Biidi the Arch: How to Visit the Shell Gas Station Sand Cave Near Page, Arizona

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Chances are, by now you've heard of or seen the Secret Gas Station Sand Cave near Page, Arizona. For years, this location sat on private property, and local tourism wasn't actively promoting it. Now that the property owners allow visitors and the local tourism organization publicly promotes the site, I'm comfortable sharing exactly how to find it.

Officially known as Biidi the Arch, this photogenic sandstone formation is also called Shell Gas Station Cave because it's located just behind a Shell gas station in Page. But don't go expecting an actual freestanding arch! It's more of a sandstone alcove that, when photographed with an ultra-wide-angle lens, creates the appearance of a massive cave.

And the best part? It's an incredibly easy, kid-friendly walk that takes about 30 minutes, including photographs. I'll share exactly where to park, how to find the cave, and my favorite tips for photographing it.

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Biidi the Arch: Quick Visitor Guide

Where Is the Shell Gas Station Sand Cave in Page, Arizona?

Biidi the Arch, also known as Shell Gas Station Cave, Big Lake Sand Cave, or the Secret Sand Cave, is located behind the Shell gas station and Big Lake Trading Post at 1501 Coppermine Road in Page, Arizona.

It's just a short drive from popular attractions like Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon, making it an easy addition to your Page itinerary.

Unlike some of the more remote sandstone formations throughout the Southwest, this one doesn't require a long hike, a high-clearance vehicle, or complicated navigation.

How to Hike to Biidi the Arch: Distance, Directions & Parking

The hike to Biidi the Arch, also known as the Secret Gas Station Sand Cave, is short, easy, and kid-friendly.

• Distance: 0.4 miles round-trip
• Elevation gain: Approximately 90 feet
• Difficulty: Easy and kid-friendly
• Trail surface: Soft sand
• Time needed: Approximately 30 minutes, including photography

Where to Park and How to Find the Trail

I parked near the Shell gas station at the following coordinates:

Parking coordinates: 36.8961453, -111.4438058

View My Exact Parking Location on Google Maps ↗

Be considerate of the business and avoid blocking gas pumps, entrances, or customer parking.

From the parking area, walk toward the sandstone formations behind the gas station.

Secret Sand Cave coordinates: 36.8973135, -111.4421368

View the Cave Location on Google Maps ↗

You may find older hiking directions telling you to crawl underneath a barbed-wire fence. That is no longer necessary.

What to Expect on the Hike

The trail is an easy walk with no scrambling or climbing required. The only thing that makes it slightly more challenging is the soft sand, which can take more effort than walking on a typical dirt trail.

Otherwise, it's a very manageable hike for families with young children.

Once you reach the alcove, walk all the way to the back and turn around to see the cave-like view you've probably seen all over social media. If you stand at the entrance, you won't get the same effect. It's all about perspective!

Want to follow my exact hiking route? I've shared my recorded trail publicly on Gaia GPS so you can follow the same route.

Follow My Secret Sand Cave Hiking Route on Gaia GPS ↗

Biidi the Arch Photos: Best Angles & Camera Tips

1. Bring an Ultra-Wide-Angle Lens

If you want to capture the entire cave-like opening, you'll definitely want a wide-angle lens.

I recommend 20mm or wider on a full-frame camera. The wider your lens, the easier it will be to include the sweeping sandstone walls and create that dramatic cave-like perspective. Even at 20mm, you will have to bend down at the very back of the wall to get the entire "cave-like" appearance.

If you're photographing with an iPhone, use the 0.5x ultra-wide camera.

And remember, this isn't actually a massive enclosed cave. Much of the effect comes from where you stand and how you frame your photograph.

2. Photograph From the Back of the Alcove

For the classic photograph, position yourself toward the back of the sandstone alcove and shoot outward.

This allows the curved sandstone walls to frame the opening and creates the illusion of a much larger cave.

Try both vertical and horizontal compositions, and experiment with your camera angle to see how the shape changes.

What to Know Before Visiting Biidi the Arch

Although the location is now promoted by local tourism, remember that you're visiting an area associated with private property, not a developed National Park trail.

Please be respectful of the landowners and surrounding area. No glass containers, no graffiti, and absolutely no carving or writing on the sandstone walls. These formations are fragile, and damage can be permanent.

Stay on existing paths whenever possible, pack out everything you bring, and avoid trampling desert vegetation. Let's keep this beautiful little spot in good condition for everyone who visits after us!

There are no facilities at the cave itself, but the Shell gas station is just a short walk away if you need restrooms or want to grab water or snacks. Please be considerate of the business and its customers.

Where to Stay in Page, Arizona

If you're visiting Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, or Lake Powell, I recommend staying in Page, Arizona. It's a convenient home base for exploring the area.

I'll tell you right now, Page isn't exactly known for luxurious accommodations, but there are a couple of places I've personally stayed that I recommend.

• Lake Powell Resort: You really can't beat the views of Lake Powell from this property. If you're looking for a scenic place to stay, this would be my pick.
• Best Western View of Lake Powell Hotel: Another solid option in Page. Nothing fancy, but it's been comfortable and clean during my visits.

Things to Do in Page, Arizona Near the Secret Sand Cave

If you're visiting Page, there are several other places worth exploring nearby:

• Horseshoe Bend: One of Arizona's most recognizable overlooks, with a short hike to incredible views of the Colorado River. Check out my Horseshoe Bend photography and hiking guide.
• Antelope Canyon: Antelope Canyon is one of the most popular slot sanyons in the world, and it can only be visited with an authorized Navajo tour guide, Tours often sell out well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
  • I recommend booking your tour ahead of time to secure your preferred date and time.
  • Check Antelope Canyon Tour Availability and Prices
• Lake Powell: A great destination for kayaking, boating, and exploring Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.
• Glen Canyon Dam Overlook Trail: A short walk with views of Glen Canyon Dam and the Colorado River.

How Do You Get to Biidi the Arch in Page, Arizona?

Biidi the Arch is located behind the Shell gas station and Big Lake Trading Post at 1501 Coppermine Road in Page, Arizona. From the parking area, it's approximately a 0.4-mile round-trip walk through soft sand. I've included my exact parking coordinates, cave location, and recorded Gaia GPS route above.

Is Biidi the Arch Worth Visiting?

Absolutely, especially if you're already spending time around Page.

It's a quick, family-friendly stop that doesn't require much planning, and it makes for some really fun photographs.

Just keep your expectations realistic. You're visiting a relatively small sandstone alcove, not a massive arch or cave. But with the right perspective and a wide-angle lens, it's easy to see why this little spot has become so popular.

Looking for more hidden gems like this one?