How many of you people advising skipping Antelope canyon have actually done it?

Just returned from there - have now been to that area twice in recent years -to all the places you are suggesting and Antelope canyon is the most incredible place. The parks are great and I totally agree with skipping Vegas to maximize time at other places but Antelope canyon is one of the few really completely five star experiences.

But you need reservations - make them on line with antelope canyon Navaho tours - no credit card needed to reserve, just name and email.

>>How many of you people advising skipping Antelope canyon have actually done it?<<

I think most of us most likely. The issue isn't whether AC is wonderful or not. This OP simply doesn't have enough time.

What janisj said is so true and with a large group, some kids, and a tight schedule, the time would be so much better spent in other parks. I would expect that the kids would not want to just stay with the guide and not be able to explore on their own. Other people would want to take photos and if it is not sunny, the wonder of it is not as spectacular. There are other slots in the area too.

I recommend Antelope - you are literally driving right by it. It's also not a bad idea to take an hour long break in the midst of the drive that day to stop and enjoy something you won't see anywhere else. As a fellow East Coaster I will say that all of the scenery is amazing and so different that for the most part your kids will be enthralled - but for our 12 and 13 year olds they still go back and look at the AC photos a year later.

Make the memories (and a reservation lol).

>>I recommend Antelope - you are literally driving right by it. It's also not a bad idea to take an hour long break in the midst of the drive that day to stop and enjoy something you won't see anywhere else.<<

But they'd need to wait for a tour at the entrance. That 'hour long break' could easily stretch to several hours -- especially since there are a party of 8.

I think we all agree that this part of the country has some magnificent scenery.

Yes AC is a lovely place, stunning in fact especially when the lighting and conditions (incl crowd) are right, and yes, their schedule is tight so they can't do everything.

I think we've given ssutela enough info (opinions) to decide for themselves. There is no right or wrong answer here.

<i>But they'd need to wait for a tour at the entrance. That 'hour long break' could easily stretch to several hours -- especially since there are a party of 8.</i>

You are so hung up on the problems of herding a party of 8 that you disregard the poster's recommendation of <b>having a reservation</b>, which means that the "hour long break" (more like two hours) will not stretch out to infinity.

I think there is certainly enough time in the schedule for the 2 hours it would take to see Antelope Canyon. Two hours less in one of the other parks will not make that much difference. And of course there is lots of time in Vegas that could be cut. Original post says 3 nights, that could easily be reduced to two and still give a 'taste' of Vegas.

The route from GC south rim to Bryce goes right by Antelope Canyon - literally about 4 minutes off the main road. The total drive is about 5 hours and Antelope Canyon is just about at the half way point. Lots of lunch options (either before or after the canyon depending on the timing).

Including checking in and the ride to the canyon (in the jeeps) from the parking area on Rt 98, it takes less than 2 hours.

But especially for mid day, reservations are really needed or you may not get in at all. You only need a name and email address, don't even to give a Credit card number. So if you change your mind you can just not show up (although it would be nice if you went on line and cancelled) http://navajotours.com/

Show the group photos of GC, Bryce, Zion and Antelope Canyon and let them decide if it's worth the two hours.

"janisj on Mar 28, 16 at 1:47am
>>How many of you people advising skipping Antelope canyon have actually done it?<<

I think most of us most likely. The issue isn't whether AC is wonderful or not. This OP simply doesn't have enough time."



Janisj is hitting the nail on the head here. Advising to skip Antelope canyon in this instance doesn't mean it isn't fantastic or beautiful. It means the poster has limited time. I (as well as the others I am sure) have been to all the spots and it is my advice - that given the time frame - you skip Antelope this time around. No one can see everything on every trip. It will be there for you next time.