Sedona to Antelope Canyon (Tours + Road Trip Guide 2024)

Are you looking for the best way to get from Sedona to Antelope Canyon?
Then you’ve come to the right place!

There are a lot of routes to take and options to consider when planning your trip to Sedona and Antelope Canyon.

There are also a ton of great Sedona to Antelope Canyon tours you can go on if you don’t want to figure out the logistics yourself.

We personally have done this road trip, so we’re here to tell you the ins and outs of how to make the most out of your trip to Sedona and Antelope Canyon.

So pack your snacks and get ready for a road trip or your tour to one of the most fascinating slot canyons in Northern Arizona.

Sedona to Antelope Canyon Overview

In this article we’re going to cover:

• The best tours from Sedona to Antelope Canyon
• Sedona to Antelope Canyon by car
• The best stops when driving from Sedona to Antelope Canyon
• The best time to visit Antelope Canyon
• If you can do this road trip as a day trip or if you should spend the night
• And much more!

The Best Sedona to Antelope Canyon Tours

There are tons of amazing tours from Sedona to Antelope Canyon so choosing which one to go on can be a little overwhelming.

That’s why we have done the hard work for you and found the best Sedona Antelope Canyon tours.

We have compared all of the tours that go from Sedona to Antelope Canyon and picked the very best ones in terms of reviews, what they include, and price.

Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Tour from Sedona

⭐️ RATING: 5.0 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 12 hours | 🏜️ BOOK NOW

What to Expect: 

• This awesome tour starts and ends with complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off in Sedona, AZ
• Lunch and bottled water is provided
• A professional Navajo guide who will help you take amazing photographs
• Picture-worthy views of Antelope Canyon, Oak Creek Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and Glen Canyon Dam Overlook
• A visit to the Cameron Trading Post which specializes in local Zuni, Hopi, and Navajo jewelry, pottery, and artisan crafts
• All admission fees are included
• A small-group tour for a more private experience with no more than 12 guests

“This was a beautiful day-long tour that was well worth every minute of the trip! Our tour guide Mark gave us a wonderful experience throughout the day. Each stop of the tour provided incredible views and scenery and the Antelope Canyon is something you can’t miss. Such a unique and very remote place!”

-Lisa (Read more reviews)

Canyon X and Horseshoe Bend Scenic Tour From Sedona

⭐️ RATING: 5.0 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 12 hours | 🏜️ BOOK NOW

What to Expect:

• This awesome tour starts and ends with complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off in the Sedona and Flagstaff areas
• Lunch and bottled water are provided for each guest
• A fun and knowledgeable professional Navajo guide will accompany the duration of the tour 
• Experience beautiful views in passing of Oak Creek Canyon and Flagstaff
• Set out on a 1-hour hike through Horseshoe Bend that overlooks the scenic Colorado River
• See the natural rock formations of Antelope Canyon via Canyon X during a 1 hour and 30-minute hike
• Take a 15-minute stop at Glen Canyon Dam Overlook, the second-tallest dam in the country
• Spend some time shopping and exploring Arizona Native art at the historic Cameron Trading Post
• All admission fees are included
• This is a small-group tour for a more private experience with no more than 14 guests

“Such an amazing trip! Tour guide (Cat) was fun and knowledgeable! We learned so much while having the best time! Beautiful views, great food, and good company. Once in a lifetime experience!”

-Sarah (Read more reviews)

Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend Small-Group Tour from Sedona

⭐️ RATING: 5.0 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 12 hours | 🏜️ BOOK NOW

What to Expect:

• This tour starts and ends with complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off in Sedona or Flagstaff
• Lunch and bottled water are provided for each guest
• A professional and informative guide will accompany the duration of the tour
• Enjoy a 90-minute walking tour with a professional Navajo guide through Antelope Slot Canyon
• Sit back and relax in a climate-controlled mini-coach touring van with no more than 10 guests
• Get plenty of stops and photo ops at scenic viewpoints: Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Upper Antelope Canyon, Oak Creek Canyon, and Horseshoe Bend
• Explore during a 30-minute stop at Cameron Trading Post for souvenir shopping with the Native vendors
• All admission fees are included
• This is a small-group tour for a more private experience with usually no more than 10 guests

“Our tour guide (Stanton) picked us up from our hotel lobby which was great, he was very professional and accommodating making the ride to our various destinations comfortable and fun. We had plenty of time at each destination. Mario, our Antelope Canyon Navajo tour guide, was impressive! This is the only way to tour these amazing sites.”

