I created this guitar piece as an accompaniment to my hike up the Spencer Trail in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. This steep 2.2-mile climb rewards you with spectacular views of Grand Canyon National Park, Marble Canyon, the Vermilion Cliffs, and Lees Ferry. Just as impressive as the scenery is the trail’s incredible Old West history; an improbable route born from gold-rush ambition.
It’s a story of boom and bust, grit and scheming. As you hike, it’s hard to imagine wagons and mule teams being driven up this treacherous slope and descending with loads of coal, all in the hope of striking it rich.
Dog Friendly: Yes – Leash and Off-Leash once clear of Horseshoe Bend Area
Park Pass/Permit Required: No
Directions to the Horseshoe Bend ~ 9 Mile Draw Hike Trailhead
Park at a dirt pullout for a dirt road at mile marker 545.75 in between the electric transformers that go over the road. This dirt road requires a 4 wheel drive. The pull out is just a short distance south of the Page welcome sign and the junction of Highway 98 and 89. If you have a 4×4 you can zig zag your way to 9 mile draw where the road ends and this will cut off about 1.5 miles from the total hike.
Description ~ Horseshoe Bend ~ 9 Mile Draw Loop Hike
Horseshoe Bend is one of the most popular hikes in the Grand Circle and one of the most iconic features carved by the Colorado River. This 4-mile off-trail loop, located just two miles south of Page, Arizona, leads you to Horseshoe Bend from a much quieter approach before contouring the rim of mighty Glen Canyon and the Colorado River. From there, the route turns toward 9 Mile Draw, where you can drop into the shaded narrows and explore until the canyon ends at a steep pour-off.
You’ll finish the loop by crossing rolling sand dunes and otherworldly rock formations reminiscent of The Wave. The hike is rated moderate, with stretches of soft sand and sections of crumbly slickrock domes and cuts. Use extreme caution near the cliff edges, this rock is very soft, and some overhangs can break under body weight. Unfortunately, accidents do occur here every year.
Route-finding is the crux of this hike, especially for those unfamiliar with navigating off-trail, so bring a map or a GPS-enabled phone to help guide your way back. Summer temperatures can be intense, and the only real shade is inside 9 Mile Draw. There are no water sources on this route, so carry more water than you think you’ll need.
Turn north off of Highway 98 onto N22B, following signs to Antelope Point Launch Ramp. The main parking area is 5.3 miles from the turn off and is located just above the ramp on your left. There is another parking area to the right of the launch ramp that will allow for access to the eastern shoreline of the point.
Antelope Canyon Rim Walk Description
The Antelope Canyon Rim Walk is a relatively flat, 1-3 mile out-and-back hike along the canyon’s rim. Park at the south end of the Antelope Point Launch Ramp and walk parallel to Highway N22B on flat, gravelly ground until you reach the canyon.
The river rocks along the way are beautifully weathered to a shiny finish. You can walk along the edge of the canyon as long as you like or until you reach the barbed wire fence marking the Navajo Indian Reservation. Enjoy the dramatic curves of the canyon as it leads to the famous slot canyons. From your vantage point, watch kayakers glide by on the emerald waters of Lake Powell.
Be very cautious near the canyon edges! The rock is soft and overhanging edges can easily give way. The rounded slickrock can be slippery, making it easy to lose your footing. With proper care, this can be a safe and enjoyable moderate outing.
Type of Hike : Out & Back if going only to the White Stripe ~ Loop if you do the mesa
Length: ~ 2 wheel drive parking to the White Stripe = .35 miles one way (.7 round trip)
~ 2 Wheel Drive Parking mesa loop hike = 1.6 miles total car to car.
~ 4×4 Parking to the White Stripe only = .25 total
~ 4×4 Parking mesa loop hike = 1 mile
Difficulty: White Stripe only = Easy ~ White Stripe Mesa Loop – Easy/Moderate
Terrain: Deep Sand, Slick Rock. If you do the loop it requires steep slick rock walking
Elevation Gain: 100
Dog Friendly: Yes
Park Pass/Permit Required: No
Directions to the Trailhead
The White Stripe Mesa is located south of Highway 98 within the city limits of Page Arizona. This mesa is bordered on it’s south eastern flank by Page Steel and is private property. The White Stripe Cavern can be found within the largest in-cut cleft on the western side of the mesa.
!CAUTION! The vast majority of the road shoulder on Highway 98 is extremely soft sand and a 2WD vehicle will get stuck. There is a paved pull out at mile marker 296.5 on the north side of the road that is the best option for parking.
If you have a 4×4 vehicle there are a couple of two track roads off of Highway 98 at mile marker 296.3 to 296.7 that will get you to the base of the mesa.
The White Stripe Mesa Hiking Description ~ Page Arizona
The White Stripe is an elegant, wind-sculpted cavern that looks as if it were painted by Pablo Picasso himself. This hidden geologic wonder lies tucked within a mesa at the southern edge of Page, Arizona, just minutes from world-famous landmarks like Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.
