Nestled in the heart of the American Southwest lie the sinuous and stunning Antelope Canyon formations. The Upper and Lower Antelope Canyons are sculpted masterpieces of nature, drawing in photographers and adventurers alike with their otherworldly beauty and light play. Choosing between the Upper Antelope Canyon, with its accessible terrain and ethereal light beams, and the adventurous descent into the narrow spirals of Lower Antelope Canyon can perplex even the most seasoned travelers. Whether you’re captivated by the chance to capture the perfect sunbeam photograph or you’re eager to meander through the undulating waves of sandstone, this guide will illuminate the unique experiences each canyon offers, helping you decide Upper vs Lower Antelope Canyon which is better.
Antelope Canyon
Antelope Canyon, located on Navajo land near Page, Arizona, comprises two main sections, referred to as “Upper” (Tsé bighánílíni, “the place where water runs through rocks” in Navajo) and “Lower” (Hazdistazí, “spiral rock arches”).
This magnificent slot canyon was formed by erosion primarily due to flash flooding, where rushing water carried sand and rocks across the Navajo sandstone, carving out the narrow passageways and smoothing the hard edges to create a flowing, natural art piece.
Geological Formation
The creation of Antelope Canyon began millions of years ago with the cementing of dunes into solid rock. Over time, the region underwent significant climatic changes, leading to monsoon-like rainfalls.
Powerful flash floods, laden with abrasive particles, rushed through the cracks in the plateau, eroding the sandstone and eventually forming the intricately twisted corridors visible today.
The variance in colors and contours within the canyons results from the rock layers’ differential hardness and the water flow speed, with the upper parts of the canyon generally more expansive and the lower parts more narrow and serpentine.
Upper Antelope Canyon
Location and Access
Upper Antelope Canyon is situated just a few miles from Page, Arizona, and is the more frequented canyon section due to its ground-level entrance and overall ease of access. Tours are required to visit, and they lead guests along a relatively flat sandy path.
This accessibility makes the Upper Canyon ideal for visitors of all ages and physical abilities, including those who may not be comfortable with the ladder climbs required in Lower Antelope Canyon.
Unique Features
The Upper Antelope Canyon is renowned for its soaring walls and narrower base, which create a cathedral-like atmosphere. The interplay between light and shadow casts a magical spell on the swirling sandstone walls, which are smoother and feature more ‘flowing’ shapes compared to the angular geometry of the Lower Canyon.
Light Beams
One of the most enchanting spectacles in Upper Antelope Canyon is the appearance of light beams that shine down like spotlights from openings at the top of the canyon walls. These beams are most prominent around midday during the summer when the sun is high in the sky, making this time of day the most sought-after for photographers and sightseers.
Slot Canyons
As a quintessential slot canyon, Upper Antelope is characterized by its tall and narrow passageways. The slot nature of the canyon creates a remarkable visual experience, with just a sliver of sky visible above, and prompts a sense of awe and introspection as one walks through these ancient geological formations.
Photography Tips
Photographers should aim for a visit between late spring and early fall to capture the full majesty of Upper Antelope Canyon’s light beams and rock faces. A tripod can be invaluable for stability in low-light conditions, and shooting in a raw file format allows for greater flexibility in post-processing. Due to the high contrast of light, bracketing photos to create HDR images is often recommended.LookAndFeel
The Good
Upper Antelope Canyon, with its easily accessible ground-level entrance, appeals greatly to those who prefer a less strenuous visit. This section of the canyon is renowned for its towering canyon walls and the heavenly light beams that pierce through the narrow openings at the top, especially during midday in the summer months.
The photographic opportunities here are unparalleled, offering visitors a chance to capture the stunning play of light and shadow unique to this natural wonder.
The Bad
However, Upper Antelope Canyon’s popularity also serves as its downside. The overwhelming number of visitors, particularly during peak season, can detract from the natural serene experience many seek when visiting this marvel of nature.
Additionally, the cost of tours has been on the rise due to the canyon’s fame, making it less accessible for budget travelers. Lastly, the narrow confines of the canyon, while majestic, can sometimes lead to crowded and rushed tours, preventing a truly immersive experience.
Lower Antelope Canyon
Location and Access
Lower Antelope Canyon, located a few miles from Upper Antelope Canyon, offers a more physically demanding experience. Accessing this section involves descending steep, metal staircases before maneuvering through narrower passageways.
Its entrance is less conspicuous, tucked away and opening into the V-shaped valley below. Due to the climbing and walking involved, it’s less suitable for those with mobility issues, but it is a rewarding challenge for the more adventurous visitor.
Geological Differences
The Lower Antelope Canyon distinguishes itself with its V-shaped structure, contrasting the A-shape of its upper counterpart. Through millennia, the erosive forces have cut deeper into the Navajo sandstone, creating a more twisted and narrow path that visitors can explore. The geological layering here is often more pronounced, lending to a textured tapestry of stone that weaves through the canyon’s entirety.
Tour Options
Exploration of Lower Antelope Canyon requires guided tours, which tend to be smaller and more personal due to the physical nature of the trek. Visitors can choose from various tours, ranging from general walking to photographic tours that allow longer stops to capture the stunning interplay of light and rock.
These tours offer a more intimate connection with the rugged landscape, ensuring a memorable and immersive experience in this natural wonder.
