Antelope Canyon by Jet Ski

Most people see Antelope Canyon on foot, with a Navajo guide, in the famous slot canyons south of Page. Fewer know there is a second Antelope Canyon you can explore from the water: the flooded lower end of the canyon, where it meets Lake Powell. On a jet ski it is one of the best short rides on the lake.

Where the Water Section of Antelope Canyon Is

Antelope Canyon opens onto Lake Powell just up-lake from Antelope Point Marina, a few miles northeast of Page, Arizona. From the marina it is a couple of miles to the end of the water inside the canyon, depending on the lake level, so it makes an easy first stop on a day of riding. From Wahweap it is a slightly longer ride along the main channel.

The water section ends in a sandy wash. The narrow, light-filled slots you see in photos (Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon) are farther up the wash on Navajo Nation land, and those are visited only with a Navajo guide.

What the Ride Is Like

Once you pass the buoys at the mouth, Antelope Canyon is a posted wakeless zone, so you idle in at 5 mph or less. That is the best part: the engine noise drops, the sandstone walls climb higher with every turn, and the canyon narrows until the water runs out. Kayakers and paddleboarders share the canyon, so keep right, pass slowly and give them room. Want to paddle it yourself? See kayaking Antelope Canyon.

• Time to allow: plan on about an hour from Antelope Point, round trip, with stops for photos.
• Best time of day: early morning. The water is calmer, there are fewer boats, and the light on the walls is soft.
• Turnaround: idle slowly where the canyon narrows and turn around before the water gets shallow.

Make It a Half Day

Antelope Canyon pairs well with other south-lake stops. Ride on to the sandy coves of Navajo Canyon, look up at Glen Canyon Dam from the water, or head across to Lone Rock Beach for a swim. For a full day, continue up-lake to Padre Bay. See our Lake Powell jet ski routes for ideas.

Tips for Antelope Canyon by Water

• Bring drinking water, sunscreen and a hat. The canyon is sheltered but hot in summer.
• Keep your phone in a dry bag or waterproof case for photos.
• Stay with your group and keep the speed down in the canyon, even when it looks empty.
• Everyone on a jet ski wears a life jacket the whole time.

Rent a Jet Ski for Antelope Canyon

Our Sea-Doo jet ski rentals are ready at the marina, with life jackets for every rider and a quick walk-through before you head out. The easy-riding GTI 130 Pro is perfect for Antelope Canyon, and a local guide can lead the way if you want the inside tips.