Hike Water Holes Canyon (Secret Canyon), Arizona

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Water Holes Canyon (aka Secret Canyon) is a slot canyon on Navajo land south of Page, Arizona that is similar to Antelope Canyon but without the crowds. The canyon extends either side of US 89 and becomes much deeper downstream as it flows into the short section of Glen Canyon. The canyon has a number of sheer drops that will require ropes and there are several narrow passageways both west and especially east of the road have exceptionally pretty rock formations. No technical gear is needed for upper Water Holes. Rope, rappelling gear, helmets, and extra webbing will be needed for middle and lower Water Holes. Lower Waterholes has the "Big Drop", the 300ft rappel it also has swimming sections along with the narrowest section of the canyon. All of Water Holes Canyon lies on Navajo land and so a hiking permit must be obtained. The best place to acquire the permit is at the Tribal Parks Office next to the Leche-e Chapter House, 3 miles south of Page along the Copper Mine Road. That office is hidden in a trailer behind the well-marked Boys and Girls Club building. WARNING: Slot canyons are particularly dangerous due to the risk of flash floods. Storms far away can send walls of water down the narrow canyons and hikers have been killed in such events. In many slot canyons, it can be miles before a safe exit or rescue is possible. Hikers should check conditions carefully and not rely on seeing the sky to judge the weather. If there is even a slight chance of rain, do not enter slot canyons.

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