-Esdra (Read more reviews)

Sedona Arizona to Antelope Canyon by Car

Getting to Antelope Canyon from Sedona, Az is very easy and the scenic drive from Sedona will take you through some amazing sites such as Slide Rock State Park, Coconino National Forest, and Flagstaff.

You will also pass by Wupatki National Monument and some other notable canyons in the area that you could consider adding to your road trip.

If you are planning to road trip on your own, we recommend that you leave early to ensure that you arrive at Antelope Canyon in time for your tour.

Many people will begin this trip by flying into Phoenix and then road-tripping to Sedona before heading onto Antelope Canyon.

How Far is Sedona from Antelope Canyon?

The Sedona from Antelope Canyon drive will take approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes. The drive from Sedona to Antelope Canyon is around 160 miles via US-89 N/N 89.

This is a relatively short drive that leaves you with a lot of time left in the day. There are also numerous stops that you can make along the way if you start your road trip extra early.

Whether you make frequent stops or just pass by, you will experience beautiful scenic landscapes of Navajo Nation during a lot of the road trip.

Sedona AZ to Antelope Canyon Directions

• From Sedona, head north on 89A until reaching I-17 N
• Turn left to merge onto I-17 N heading toward Flagstaff
• From I-17 N, merge onto I-40 N which will then turn back into 89A after passing through Flagstaff
• Continue on 89A until the road splits, and then continue on road 89 instead of 89A
• Continue on road 89 until you finally arrive at Antelope Canyon

Renting a Car for your Antelope Canyon Sedona Trip

If you don’t have your own car and want to drive to Sedona, it is super easy to rent a car to get there on your own.

We love having our own car and usually always either rent a car for our road trips or even rent an RV and camp at the different campgrounds along the way.

One major benefit is that a rental car will allow you to take full control of where you stop and how long you spend at each stop. For renting a car to drive from Sedona to Antelope Canyon, we recommend using Discover Cars.

We have found that they make renting a car super easy and affordable while also offering lots of options. We really like to use them whenever we rent a car for road trip purposes! 

Is Antelope Canyon a Day Trip from Sedona?

Absolutely! You can take a day trip from Sedona to Antelope Canyon. You can spend your day touring the canyon and surrounding areas in the Navajo Nation or focus on hiking all the different Antelope Canyon trails.

The area also has an incredibly rich Native history and culture that you can learn about during any of the tours of Antelope Canyon from Sedona.

Can you do the Grand Canyon and Antelope Canyon in One Day from Sedona?

Yes, you can travel from Sedona to Antelope Canyon to the Grand Canyon in one day. You will want to take into consideration the driving involved though.

To get from Sedona to the Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, and then back to Sedona again it would be approximately 7 and ½ hours of driving altogether, but it is totally doable and you will get to enjoy all of the scenic views that Arizona has to offer during the drive.

Best Stops on an Antelope Canyon Sedona Road Trip

1. Slide Rock State Park

6 miles north of Sedona in Oak Creek Canyon is Slide Rock State Park, a beautiful swimming hole that has a natural rock slide where you can cool off on a hot summer’s day.

Slide Rock State Park offers a variety of activities and attractions. You can stop for a bite to eat at one of the many picnicking spots or cool off in one of the swimming holes.

You will want to check out one or more of the hiking trails where you can see nature up close and personal. If you plan on making this stop, make sure to bring your camera for all of the photography spots!

2. Coconino National Forest

Located near Flagstaff, the Coconino National Forest is known for its diverse landscapes, including deserts, alpine tundra, ancient volcano peaks, and much more!

Coconino National Forest’s Flagstaff District offers as many activities and attractions as it does landscapes!

You can hang out at one of the picnic areas after hiking one of the many trails. Check out the variety of wilderness areas or get out on the water at the boating and fishing sites. 

If you are feeling less active that day, you could stay in the car for some scenic drives or learn about the forest’s history by visiting the archaeological sites.

3. Flagstaff

Flagstaff, Arizona, is known for its perfect year-round weather which allows for all sorts of seasonal activities for visitors. It also serves as a cultural hub of Northern Arizona.  

Flagstaff offers travelers historical tours and stargazing at the Lowell Observatory. The Museum of Northern Arizona can teach you the history of the area through art and archaeology.

If you have time to spare, make a day of Flagstaff by hiking the impact of the Meteor Crater or riding the Grand Canyon Railway.

4. Wupatki National Monument

The Wupatki National Monument, located in Flagstaff, is home to dozens of preserved ancestral Puebloan villages.

You can gain a ton of insight into the history of the area by participating in one of the Archaeology Month Activities or by exploring the museum collections.

