Antelope canyon from Las Vegas

Question

I reach Vegas around 2 PM on Dec 24th and have the upper antelope canyon tour at 9:35AM on Dec 25th. I plan to start drive from Vegas at 3:00 AM to reach Page by 9AM (Arizona time). Is it safe to drive at that time ? Any other suggestions?

Answer

Driving from Las Vegas to Page, Arizona in the early morning hours on December 25th is technically possible, but there are several safety and practical considerations you should be aware of. The drive is approximately 275–280 miles and takes around 4.5 to 5 hours under normal conditions, meaning leaving at 3:00 AM would get you to Page around 8:30–9:00 AM, just in time for your 9:35 AM Upper Antelope Canyon tour.

Safety and conditions:

December in northern Arizona and southern Utah can bring icy patches, especially at higher elevations or shaded areas. Early morning temperatures may be below freezing, so roads could be slippery.
Driving in the dark for 4–5 hours on mostly rural highways can be tiring and requires alertness. There are stretches with minimal lighting and limited services along US-93, I-15, and US-89.
Check road conditions before departure, especially for snow or ice advisories on Arizona and Utah DOT websites.

Alternatives and suggestions:

Consider staying overnight in Page on December 24th. This eliminates early morning driving and reduces stress before your tour.
If staying in Page is not feasible, ensure your vehicle is well-prepared for winter driving—tires in good condition, ice scraper, warm clothing, and emergency supplies.
Start your drive as early as possible to allow for stops and any delays. Keep a flexible buffer in case of traffic or weather.
Consider splitting the drive by stopping halfway in a town like St. George, UT the night before if you want a safer, more relaxed pace.
Be mindful of limited services on Christmas Day—gas stations, restaurants, and convenience stores may be closed along the route.

In summary, while the drive is possible at 3:00 AM, the combination of winter conditions, darkness, and holiday closures makes it risky. Staying overnight in Page or nearby is the safest and least stressful option, allowing you to fully enjoy your Upper Antelope Canyon tour without fatigue or time pressure.