Encircling nearly the entire mesa, the White Stripe was formed through a rare natural process: slightly acidic water dissolved the pink iron coating within the sandstone, leaving behind a brilliant band of color that stretches almost 360°around the circumference of the mesa.
The mesa holds more treasures beyond the White Stripe. At its crown, you’ll find the Echo Eye, a small arch perfectly framing the Echo Peaks and Vermilion Cliffs. Several other smaller arches adorn the rim, while at the southern tip lies the Ripples, a wave-like expanse of striated sandstone.
Wildlife is just as much a part of this landscape as the stone itself. Gray and red foxes roam the mesa, while Great Horned Owls lurk in the caves and Peregrine Falcons patrol the skies above. Adding a striking contrast to the natural beauty, the rusted metal rows of steel sit neatly organized at its eastern edge, creating a scene with a unique high-dynamic range of textures and perspectives.
This hike can be approached in two ways
Two Wheel Drive ~ Park on highway 98 and walk .3 miles to the mesa/cavern through soft sand. There are a couple of two track roads that lead to the base of the mesa where the White Stripe Cavern is housed in a deep cleft in the mesa wall. Be very cautious about where you park along the highway because most of the shoulder is composed of extremely soft sand and you will definitely get stuck. There is a nice paved pull out at mile post 296.5 that is the best place to start your hike.
Four Wheel Drive ~ There are a couple of dirt roads that head south off of 98 and make there way to the base of the mesa. After visiting the White Stripe Area there are a plethora of other roads that criss cross the area and are blast to explore. Big Five Slot Canyon is just a short drive away and is well worth a visit.
Getting to the Top of the Mesa
There are two main routes that will get you to the top of this mesa.
The first is a set of Moqui Steps carved directly into the sandstone. You’ll find them on the northwest wall of the White Stripe Cavern, right at its mouth. If you watched the YouTube video above, that’s me climbing this section. It’s steep and can feel a little intimidating if you’re not used to the slick sandstone or if heights aren’t your thing, but to put it in perspective, my dog handles it both up and down without any trouble.
If the Moqui Steps aren’t for you, don’t worry, there’s a second option. Just around the corner from the cavern, heading south, is an easier way up. It’s still somewhat steep, but if you follow the natural ledges and contour the slickrock from right to left, the ascent feels pretty casual. It’s secure, straightforward, and far less committing.
Arrival Time: Arrive 30 minutes prior to your leave time so that you can fill out the waiver.
Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: Sand Hills, Narrow Sandstone Slot Canyons, Steep Stair Steps, Optional: Via Ferrata rungs and ropes to a small portion of the canyon
Elevation Gain: 200 feet
Dog Friendly: No
Park Pass/Permit Required: No
Time Zones: Daylight Savings Time this year is from March 9 at 2 AM to Sunday, November 2 – At this time the Navajo Reservation and Utah are one hour ahead of Arizona. Your phone might bounce back and forth in this area, making it very confusing. It is advisable to lock your phone’s time zone in your settings to avoid this issue.
Tripods: ARE ALLOWED!!!
Directions to the Trailhead
This hike is located on the Navajo Reservation 12 miles southeast of Page Arizona at Mile Post 307.9 on Highway 98.
Cardiac Canyon Hike Description
This hiking tour has spice! An under-the-radar adventure that has it all, Cardiac Canyon is one of the best destinations the Page, Arizona area has to offer. Your journey begins at the Taadidiin Tours lot, where you’ll meet your guide and set off on a rugged 7-mile 4×4 drive. This road circumnavigates the canyon rim before dropping you at the trailhead. There are restroom facilities here, but the real thrill begins just beyond. From the surface, it’s hard to imagine that a 200-foot-deep canyon of spectacular beauty lies hidden beneath the desert landscape. A short walk brings you to the canyon’s edge, where expertly crafted stairs and handrails provide safe passage into its depths.
The descent is unforgettable. Instantly, you’re engulfed by walls of Navajo sandstone sculpted into flowing textures that seem alive with motion. Light and shadow dance together in shifting patterns as you move deeper inside. The canyon doesn’t just surround you—it requires you to engage with it, your body weaving, ducking, and stepping through narrow corridors as if in rhythm with the rock itself.
This hike is rated Moderate. Expect physically demanding terrain, elevation changes, and sections that require agility and stamina. It’s an endeavor best suited for the fit and adventurous, promising a payoff of unrivaled beauty and solitude.
One of the highlights of this tour is that Taadidiin Tours welcomes photographers to bring tripods, a rare privilege since most slot canyon tours do not allow them. For photographers, this makes Cardiac Canyon an absolute gem. Combine that freedom with the canyon’s breathtaking scenery, truly among the most spectacular landscapes on earth, and you have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to capture its beauty without compromise.
If this hike seems like it’s beyond your skill level Taadidiin Tours offers an easier and shorter tour through Canyon X that is absolutely stupendous.
