from PHX, flight into antelope or Grand Canyon, late Dec?

Question

Going to be in Phoenix the day after Christmas through New Years.

Im open to seeing either Antelope or GC (teens requested) but don't want to spend an entire day on the bus/car getting to/from. I see flights in/out of Antelope Canyon or GC are $$ but may be worth our time.

Would anyone suggest a flight tour into either?

Answer

Visiting Antelope Canyon or the Grand Canyon from Phoenix in late December can be challenging if you want to minimize long drives, as both destinations are several hours away by car. Flight tours are a popular alternative, especially for families with teens, as they offer stunning aerial views without the long transit times.

Flight Tours vs. Driving:

Grand Canyon: Driving from Phoenix to the South Rim is about 3.5–4 hours one way. A flight tour from Phoenix can range from 1–2 hours each way depending on whether it’s a direct sightseeing flight or includes landing at the canyon.
Antelope Canyon: Located near Page, AZ, driving from Phoenix takes roughly 5–6 hours one way, making a same-day visit impractical by car. A flight tour significantly reduces travel time and allows more sightseeing.
Flight tours provide unique aerial perspectives, ideal for photography and sightseeing, and teens often enjoy the experience of flying low over the canyons and the Colorado River.

Considerations for Flight Tours:

Book in advance, especially for late December, as the holiday period is busy.
Check the aircraft type; some tours use small planes or helicopters. Helicopters often land near or inside the canyon, while fixed-wing planes may only provide flyovers.
Weather can be variable in December; flights may be delayed or rescheduled due to snow, low clouds, or high winds.
Flight tours are more expensive than driving but save significant travel time and reduce fatigue.

Other Tips:

If you choose the Grand Canyon, the South Rim is accessible and open year-round. Winter crowds are lower, but daylight hours are shorter, so plan accordingly.
Antelope Canyon tours are operated by Navajo guides and typically require walking through narrow slots. Some tours may close in winter due to icy conditions, so check availability.
For a family-friendly option with teens, consider a combination: a flight tour for one canyon (either Grand or Antelope) and then a shorter ground excursion at a nearby viewpoint or Lake Powell area.

In summary, for a short post-Christmas trip, flight tours are highly recommended to maximize your sightseeing while minimizing long drives. Grand Canyon flight tours are slightly more convenient from Phoenix, but Antelope Canyon flights are possible if you book early and plan carefully. Be prepared for winter weather and limited daylight hours.

from PHX, flight into antelope or Grand Canyon, late Dec?

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