Antelope Canyon and Glen Canyon Scenic Day Trip from Sedona or Flagstaff

If you’re craving a day filled with breathtaking scenery, iconic geological formations, and a taste of the American Southwest, this full-day trip from Sedona or Flagstaff is hard to beat. With visits to Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, Glen Canyon Dam, and scenic overlooks of Lake Powell, this tour offers an immersive experience into some of the most photographed sites in Arizona and beyond. At $311.97 per person, it’s a well-priced adventure that offers a lot—if you’re ready for a long day that packs in a lot of natural beauty and memorable moments.

What we really like about this tour is how it balances fantastic photo opportunities with relaxed stops for walking and stretching. Plus, the inclusion of lunch and hotel pickup makes it a convenient way to explore without the hassle of planning logistics yourself. The only consideration? Walking on uneven terrain and some stairs at Antelope Canyon might be challenging if you have mobility issues. This tour is perfect for nature lovers, avid photographers, or anyone eager to see some of the most stunning landscapes in the Southwest.

• Comprehensive Scenic Route: Covers Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, Glen Canyon Dam, and scenic overlooks.
• All-Inclusive Value: Lunch, fees, taxes, and hotel pickup included.
• Picture-Perfect Views: Offers countless opportunities for stunning photos.
• Long but Rewarding Day: Approximately 9 to 11 hours, with early starts.
• Physical Considerations: Walks on uneven terrain and stairs may be challenging.
• Group Size: Small group atmosphere with a maximum of 14 travelers.

This tour is designed for those eager to see the Southwest’s most iconic sights without having to piece everything together on their own. Starting early—around 6:00 am from Sedona or 7:00 am from Flagstaff—you’ll hop into a comfortable vehicle, ready for a full day packed with scenic stops and fascinating history.

The journey begins with a drive through the edges of the Painted Desert, giving you a taste of the rugged terrain and colorful vistas that make this region so unique. As you head north, you’ll enjoy views of Echo Cliffs and the Vermillion Cliffs, which are as striking as the photos suggest. Your guide will share insights into the geology and history of the area, making the scenery even more meaningful.

The first big highlight is Glen Canyon Dam and Lake Powell—a quick stop to admire the engineering marvel and the expansive waterway. From there, you’ll move on to the Horseshoe Bend, a magnificent meander of the Colorado River. Here, you’ll have time to stroll approximately three-quarters of a mile in each direction on packed dirt, with some uphill and downhill sections, so sturdy shoes are recommended.

The true star of this tour is Antelope Canyon, famous for its swirling, wave-like rock formations and the stunning light beams that filter down into the narrow opening known as “the corkscrew.” Our guide will arrange your entry into this Navajo Nation gem, where you’ll walk about 1.5 hours through a section of canyon that’s both a photographer’s dream and a natural wonder.

Visitors should note that recent changes (Summer 2021) require walking on metal steps and inclined ramps for about half a mile to exit the canyon. Over 100 steps, mostly descending, can pose a challenge if mobility is a concern, so it’s worth planning ahead. For those with mobility issues, it’s advisable to request more info beforehand, as some reviews mention over 100 steps and uneven terrain.

Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy multiple photo opportunities—from the vivid vistas of Lake Powell to the intricate textures inside Antelope Canyon. Our reviewer Angi_S called it a trip where “Antelope Canyon was stunning!” and appreciated the many stops for stretching and taking pictures.

After the canyon visit, you’ll make your way to the Vermilion Cliffs, which provide a dramatic backdrop for photos and reflection. The tour briefly stops at Glen Canyon Dam, giving you a sense of the vast scale of the lake and engineering feat.

The final stop is Horseshoe Bend, an awe-inspiring curve of the Colorado River. Here, the walk can be physically demanding, but the view is well worth it. The total walking distance here is about 3/4 mile on packed dirt, with uphill and downhill segments. As Rosemary_S noted, visitors with mobility challenges might want to plan accordingly, as the terrain can be tricky.

This trip is an excellent choice for nature lovers and photographers eager to capture some of the Southwest’s most iconic sights. The early start and long hours mean you should be prepared for a full day, but the scenery makes it worthwhile. If you’re comfortable walking on uneven terrain and climbing some stairs, you’ll find this tour both manageable and rewarding.

It’s also ideal for travelers who want a hassle-free way to see multiple highlights without renting a car or coordinating multiple bookings. The hotel pickup and lunch included add to the convenience, allowing you to focus on the experience instead of logistics.

While $311.97 is not a small investment, it covers a lot: transportation, all fees and taxes, a substantial lunch, and guided insight into some of the most famous sites in the area. The small group size—capped at 14 travelers—means you’re unlikely to feel rushed or lost in a crowd, and your guide can tailor some parts of the experience to your interests.

The fact that this tour is booked on average 21 days in advance suggests it’s popular, and for good reason. The mix of diverse scenery, cultural significance, and photo opportunities makes it an excellent choice for those wanting a comprehensive, memorable day.

If you’re passionate about photography or simply want to see stunning landscapes without the hassle of planning, this trip is worth considering. It offers a balanced mix of natural wonders, cultural insights, and comfortable logistics. Keep in mind the physical demands, especially at Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend, and plan accordingly if mobility is an issue.

This tour is especially suitable for travelers who appreciate well-organized, small-group tours that maximize sightseeing time while providing a relaxed, guided experience. It’s a fantastic way to add a dose of adventure and awe to your Southwest itinerary.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making this a convenient option to start and end your day comfortably.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 to 11 hours, depending on the departure point and traffic conditions.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are essential, especially for uneven terrain and stairs. Weather-appropriate clothing is advised, as much of the day involves outdoor walking.

Are meals included?
Yes, a full lunch is included in the price, ensuring you stay energized for the day’s adventures.

Are there any age restrictions?
Children 8 years and younger must be in a car seat or booster seat, as required by Arizona law. Mobility challenges may limit participation.

Can I expect a lot of walking?
Yes, there will be walking on unpaved, uneven terrain for about 90 minutes total, including the walk at Horseshoe Bend and inside parts of Antelope Canyon.

Is this tour suitable for all mobility levels?
Participants must be ambulatory and comfortable walking on uneven surfaces. Those with mobility challenges should contact the tour provider for more details.

This scenic day trip from Sedona or Flagstaff offers a well-rounded experience of some of the most awe-inspiring sights in the Southwest. With careful planning and an appreciation for the natural beauty, you’ll come away with incredible photos and memories of a landscape unlike any other.