When visitors ask about Antelope Canyon, they're often captivated by its stunning beauty - the way sunlight dances through the narrow openings, creating magical beams that touch the sandstone floor. But as a member of the Young family, I want to share something deeper: the profound spiritual significance these canyons hold for our people.
Guardians of the Wind People
Growing up, we were taught that these weren't just beautiful formations - they were sacred spaces, home to what we call the Wind People. My grandmothers would tell us, "These canyons are not places for play; they are places for prayer and respect." We weren't allowed to enter them freely as children, even though they were practically in our backyard. These spaces required proper blessing and permission from our medicine people.
When tourism began to grow in the area, we faced a difficult decision. We witnessed early visitors coming to the canyons, some leaving behind graffiti or showing disrespect to these sacred places. My family, along with other traditional leaders, knew we needed to become the guardians of these spaces. Through proper ceremonies and blessings from our medicine people, we received guidance on how to share these canyons with the world while protecting their spiritual integrity.
The Geological Marvel
In our Navajo language, we call Upper Antelope Canyon "Tsé bighánílíní," which means "the place where water runs through rocks." Lower Antelope Canyon is known as "Hazdistazí," or "spiral rock arches." These names speak to the natural forces that created these masterpieces over millions of years.
The canyons tell a story of water and time. Flash floods and seasonal rains have carved these narrow pathways through the Navajo sandstone, creating what photographers call "slot canyons." But to us, every curve, every wave in the rock wall represents the patience of nature and the power of water to transform the earth.
Today, when we guide visitors through these sacred spaces, we share both the scientific wonder and the spiritual significance. We teach them about the delicate balance between preservation and appreciation, helping them understand why we ask them to follow certain protocols and treat the canyon with reverence.
These canyons are more than a tourist attraction - they're a living testament to our people's connection to the land, and we're honored to share their beauty while protecting their sanctity for future generations.
When you join us for a tour, you're not just witnessing a natural wonder - you're entering a sacred space that has been blessed and protected by generations of Navajo people. We invite you to experience these canyons with an open heart and a respectful spirit.