History of Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon is one of the most photographed destinations in the country. It's a sight to behold, and the subject of the world's most expensive photograph. However, even though it’s easily accessible—there are many Antelope canyon tours from Las Vegas—the canyon can also be dangerous because of its flash floods.

History of Antelope Canyon

The history of Antelope Canyon is long and varied. It's believed that this magnificent site was formed by the process of water pouring through sandstone over hundreds of years.

When contemplating what Antelope Canyon is, everyone at least agrees it’s unique. It possesses a rare geological structure in that the entrance is found at the bottom, meaning tourists don't have to climb to experience its beauty. It's located in Page, Arizona, and has two distinct sections—Upper Antelope Canyon, or the crack, and Lower Antelope Canyon, or the corkscrew. Here are a few historical facts about Antelope Canyon:

• The mere act of entering the park is considered a ritual, and the Navajo people pause before entering the canyon to enter with the right state of mind.
• A ceremony takes place every four years to thank the elements for creating such a beautiful masterpiece.
• The canyon was named a protected Navajo Tribal park in 1997.

The tourist destination is especially busy during the spring and summer months as families and individual explorers seek out the breathtaking colors within the canyon walls. Regardless of the time of the year you decide to take your trip to Antelope Canyon, you'll enjoy spectacular views.

In regards to how to visit Antelope Canyon, it is located in the land of the Navajo, who have lived in that area for over a thousand years. Access to the canyons is only allowed if you're in the company of a local guide.

A Photographer’s Dream Destination

There is a wide array of sights at Antelope Canyon, making it a magnet to photographers. If you’re an ardent photographer, you should consider signing up for a specialized photography tour that affords the time to take the perfect shots.

If you're looking for a place to relax as you take in the beautiful landscapes, you can sign up for regular tours, which are less costly–but you may have a harder time taking breathtaking pictures.

The Most Expensive Photo was Taken at Antelope Canyon

Peter Lik is credited with having taken the most expensive photograph in the world at Antelope Canyon. The picture portrays a ghost-like beam of light from the top of the canyon reaching down to the canyon floor. The photograph was purchased for a whopping $6.5 million.

It's as Equally Dangerous as It Is Beautiful

It's easy to forget the wrath of mother nature, especially when taking in this beautiful geological creation. In 1997, Antelope Canyon claimed the lives of eleven people when flash floods surrounded them as they toured the lower canyon. Some of the bodies were found in the canyon, while others were washed out into the valley. Only the tour guide survived, but with serious injuries.

Antelope Canyon is one of the most spectacular tourist destinations in the world. You should consider visiting—especially when the canyon is less crowded—and sign up for a photo tour if you're an avid photographer.