Upper Antelope Canyon -how bouncy the ride & walking pace

Question

My husband is 81 and had extensive back surgery one year ago.We determined that Upper Antelope Canyon is more appropriate than the lower for us. However, we need to know before booking how fast a pace you need to walk on a tour? We figured the pink jeep tours in Sedona would be too hard on his back. How much jostling in the 3 mile ride to and from the upper canyon?

Answer

Upper Antelope Canyon is generally much more accessible and easier to navigate than Lower Antelope Canyon, which makes it a good choice for someone with mobility concerns or back issues. The canyon floor is relatively flat, and the walking is on packed sand, so it’s not strenuous. Most guided tours move at a leisurely pace, allowing plenty of time to take photos and enjoy the scenery.

Walking Pace:

Tour guides usually accommodate slower walkers, especially if you inform them ahead of time.
The distance inside the canyon is roughly 1.5 miles round-trip, with minimal elevation changes.
Stops are frequent for photographs, so your husband can rest and walk at his own comfortable pace.

Vehicle Ride to Canyon:

The ride from the parking area or visitor center to the canyon entrance is about 3 miles on a dirt road.
The road can be slightly bumpy, but the tour operators drive slowly and cautiously, so jostling is minimal compared to off-road adventure tours like the Sedona pink jeep tours.
If your husband has severe sensitivity, it may help to request front seats or seats with some suspension support.

Overall, Upper Antelope Canyon tours are considered manageable for seniors or those with back issues. Informing the tour company in advance about mobility concerns usually ensures a comfortable experience. Most visitors find it very doable, with more emphasis on enjoying the canyon than on strenuous activity.

Upper Antelope Canyon -how bouncy the ride & walking pace

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