Cardiac Canyon Hiking Information
Minimum 2 participants required. Solo travelers may book if the minimum is met for that date; pairing options may be available—contact reservations.
Not suitable for those with limited mobility. Physically demanding terrain throughout.
Tours may be canceled due to unsafe weather conditions.Operates on Arizona time (Mountain Standard, Phoenix)) and do not observe Daylight Savings Time. We are the same time as Flagstaff, Sedona, Phoenix, Page, AZ.
Does not offer tours to Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon.
Same day inquiries are accepted as walk-in only based on availability. First tour departs at 9:00 am.
A phone call to make a reservation is not accepted.
Pregnant women are strongly discouraged from participating due to areas that could be strenuous on the tour.
All customers must be able to walk unassisted on uneven surfaces and elevation changes i.e., steep incline/decline. A walking stick can be used if necessary.
There are NO ladders involved in this tour.
Young children are allowed.
Photographs or video taken for commercial use are prohibited.
Customers must abide by all instructions given by employees of Antelope Canyon X
Dates are released per quarter.
Q1 (Jan. – Mar.) is made available Dec. 1.
Q2 (April – June) will be released January 1.
Q3 (July – Sept.) will be released April 1.
Q4 (Oct. – Dec. will be released July 1.
Bring these items
What to Bring
From Taadidiin’s recommendations plus additions tailored to seasonal extremes:
Water (carry at least 2 L in a day-hiking pack)
Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat
Sturdy hiking shoes and breathable, layered clothing
Camera, extra batteries or memory cards
Day-hiking backpack
In winter: warm sweater or coat, gloves
Recommended: trekking poles or walking sticks for stability on uneven terrain
Do not bring these items:
Drones
Pets
Strollers
Metal frames baby carriers
No Smoking
Cardiac Canyon hiking and Photography Tours with Taadidiin Tours and Canyon Country Outdoors
Take the hassle out of your adventure! Forget about coordinating with multiple tour companies—now you can book everything with just one click. Dineh Tours handles your entrance to all these world-class destinations, saving you time and eliminating the stress of syncing different tours. Their ultra-clean van will pick you up right at your door, so you can relax and enjoy your experience, worry-free. The vans are equipped with a sound system, ensuring you hear your guide clearly, along with a television that highlights and educates you about the rich culture, history, and nature of the area. You can trust that your Navajo guide will be prompt, professional, knowledgeable, and entertaining. These tours are more than just visits to stunning sights—they are immersive experiences that introduce you to not only these breathtaking landscapes but also the vibrant ecosystem and the people who call this place home.
If you want to paddle the Colorado River through Glen Canyon you will need to hire a Kayak Backhaul Service to provide transportation up the river so that you can float back down to your vehicle. Kayak the Colorado has got this system dialed. Book your backhaul here ~ BOOK NOW
The Suicide Trail is a moderate rock climb located in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and can be descended and the climbed using natural anchors. The climbing is on loose and soft Navajo Sandstone so great care should be taken if you take on this challenge. If you die, it’s your own fault! The technical climbing section of this route is approximately 450 feet and then there is the talus section that will get you to the river’s edge. Anchors are easily made from natural features (large boulders) and no bolts exist on the route. There are some old ropes that the locals used to use that are still hanging but are rotten and probably should be removed. A long piece of webbing comes in handy for creating both anchors. This route is super fun!
Back in the mid-80s, my cousin and best friend Anthony and I totally ignored the “big time” mom rules and climbed down the 700-foot cliffs of Glen Canyon, just below Page, Arizona, on a route known as the “Suicide Trail.” We were 7 years old, and we absolutely sent it! AND it was EPIC!! Fast forward to today—I’m now 53, out of shape, and looking for a fat man adventure. I wanted to try it again. I wanted to try it again. It took me a few tries but persistence pays off and I finally send the route.
The start of the route is a bit tricky to find. It is located over the wall of the Dam Overlook
We’re happy to announce that Canyon Country Outdoors is now partnering with Lake Powell Paddle Boards! These guys are truly top-notch – from their experienced guides and high-quality equipment to their unparalleled customer service. Don’t hesitate to book your Antelope Canyon Kayak Tour with them!
Antelope Canyon is a five-star, world-class paddle through one of the most iconic slot canyons on Earth. This amazing trip offers a labyrinth of narrow, towering sandstone walls that gradually close in as you progress, creating a peaceful, almost otherworldly atmosphere where light dances off the red and orange rock, casting mesmerizing reflections on the emerald green water. This five-mile paddle, under mild wind conditions, is a moderate half-day experience for the average paddler but can quickly become more challenging if it gets gusty. Starting earlier in the day is the best way to avoid the frequent afternoon winds in the region. Once you reach the end of the paddle, hop out of your kayak or SUP and enjoy an easy hike through the slot canyon to fully immerse yourself in the experience. Water levels fluctuate significantly seasonally and yearly, so at lower levels, you may need to haul your kayak or SUP down the rocks to the lake’s edge to launch.
