Can you guess which one was taken in the Fall and in the Winter? These images were both RAW and taken at the same time of the day (noon) with clear skies, but in different months. One’s in October, the other’s in December. The answer is at the end of the post.
Planning a trip to Lower Antelope Canyon and wondering whether to go in fall or winter? So, I recently went to Lower Antelope Canyon last October, which was my second time. The first time was this year, in January, which was winter. Both were around noon visits. You will trek and climb steep stairs. Here’s a detailed comparison of visiting during each season—advantages, disadvantages, and key reminders to help you choose and prepare.
| Feature | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | Moderate (cool mornings, warm afternoons) | Cold (chilly days, potentially freezing nights) |
| Crowd Levels | Lower than summer, but moderate | Very low |
| Light / Color | Warm tones, good lighting, strong for photography | Soft, diffused light, unique tones, fewer beams |
| Iconic Light Beams | Less frequent than summer, but possible | Rare |
| Booking/Tour Availability | Good, but still fairly busy | Excellent availability |
| Weather/Safety Issues | Few (just standard caution) | Cold surfaces, weather variability, shorter day |
| Best For | Balanced experience: comfort + color | Quiet, contemplative visit, budget-friendly |
My Recommendation
If I were to pick one season, because my priorities are peace & quiet, getting away from the crowds, and I don’t mind dressing for cold and sacrificing the iconic light-beams, then winter is my top choice.
However, if you’re not a fan of extreme cold, I’d lean towards fall for the balanced benefits: comfortable weather, beautiful lighting/colors, and fewer extreme conditions.
Final Checklist Before You Go
- ✅ Reserve your guided tour in advance (Book through Dixies’ or Ken’s online)
- ✅ Check timing: aim for late morning/midday for best light.
- ✅ Wear appropriate shoes for ladders/uneven terrain.
- ✅ Dress in layers; bring sunscreen, hat, sunglasses.
- ✅ Bring water, snacks, a small daypack (check tour rules for bag size).
- ✅ Check weather forecast & local conditions (road access, surface conditions).
- ✅ Arrive early (recommended 15–30 minutes before tour).
- ✅ Respect the land: stay with your guide, follow rules, carry out any trash.
Important note: NO VIDEOS ARE ALLOWED. Also, you can stop by the Horseshoe Bend, which is a 5-min drive from the canyon. Note the time changes as well if you’re coming from the Central Time Zone. For those who do not want to do a challenging trek and are scared of heights, I suggest you the Upper Antelope Canyon instead.
ANSWER: The image on the Left was taken last October, and the one on the Right was in December! The canyon was pretty in the eyes, but the lighting during the fall vs. winter made the difference.
larswrites 