Secret Gas Station Sand Cave in Page, Arizona: How to Visit Biidi the Arch
Looking for the Secret Sand Cave behind the Shell gas station in Page, Arizona? Here's how to find Biidi the Arch, including my exact hiking route, parking coordinates, and photography tips.
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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.
Where Is the Secret Sand Cave in Page, Arizona?
Biidi the Arch, also known as Shell 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.
Where to Park for Biidi the Arch
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, you'll 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.
For anyone wanting the exact route, I've shared my recorded trail publicly on Gaia GPS.
Follow My Exact Secret Sand Cave Hiking Route on Gaia GPS ↗
Video of me walking through Biidi the Arch (Secret Sand Cave) near Page, Arizona, running my hand along the textured sandstone walls.
Secret Gas Station Sand Cave Hike: Distance & Difficulty
- 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
The hike to Biidi the Arch is an easy walk with no scrambling or climbing required.
The only thing that makes it slightly more challenging is the soft sand. If you've spent much time hiking in the desert, you know walking through sand can take a little more effort than a typical dirt trail.
Otherwise, this is a very manageable walk for families and 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!
Best Time to Visit the Secret Sand Cave
The cave can be visited throughout the year, but temperatures around Page can become extremely hot during summer. Because the walk is short, you don't need to dedicate a particular season to visiting.
For photography, the direction and intensity of the sunlight will make a difference.
The cave opening faces generally southwest, so direct afternoon sunlight can create strong contrast between the illuminated sandstone and shaded areas. Depending on the sun's position, it can also shine directly through the middle of the opening, making it difficult to photograph.
If afternoon is your only option, try adjusting your position to partially hide the sun behind the sandstone walls and create a sunburst. This can turn otherwise challenging lighting into a really beautiful photograph.
Morning or softer, indirect light may be easier to work with if you're hoping for more even exposure throughout the alcove. I prefer to go here just after shooting Horseshoe Bend for sunrise.
Video of me walking inside Biidi the Arch, also known as the Secret Sand Cave, surrounded by curved sandstone walls giving an alcove appearance near Page, Arizona.
Secret Gas Station Sand Cave Photography 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.
Is the Secret Sand Cave 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.
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