Is It Cold Inside Lower Antelope Canyon?

Thinking of embarking on a journey through the magnificent Lower Antelope Canyon? Before you go, you might be wondering if it's cold inside. After all, nobody likes shivering through a tour when they're supposed to be enjoying the stunning scenery. 

So, let's answer the question: is it cold inside Lower Antelope Canyon? 

Short Answer: During the winter months, it gets very cold inside Lower Antelope Canyon, while the remainder of the year sees mild to hot conditions. During the warmer months, the canyon's interior tends to be around 8 degrees cooler than its exterior.

Long answer: The truth is that the temperature and weather at Antelope Canyon can vary a lot. It's not just the time of year that matters, but also where exactly you are — inside the canyon or out. Even then, the temperatures inside Lower Antelope Canyon are somewhat unpredictable.

Fluctuating Temperatures at Lower Antelope Canyon

Lower Antelope Canyon is located in Page, Arizona, which is part of the American Southwest. If you're from this region, you know that the temperature can vary wildly depending on the season and even the time of day itself. It can go from scorching hot during the daytime to shockingly chilly at night. 

At the end of the day, Antelope Canyon is subject to the whims of Mother Nature. If there's a particularly strong wind blowing, it might create a draft inside the canyon, making it feel colder in an instant, even during summer. 

So, while there are general rules of thumb about the temperature inside the canyon, it's always worth checking the weather forecast before you go and dressing appropriately.

Summer at Lower Antelope Canyon

Summer is peak season at Antelope Canyon — book your Antelope Canyon tour in advance! This popularity is in spite of summer having the harshest, hottest weather. 

In July, the average high temperature is 93°F (34°C) and the average low is 73°F (23°C). Needless to say, Lower Antelope Canyon is not cold during the summer! 

If you're visiting Antelope Canyon during the summer months, you'll likely experience sweltering heat during the day. Once you enter the canyon, you might feel a welcome coolness. It still won't be cold, though, especially with lots of people packed inside the canyon.

Another thing to keep in mind is that, when visiting Lower Antelope Canyon, you sometimes have to wait outside in the sun for a while before going in. Wear sunscreen and bring a hat!

Pro Tip: If you want to avoid the heat as much as possible, try to book a tour for the early morning. Lower Antelope Canyon is a bit cooler at this time.

Winter at Lower Antelope Canyon

But what about during the winter months? It's true that the American Southwest can get cold during the winter, especially at night. 

In fact, the temperature at Antelope Canyon can drop below freezing. This is the case in December and January, the two coldest months of the year. The average low temperature during these months is 29°F (-2°C). Wind can make it feel even colder.

Antelope Canyon is a slot canyon, which means it's narrow and deep. Lower Antelope Canyon is even narrower and deeper than the other section, Upper Antelope Canyon. This means that the sun's rays don't penetrate as deeply into the canyon, which results in an even chillier environment. 

Definitely dress warmly and wear shoes fit for walking on snow. Snow is uncommon at Antelope Canyon but it does happen. It's best to wear layers, though, since the crowd inside the compact canyon may generate some heat.

Spring and Fall at Antelope Canyon

Spring and fall obviously have milder weather than summer and winter, but the temperatures change very quickly throughout each season. Here's a quick rundown on the temperatures in spring:

• In March, the average high is 60°F (15°C) and the average low is 40°F (6°C)
• In April, the average high is 67°F (19°C) and the average low is 46°F (7°C)
• In May, the average high is 76°F (24°C) and the average low is 54°F (12°C)

For warm weather, while still avoiding the crowds, consider visiting in early May. This is also around the start of when light beams become more common.

These are the average temperatures during the fall months:

• In September, the average high is 83°F (28°C) and the average low is 63°F (17°C)
• In October, the average high is 68°F (20°C) and the average low is 49°F (10°C)
• In November, the average high is 56°F (13°C) and the average low is 37°F (3°C)

The shift throughout fall is even more drastic than in spring! September is still plenty hot, while November approaches sub-zero temperatures. The crowds begin to taper off as well, but so does the likelihood of seeing light beams.

What to Wear to Lower Antelope Canyon

As already discussed, the temperature inside the canyon can differ depending on a variety of factors. One we haven't touched on yet is how tours of Lower Antelope Canyon are conducted.

The only way to explore Antelope Canyon is with a guided tour that moves on a schedule. You'll be journeying through the canyon at a relatively quick pace. This means you'll generate some body heat, which can make you feel warmer than you might expect. 

Many tours take place during the middle of the day when the sun is at its highest point in the sky. This means that the sun's rays will be shining directly into the canyon, which can warm up the environment. As mentioned earlier, this isn't as common in Lower Antelope Canyon as in Upper Antelope Canyon, but it still happens and the effects can be felt.

It's always a good idea to bring layers, regardless of the season. Even if it's hot outside, you might appreciate having a light jacket or sweater inside the canyon. Then again, when it's cold outside, the canyon might feel warmer in comparison!

Additionally, wearing comfortable shoes with good traction is essential. The canyon floor can be uneven and slippery in some areas.

The Bottom Line

The million-dollar question: is it cold inside Lower Antelope Canyon? As you've seen, the answer isn't totally straightforward.

Summer definitely isn't cold, though inside the canyon will feel cooler than outside. On the other hand, winter temperatures can reach below freezing. However, once you're inside the canyon, the temperatures could be milder.

If you come prepared with layers and comfortable shoes, you should be able to enjoy the tour regardless of the temperature. 

So, go forth and explore Lower Antelope Canyon. Just make sure you bring a sense of adventure and an appreciation for the incredible power of nature. It's also worth bringing the knowledge of the best time of day to visit Lower Antelope Canyon.