Unlocking the mystery: 8 Facts about Antelope Canyon you probably didn’t know

Facts

Antelope Canyon is best known for its stunning light beams, but there’s much more to this natural wonder than meets the eye. From its formation over millions of years to its cultural significance for the Navajo people, this slot canyon is full of surprises. Here are some facts that will give you a deeper understanding of what makes Antelope Canyon so unique.

Facts about Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon wide angle view at sunset, Lake Powell, Arizona.

1. The story behind its name

The Navajo name for the canyon is Tsé bighánílíní, translating to “the place where water runs through rocks,” which is how the Canyon was formed. Its English name comes from Navajo stories that state that the Pronghorn Antelopes used to roam in the canyons during winter.

Antelope Canyon's ancient sandstone formations in Arizona.

2. The rocks are as old as dinosaurs

Antelope Canyon is made of Navajo Sandstone which is a sedimentary rock formation that dates back to the Jurassic period, approximately 190 million years ago.

Group of tourists exploring the Lower Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend during a day tour from Las Vegas, including a lunch break

3. The secret ingredient behind the hues

The vibrant red, orange, and pink hues of the walls of the Antelope Canyon are created by the oxidation of iron-bearing minerals in the sandstone. This, combined with the intricate textures caused by erosion due to flash floods and the interplay of light throughout the day, creates an ever-changing spectrum of colors.

Gila lizards basking on rocky terrain in Arizona desert.

4. The surprising variety of wildlife

If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to spot Gila lizards hidden in the many layers of the Canyon, a snake (most species are non-venomous), and see birds such as bluebirds, cardinals, ravens, and owls flying across the sky on your tour!

Upper Antelope Canyon's narrow sandstone walls with light beams in Page, Arizona.

5. Its mysterious sounds and winds

You can hear a humming sound when wind flows through the Canyon’s narrow passages, making it seem like the Canyon itself is singing. The deeper you go, the more distinct the “whistling” gets. And if you stand in the right spot, some guides claim there’s even a mini vortex that creates a swirling effect in the air around you, adding another layer of mystery.

Antelope Canyon sandstone formations, Page, Arizona.

6. Too precious to touch

The sandstone at Antelope Canyon is prone to damage even with the slightest touch, so visitors are asked to refrain from touching the walls. The moisture and oils from human skin can accelerate the erosion process. The Canyon holds spiritual significance for the Navajo tribe and respecting this rule also honors the sacred nature of the site.

Narrow pathway through Upper Antelope Canyon with sunlight illuminating sandstone walls.

7. The multi-million dollar photograph

Phantom, a photograph by Peter Lik was taken inside Upper Antelope Canyon. It was reported to have sold for $6.5 million to an anonymous buyer, making it the third most expensive photograph ever sold. However, there is a lot of skepticism surrounding the truth behind this sale since there are no official records of it.

Visitor exploring the narrow sandstone formations of Antelope Canyon X, Arizona.

8. Open to the public, but under one condition

Antelope Canyon was opened to public tours fairly recently, in 1983, by the Pearl Begay Family. Today, the canyon is only accessible when accompanied by a Navajo guide.

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