Get outdoors by walking or hiking one of the trails around the villages or go on one of the professional ranger-guided day hikes.

5. The Grand Canyon

One of the most notable national parks, The Grand Canyon is one of the most incredible examples of erosion in the world. Experience this wonder firsthand by walking or hiking the Canyon Rim Trail or the Trail of Time.

The Grand Canyon also has a ton of history to offer through a visit to the Tusayan Pueblo/Museum or a ranger-led hike.

If you are looking for a more unique experience, you can also opt for a Mule Trip or a Raft Trip on the Colorado River. 

6. Horseshoe Bend Overlook

A landmark in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Horseshoe Bend Overlook offers a 1.5-mile hike up to see its renowned view. While this hike is fairly short, you can opt for an off-road guided tour of the area too.

Horseshoe Bend Overlook offers incredible viewpoints of the unique and unforgettable landscape. This is definitely where you will want to capture some photos to take home!

7. Lake Powell

The nation’s second-largest man-made lake, Lake Powell has an array of day activities and picturesque views to offer via the Lake Powell Resort.

If you rather get out on the water, Lake Powell offers kayaking, waterskiing, and wakeboarding in Wahweap Bay. Swimming is also an option if you drive to The Chains.

If you want to take in all of the scenic views, then we recommend looking out at Lake Powell from Mountain Viewpoint or Wahweap Viewpoint.

8. Other Slot Canyons in Arizona

Besides Antelope Canyon, there are a lot of other slot canyons in the area. If you want to view some other slot canyons that see way fewer crowds, check out Antelope Canyon X.

All of these other canyons are very adventurous, so if you’re up for going a bit off the beaten path, we would definitely recommend checking them out.

Sedona to Antelope Canyon Day Trip Itinerary Example

If you’re excited about a road trip from Sedona to Antelope Canyon but aren’t quite sure how the day would work out, we’ve put together an example itinerary.

You can totally change this up to suit your needs/what you want to see or even opt to stay the night near Antelope Canyon in Page, AZ.

• 6:00 AM – Wake up bright and early to start the road trip from Sedona, Arizona, to Antelope Canyon.
• 7:30 AM – Make a pit stop in Flagstaff, Arizona, to check out what the city has to offer and maybe even take a historical tour!
• 10:00 AM – Arrive at Antelope Canyon after a 2 hour and 30-minute drive, and spend 1-2 hours exploring the sandstone cliffs of the canyon via a guided hiking tour.
• 12:00 PM – Take a lunch break to refuel for the remainder of the road trip!
• 1:00 PM – Spend 30 minutes – 1 hour at Horseshoe Bend hiking to the overlook to take in the spectacular views of the Colorado River.
• 3:00 PM – Stop by the historic Cameron Trading Post to explore the area and peruse the art and souvenirs that the native Navajo vendors have to offer.
• 5:00 PM – Drive back towards Sedona and make a stop to spend the second half of the day cooling off in the waters of Slide Rock State Park.

End your day with a quick approximately 15-minute drive back to Sedona from Slide Rock State Park, and relax at your hotel for the remainder of the evening.

The Best Time for an Antelope Canyon to Sedona Trip

The best time to visit Antelope Canyon from Sedona is during the summer while the sun is at its highest. This allows you the best opportunity to see the famous light beams.

However, keep in mind these light beams are viewable only from approximately March 20th – October 20th.

If you prefer to avoid tourist crowds, you may want to consider visiting during early spring or fall. If you go during a colder month like Sedona in November, it is best to layer up your clothes to be prepared for quick weather changes.

Additionally, the best time of the week to visit Antelope Canyon is on a weekday during the morning time. Visiting during the week will help you avoid large crowds, parking difficulties, and sold-out tours during the weekend times. 

Tips for Visiting Antelope Canyon from Sedona

Check out these tips before you go, so you can be prepared for the best road trip and know what to expect when visiting Antelope Canyon. 

• Make your reservation in advance: Most tours sell out quickly and require hotel information in advance if you opt for pickup.
• Plan out your route: You can’t do it all in one day, so pick out your top sites to visit and plan out your route accordingly so as to not waste any of the time on your action-packed day.
• Pack lunch: There are a few places to stop along the way, but it’s the most fun to bring your own lunch and eat it at a lookout picnic spot along the way.
• Arrive early: Beat the midday heat and the crowds by arriving early in the morning.
• Don’t bring backpacks: In order to protect the canyon, bags of any size are not allowed in the canyon
• Pack water: The canyon can get pretty hot, especially if you visit during the peak summer months, so you will want to be prepared to stay hydrated.
• Camera: Be sure to capture all of the stunning views on your camera.
• Sun Protection: Keep your skin protected with sunscreen and a hat too especially while hiking the trails. 
• Proper footwear: Lookout for yourself by wearing shoes that have good grip, traction, and adequate support.
• Waterproof Jacket: Stay dry with a lightweight jacket in case the weather decides to change up on you.

