera while you’re not using it. The sand is formed by the erosion of Navajo Sandstone. Flash floods and wind erosion are the two most common forms of erosion here.
Cover your camera while you’re not using it
Did you know?
- If you want to take photos of beams of light coming into the canyon, book a tour between 10am and 1pm.
- There is a third portion to this slot canyon called, Flooded Antelope Canyon. This area is accessible by kayak and other small boats.
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