A Hike Through These 7 Slot Canyons In Arizona Will Feel Like You’re Discovering A New World

Arizona is the land of canyons so it’s only natural that we think our state has some of the best examples! Today, we’re going to focus on slot canyons, which are narrow, often very deep canyons formed by water rushing through rock. You might have a difficult time spotting these from above, as they usually only have an upper opening of several inches but they can be found in most areas of the state.

Keep in mind that due to the danger of flash floods, visiting these slot canyons requires a permit, an awareness of the weather, and often an experienced tour guide. We will make a note if a tour guide is required for each of these places.

Please note, Canyon X and Secret Canyon are temporarily closed.

Moyan Brenn/Flickr

Starting with arguably the most popular slot canyon, Antelope Canyon is actually divided into two: Upper and Lower. Both areas feature the gorgeous curvy walls that beckon visitors from all over the world but you’ll find the tourist traffic significantly less in Lower Antelope Canyon.

Trail information: Access to the canyons is restricted to guided tours only.

Tracey Harrison-Hill/Flickr

Located a relatively short distance from Antelope Canyon, this one is a bit smaller and visited far less often than Antelope Canyon, making a visit here even more special. You’ll love getting what feels like a personalized tour of the slot canyon, as well as watching the light filter through the top opening and changing throughout the day.

Trail information: Trail information: Access to the canyon is restricted to guided tours only through Taadidiin Tours.

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Zachary Collier/Flickr

The narrows here are pretty short—less than one-quarter of a mile—but it’s a beautiful sight inside one of the most famous canyons in the world. It does require climbing and rappelling, so make sure you or your hiking partners are experienced in canyoneering.

Trail information: Link

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Len Hardy/Flickr

Tall, remote, and quiet. What more could you ask for in a hiking expedition? Paria Canyon follows the Paria River from the Colorado River. The beginning of the canyon is pretty wide but it progressively becomes narrower as it reaches Buckskin Gulch at the Arizona-Utah border.

Trail information: Link

Alan English CPA/Flickr

Be prepared to use climbing equipment to make it into the canyon’s depths here. You’ll find cliffs, pools, and very narrow areas for hiking. Aside from that, it is one pretty area that will shake up your typical Sedona hike.

Trail information: Link

Chris Colhoun/Flickr

There’s another canyon by the same name in the Sedona area but that’s not the one we’re talking about today. This Secret Canyon exists in the same general area as Antelope Canyon and Canyon X but, per its name, it sees fewer visitors and is gorgeous! You’ll see some similar views as you would at Antelope Canyon, but you’ll know that you’re one of few who’ve explored this place.

Trail information: Access to the canyon is restricted to guided tours only through Slot Canyon Hummer Adventures.

Jeff Few/Flickr

In case you haven’t noticed, this area of Arizona is perfect for finding slot canyons! This one is also less popular than Antelope Canyon but also longer so it is definitely worth the effort to find.

Trail information: Access to the canyon is located on the Navajo Nation and will require a permit prior to access. This information can be found throughNavajo Nation Parks and Recreation.

Those places are absolutely gorgeous and hopefully you get a chance to visit a few of them. However, if you’re unsure about hiking these, you can also take a peek at a few other canyons we recommend in 15 Underrated Canyons In Arizona That Will Take Your Breath Away.