What Do You Wear to Antelope Canyon in the Summer?
Planning a summer trip to Antelope Canyon? You're in for a treat! This mesmerizing slot canyon in Arizona is a photographer's paradise, and summer is the best time to see the canyon's famed light beams. But with the summer heat and the unique environment of the canyon, you might be wondering, "What do I wear to Antelope Canyon in the summer?"
Dressing appropriately will ensure you enjoy your visit comfortably and safely. In this blog post, we'll guide you through the ideal attire for a summer trip to Antelope Canyon, especially if you're considering a tour like the one offered by MaxTour from Las Vegas.
What to Wear in Antelope Canyon in the Summer
Lightweight, Breathable Clothing
The key is to wear lightweight, breathable clothing. Temperatures in Antelope Canyon can soar during the summer months, so it's essential to choose fabrics that allow your body to stay cool.
Materials like cotton, linen, or moisture-wicking fabrics are great choices. Also, opt for light colors that reflect rather than absorb the sun's rays.
Comfortable Footwear
Appropriate footwear is crucial as you'll be walking on sandy and uneven surfaces. Closed-toe, comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots are recommended. They provide protection against the hot sand and any rough terrain.
Avoid sandals or open-toe shoes, as they offer little protection and sand can easily get inside them.
Hat and Sunglasses
Protect your head and eyes from the intense sun. A wide-brimmed hat can provide shade and keep you cool, while sunglasses will protect your eyes from the glare of the sun, especially when it reflects off the canyon walls.
Light Jacket or Windbreaker
While this may seem counterintuitive in the summer, a light jacket or windbreaker can be useful. The temperature inside the canyon can be cooler than outside, and a light layer can provide comfort, especially if you're sensitive to changes in temperature.
Other Must-Haves for Summer in Antelope Canyon
Sun Protection
Sunscreen is a must. Apply a high-SPF sunscreen before your tour and bring it with you for reapplication, especially if you're on a longer tour. The sun can be quite intense in the canyon, and it's easy to get sunburned without realizing it.
Water Bottle
Bring a water bottle, preferably a reusable one, to stay hydrated. Tours like MaxTour's often provide water, but it's always good to have extra, especially in the dry, hot conditions of the Arizona desert.
Camera and Camera Gear
Photography is the highlight of every Antelope Canyon tour, including the Antelope Canyon Tour from Las Vegas offered by MaxTour. Make sure your camera gear is prepared for the desert conditions, but you most likely can't carry a camera bag. Why? Well…
"Can't-Have": Backpacks in Antelope Canyon
Though you might want to bring a small backpack for your essentials, backpacks are almost universally not allowed in Antelope Canyon. They're not allowed at all in Lower Antelope Canyon and are only allowed by some tour operators in Upper Antelope Canyon.
You can have your phone, camera, water bottle, and whatever else you can carry in your hands, but be prepared to leave the rest in your car or tour bus. To be sure, check with your tour operator first to find out if you can carry a bag into the canyon.
What Is Summer Like at Antelope Canyon?
Temperature
In summer at Antelope Canyon, temperatures range from an average low of 71°F (22°C) to an average high of 93°F (34°C). The hottest month is, of course, July, with the temperatures tapering out every so slightly in June and August.
Rainfall
June is the month with the least rainfall in the Antelope Canyon area. However, the chance of rain spikes throughout July and into August — the rainiest month. It's still a low chance of rain (August has an average of 5 days of rain) but it can cause afternoon thunderstorms. It's important to keep this in mind when deciding what to wear to Antelope Canyon in the summer.
Best Month to Visit
Overall, the best summer month to visit is June, for slightly lower temperatures and a virtually nonexistent chance of rain. August is the worst summer month, as rain brings the risk of your tour being canceled.
Antelope Canyon Tips
Respect the Environment
Antelope Canyon is a sacred site to the Navajo people. Dress respectfully and follow all guidelines provided by your tour guide. MaxTour ensures that their tours are not only enjoyable but also respectful of the local culture and environment.
Book Your Tour in Advance
Summer is peak season at Antelope Canyon. Don't wait too long to book your tour, or tickets may very well be sold out. Booking your tour in advance also often lets you get better deals and have more flexibility in choosing the type of tour and time of day you want.
Related Reading: What's the Cheapest Way to Visit Antelope Canyon?
Know Which Section(s) You Want to Visit
Antelope Canyon has two main sections: Upper Antelope Canyon and Lower Antelope Canyon. Each has its own charm. Upper Antelope Canyon is famed for its light beams while Lower Antelope Canyon is known for its mesmerizing rock formations. Perhaps you just want to visit one or, if you plan your day right, you can even visit both in one day.
There are also a few other, lesser-known options for Antelope Canyon tours, including Canyon X, Cardiac Canyon, and Mountain Sheep Canyon. Check out our post on which Antelope Canyon tour is the easiest for a run-down on your options.
Conclusion
Visiting Antelope Canyon in the summer is an unforgettable experience. Dressing appropriately for the weather and terrain will ensure that your visit is as comfortable as it is memorable. Lightweight clothing, sun protection, comfortable shoes, and staying hydrated are key.
It's also important to know what you're up against when visiting Antelope Canyon in the summer. The heat is intense and the chance of rain goes up as the season goes on. Also, summer is the most popular season to visit, so you'll have to book in advance to secure your tickets.
If you're looking for a hassle-free way to experience Antelope Canyon along with other stunning locations, consider joining a tour like MaxTour's from Las Vegas. It's a fantastic way to explore the beauty of the Southwest with the convenience of an organized tour. Happy exploring!
Related Reading: Antelope Canyon Visitor Center
