Slot Canyon (Permit / Guide)

Waterholes Canyon: A Tranquil Navajo Slot Canyon

Explore Waterholes Canyon's slender walls and shaded light, a quieter alternative to busier canyons, with a Navajo guide and permit in hand.

What Visitors Should Know

  • Permit requirement A permit is typically required; verify with Navajo Nation authorities.
  • Guided visits Most visits are arranged with a Navajo guide; confirm through official channels.
  • Seasonal access Availability can vary; verify with official sources.
  • What to bring Sturdy shoes, water, and layers; follow guide instructions.
  • Respect & safety Follow local rules and guidance from your guide.

Waterholes Canyon sits along US-89 just south of Page, not far from Lake Powell. It is a narrow, sculpted slot canyon whose walls catch flashes of light in places. Access is managed by the Navajo Nation and typically requires a permit and a Navajo guide. Many visitors come here seeking a quieter alternative to the more crowded canyons nearby.

Getting There

Access is coordinated through a Navajo Nation permit and a licensed guide.

Guided trips commonly depart from the Page area, with details and scheduling handled by the guiding parties and the Navajo Nation.

What to Expect

The canyon narrows to a shaded corridor with smooth, sculpted walls.

Expect a short, easy hike with occasional low passages and light reflections that shift with the sun.

Practical Tips

Plan ahead for permits and guide arrangements; check official sources.

Bring water, wear sturdy shoes, and respect Navajo Nation rules.

Waterholes Canyon: At a Glance

Season

Year-round

Access

Navajo permit; guided from Page.

Cost

Permits/fees may apply; verify.

Good for

Canyon lovers seeking shade and quiet.

Planning Tips — Before You Go

Permits & Guides

Confirm permit requirements and guide availability through official sources before planning.

What to Bring

Pack water, sun protection, and a camera with care; follow Leave-No-Trace guidelines.

Best Time to Go

Light and crowds vary; check with official sources or guides for current conditions.

Photography Etiquette

Capture without blocking routes and respect restricted areas; listen to guides.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Navajo Nation permit for Waterholes Canyon? +
Permits are typically required; verify with Navajo Nation authorities.
Are tours available from Page? +
Yes, guided visits are commonly arranged through Navajo guides; verify with official sources.
Is Waterholes Canyon like Antelope Canyon? +
It offers a quieter alternative with its own character; check official sources for current conditions.
What should I wear or bring? +
Sturdy shoes and layers are sensible; check with guides for accessibility and conditions.
How long does a visit take? +
Visit lengths vary; confirm with the guiding operator and Navajo Nation rules.

Continue Planning Your Lake Powell Trip

All Lake Powell Tours →

Rainbow Bridge boat tours, Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend guides, and more.

Day Trips →

Grand Canyon, Sedona, and other drives from the Page area.

Lake Powell Overview →

Houseboat rentals, marina access, and the full area planning guide.

Some links are affiliate links — we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Full disclosure. Details such as prices, hours, and permit rules change — always verify with official sources before you go.