Where to Stay In Sedona

There are a ton of great options for places to stay in Sedona, but we have gathered our absolute favorites below.

Sky Ranch Lodge

⭐️ Rating: 8.9 |📍 Location: Sedona | 🏩 View on Booking.com

Sky Ranch Lodge is praised for its beautifully situated location with scenic views of the city and surrounding landscape. Previous guests have also appreciated how close the lodge is to the Sedona airport.

Sky Ranch Lodge provides concierge services, an outdoor swimming pool, free wifi throughout the property, a bar, a spa, and a garden to enjoy. To top it off, Sky Ranch Lodge features a hot tub and free shuttle service so you can kick back and relax after a long day of hiking the canyons!

“The view was amazing and the best in the area! The beds were so comfortable and the staff was excellent! Truly a treat to stay here.”

-Mary (Read more reviews)

Sedona Real Inn & Suites

⭐️ Rating: 8.8 |📍 Location: Sedona | 🏩 View on Booking.com

Sedona Real Inn & Suites is a pet-friendly inn that is perfectly situated close to everything that Sedona has to offer. Guests specifically praise the friendly staff and the delicious complimentary breakfast!

Upon your stay, Sedona Real Inn & Suites provides an outdoor swimming pool, free wifi, free parking, a fitness center, and spa amenities. You will definitely want to indulge in the spa amenities after touring Antelope Canyon all day!

“Beautiful location. Close to everything – food, activities , shopping. Loved the family and dog park on-site. Super clean and well maintained.”

-Cynthia (Read more reviews)

Where to Stay Near Antelope Canyon

If you plan to spend the night near Antelope Canyon there are a ton of great places to Stay in Page, the closest town to Antelope Canyon. Here are our top two favorite picks:

Hyatt Place Page Lake Powell

⭐️ Rating: 8.8 |📍 Location: Sedona | 🏩 View on Booking.com

Hyatt Place Page Lake Powell is approximately 8.3 miles from Antelope Canyon and 7.5 miles from Lake Powell. This hotel is praised for its amazing location and being a great option for 2 travelers.

Upon your stay, this hotel provides a 24-hour front desk, a fitness center, an on-site restaurant, free parking, and free wifi. There are also a variety of activities that are offered such as horseback riding, canoeing, hiking, fishing, and much more!

“Very pleasant and clean hotel. Fresh, modern and easy to access building. Nice and helpful staff with a warm smile. The bar and food was an extra plus. The size of the room was great and everything was crisp and clean.”

-Gabriella (Read more reviews)

Hampton Inn & Suites Page – Lake Powell

⭐️ Rating: 8.8 |📍 Location: Sedona | 🏩 View on Booking.com

Hampton Inn & Suites Page – Lake Powel is just under 8 miles away from Antelope Canyon. It is also only a 5-minute drive to Horseshoe Bend!

Upon your stay, this inn offers an indoor swimming pool, free parking, free wifi, a fitness center, and a hot tub. Guests specifically praised the cleanliness of all of the facilities and the convenient location!

“Rooms are very spacious and luxurious, amazing beds and a great bathroom space. The pool and jacuzzi were great. Perfect location.”

-Marine (Read more reviews)

Wrap-Up: Sedona to Antelope Canyon 

There are so many ways to enjoy a trip from Sedona to Antelope Canyon. You can opt for a full-day tour with the itinerary planned out for you, so you can just sit back and enjoy all that Arizona has to offer you.

You could also make it your very own road trip where you make all of the decisions and stops that pique your interest. Whichever route you take, there is no doubt that you will have an exciting and unique experience. 

If you are spending extra time in Sedona, and looking for more to do after your day trip to Antelope Canyon, we recommend checking out these 12 incredible must-do Sedona hikes. These hikes range from easy-hard, so there is sure to be a hike that fits your needs!

Hiking isn’t all that the Sedona area has to offer, if you like to camp, there are some incredible Sedona campgrounds as well as some pretty incredible Sedona waterfalls.

Whatever you decide to do, we hope this article helped you plan your trip to Antelope Canyon and you have a lovely time seeing one of the most beautiful slot canyons in the world.