Kayak Antelope Canyon paddle only

Kayak Antelope Canyon Paddling Adventure: An Authentic Water-Based Exploration

Imagine gliding quietly over shimmering waters, surrounded by towering canyon walls that seem to stretch into the sky. For travelers looking to combine adventure, nature, and a bit of sport, the Kayak Antelope Canyon paddle-only tour offers a unique way to experience one of the Southwest’s most breathtaking sites. Priced at $85 per person and lasting around three hours, this tour is a fantastic addition to your Lake Powell visit—if you’re comfortable with paddling and love outdoor pursuits.

What we really like about this trip is how it makes you feel connected to the landscape. Paddling along the Colorado River section of Lake Powell, you get a much more intimate look at the canyon’s sheer walls and natural beauty than you would from a boat tour or a walk. Plus, the experience of navigating through the small bays and coves adds an element of sporty fun that keeps your adrenaline up. And, of course, reaching the magnificent opening of Antelope Canyon is an unforgettable highlight that makes this tour well worth considering.

On the flip side, one consideration is that admission fees for the park are not included in the tour price—an extra $8 per person—so budget accordingly. Also, since this is a paddle-only experience, it’s best suited for those who are comfortable on the water and don’t suffer from seasickness or motion sickness. If you’re seeking a leisurely, sightseeing-focused outing instead of active paddling, this may not be your first choice.

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who want an authentic, sporty perspective of Antelope Canyon and Lake Powell. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate the thrill of being on the water and are eager to see the canyon from a different angle. If you’re looking for a quiet, intimate experience with fewer crowds and a bit of physical activity, this kayak trip could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Authentic water experience provides close-up views of the canyon walls.
• Sporty and active, suitable for those comfortable paddling.
• Includes dry bag and life vest for safety and convenience.
• Park entrance fee not included, so plan for an additional $8.
• Two stops: at Lake Powell and the mouth of Antelope Canyon, covering about 4 miles of paddling.
• Most travelers find it memorable for its stunning scenery and unique perspective.

Detailed Review of the Kayak Antelope Canyon Tour

Starting Point and Overall Setup

The tour begins at the Antelope Point Launch Ramp, a convenient spot on Lake Powell that offers easy access to the water. Once you meet your group, you’ll receive a dry bag and life vest, essentials to keep your belongings safe and ensure your safety while paddling. With a maximum group size of 11 travelers, the experience tends to feel personal and manageable, fostering easy interactions with guides.

The price of $85 per person is quite reasonable, considering the two key components: the paddling itself and the opportunity to see parts of Lake Powell and Antelope Canyon from a perspective few travelers get to enjoy. The duration of approximately three hours includes paddling, sightseeing, and some time to explore the canyon’s opening.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Lake Powell and Lower Antelope Canyon

Initially, you’ll paddle through shimmering waters filled with the energy of passing boats, waves, and the rugged beauty of the shoreline. The first leg involves about 2 miles of kayaking, which takes roughly two and a half hours.

The highlight here is the chance to see towering canyon walls narrowing as you approach the Lower Antelope Canyon section. Many reviews praise the spectacle of the canyon’s narrowing passageways and towering cliffs, with one reviewer noting, “We easily paddled shimmering waters to take in the majestic scenery.”

Expect some sporty fun as you navigate the small bays and coves along the way, with the crashing waves along Antelope Point adding a coastal vibe. The lively water and dynamic scenery make the paddle more engaging than a typical sightseeing boat tour.

Stop 2: Confluence and Canyon Entrance

After exploring Lake Powell and paddling into the canyon’s mouth, your journey continues into the confluence of the Colorado River and Antelope Canyon wash. This part of the trip offers a peek into the prehistoric landscape that has shaped this area over millennia.

As you approach the magnificent opening of Antelope Canyon, many travelers, like Stephanie, comment on how getting to see the canyon from the water gives a different perspective. One reviewer shared, “Getting to see what the lower side of Antelope Canyon looks like from a kayak was a fun change from hiking.”

The final stretch involves paddling back into the main channel of Lake Powell, where the views of Glen Canyon and the surrounding terrain reinforce the sense of wilderness and scale.

The Experience on the Water

Paddling along the Colorado River section offers a more tactile connection with the environment than traditional sightseeing. We loved the way the canyon walls tower above us, their textures and colors shifting with the sunlight. The sound of crashing waves and the gentle sway of your kayak create a calming yet exhilarating atmosphere.

Two reviewers highlight how kayaking is the best way to explore the canyon, with Janine noting, “We enjoyed the shimmering waters and the majestic scenery.” Stephanie adds, “Getting water time in while at Lake Powell was a great way to see the lower side of Antelope Canyon from a different perspective.”

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour lasts around three hours, with most of that time spent paddling and sightseeing. You should be comfortable on the water, as paddling is active and requires a certain level of physical fitness. The group size of up to 11 travelers ensures a relaxed environment but still offers a social element.

Weather considerations are important—poor weather can result in cancellations with full refunds or rescheduling. Since the tour is paddle-only, it’s not recommended for those prone to seasickness.

The park entrance fee of $8 is not included, so travelers must budget for that additional expense.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This paddling adventure suits travelers who crave an active outdoor experience with beautiful scenery and a dose of adventure. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable on the water and want a more personalized, up-close view of Lake Powell and Antelope Canyon. Nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those wanting to escape the crowds of more commercial tours will find it especially appealing.

If you’re seeking a relaxed, leisurely tour, or if you’re not confident paddling, you might prefer a different kind of excursion. But for those excited about sport, nature, and a distinctive perspective, this can be a memorable highlight of your visit.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For the adventurers among us, paddling through the waters of Lake Powell to see the imposing walls of Antelope Canyon from a kayak offers something genuinely different. The experience combines physical activity, stunning scenery, and the thrill of being on the water, making it a well-rounded outing.

The price point offers good value, considering it includes safety gear, a scenic route, and a manageable duration that fits into most travel plans. However, it’s best suited for those who are at ease paddling and seeking an active, intimate encounter with the landscape.

If you’re eager to see Antelope Canyon from the water and enjoy the challenge of paddling in a scenic setting, this tour is a strong choice. Just remember to bring your sense of adventure and a love for outdoor exploration.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
It’s best suited for those who are comfortable paddling and have some experience on the water. If you’re a beginner, you might find the paddle manageable, but it does involve active paddling over about 2 miles.

What’s included in the tour?
You’ll receive a dry bag to protect your belongings and a life vest for safety. The tour does not include the park entrance fee, which is $8 per person.

How long does the actual paddling take?
Most of the tour involves about two and a half hours of paddling, covering approximately 2 miles.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start. Canceling less than 24 hours before results in no refund.

What should I bring?
Bring water, sunscreen, a hat, and any personal items you want to keep dry (using the provided dry bag). Wear comfortable clothing suitable for paddling.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s not recommended for those with seasickness or mobility issues. Specific age restrictions aren’t detailed, but common sense applies.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, poor weather can lead to cancellations with a full refund or rescheduling. Check the forecast beforehand.

How crowded will the tour be?
With a maximum group size of 11, it offers a relatively intimate experience, avoiding the crowds typical of larger boat tours.

In all, the Kayak Antelope Canyon tour offers an authentic, active way to see some of the most striking scenery around Lake Powell. If you’re looking for a memorable adventure that combines sport and nature, it’s worth considering.