The Good
Lower Antelope Canyon offers a unique charm of its own with its meandering corridors and V-shaped structures, contrasting the A-shaped formation of its upper counterpart. This part of the canyon tends to attract fewer visitors, allowing for a more intimate and leisurely exploration. The entry and exit points are situated at either end of the canyon, providing a linear walking path that prevents the need for retracing steps.
Adventurous visitors will appreciate the more challenging ladders and narrow steps, adding an element of exploration. The lighting within Lower Antelope Canyon offers a different kind of beauty, with vibrant hues and softer shadows contributing to its magical atmosphere.
The Bad
While Lower Antelope Canyon provides a less crowded experience, it is not without its drawbacks. The descent into the canyon is steep and involves navigating through narrow metal stairways, which may not be suitable for those with mobility issues or a fear of heights.
Furthermore, the canyon’s floor can be uneven in places, requiring extra care and sturdy footwear. Although the tour costs are generally lower than those for Upper Antelope Canyon, the need for physical agility might exclude some potential visitors.
Lastly, the lighting, while beautiful, does not produce the same dramatic light beams as seen in the Upper Canyon, which might disappoint those seeking the iconic photographic moment.
Comparing Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon
Landscape Contrasts
When comparing Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon, the prominent distinction lies in their structural composition. Upper Antelope Canyon’s A-shaped canyon walls create a towering overhead environment. In contrast, the V-shaped walls of Lower Antelope Canyon offer a more enclosed feel with undulating shapes and a tight valley floor.
The upper section provides a more comfortable stroll amongst broader passageways, while the lower section challenges visitors with its labyrinth-like twists and turns.
Crowd Levels
Crowd levels are another subtle yet significant difference between the two canyons. Upper Antelope Canyon is generally more crowded, as its accessibility attracts more visitors, including those with limited mobility or those looking for a less strenuous experience. Lower Antelope Canyon’s staircases and requirement for physical agility tend to deter larger tour groups, allowing for a quieter and less crowded visit.
Photography Opportunities
Both canyons boast extraordinary photography opportunities, though the type of shots and the experience can vary considerably. Upper Antelope’s towering walls are perfect for capturing vertical panoramas and stunning shafts of light during midday beams.
In contrast, Lower Antelope offers a play of colors against the twisted rock formations and a more nuanced light that appeals primarily to those seeking to capture the subtle intricacies of the canyon landscape. Each canyon presents its challenges and opportunities to photographers, from lighting to crowd management, making either a worthy addition to any photographer’s portfolio.
Upper vs. Lower Antelope Canyon: Weather and Best Time to Visit
Weather plays a pivotal role in planning a visit to Antelope Canyon. The area features a desert climate characterized by scorching summers, gentle winters, and occasional light rainfall. The canyons can be visited year-round, but certain times of the year enhance the experience significantly.
Seasonal Considerations
The peak season for Antelope Canyon is during the summer months when the light beams are at their most dramatic. However, this is also the hottest part of the year, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F (38°C). Spring and fall offer milder weather, with comfortable temperatures and fewer visitors, making it an ideal time for those looking to avoid the summer crowds.
Weather Impact on Experience
Rainfall, although infrequent, can affect access to the canyons, as flash flooding poses a serious risk and can lead to temporary closures. A clear, sunny day provides the best conditions for photography, as the sunlight enhances the natural hues of the canyon walls. Winter visits can be pleasantly quiet, and though the light beams are less visible, the sun’s lower angle creates a softer illumination of the canyon’s colors and textures.
Planning Your Visit: Upper vs. Lower Antelope Canyon
When preparing to visit Antelope Canyon, there are vital details to consider to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
Permits and Fees
Access to Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon is only possible through guided tours, which must be booked in advance. The Navajo Nation Parks and Recreation Department requires all visitors to procure a permit, typically included in the tour package price.
Fees vary depending on the tour length and type, with photography tours generally being higher priced due to extended duration and smaller group sizes. Children may often have reduced rates, but checking specific tour company policies is advisable.
Tour Companies
Numerous authorized tour operators offer diverse experiences to Antelope Canyon visitors. Selecting a reputable company that aligns with your expectations for the tour is essential. Some specialize in photographic tours, others in historical narratives, and some focus on providing a comprehensive cultural experience. Researching reviews and company profiles ahead of time can guide you to the tour that best suits your interests and fitness level.
Safety Guidelines
Safety in the canyons is paramount. Tour guides are well-trained to navigate the terrain and know the region’s weather patterns to avoid flash flood risks. It is essential to wear appropriate footwear for walking on uneven surfaces and to carry sufficient water, especially during the hotter months. Visitors should also heed any instructions their guides give, as they are in place to ensure a safe and pleasant visit for all.
Cultural Significance: Upper vs. Lower Antelope Canyon
Antelope Canyon is a natural marvel and a place of profound spiritual and cultural importance to the Navajo people, whose land it resides on. The Navajo, or Diné, regard the canyons as a sacred site, a canvas painted by the hands of nature and time, telling the story of their tribe’s resilience and connection to the earth.
Navajo History and Heritage
The Navajo Nation’s history is etched into Antelope Canyon’s walls. For centuries, this area has been a part of the Navajo homeland, serving as a site for prayer and reflection. The twisting canyons remind visitors of the Navajo’s deep-rooted culture and traditions that have withstood the challenges of history, from forced relocations to their current status as the second-largest recognized tribe in the United States.
Respectful Behavior
As visitors step into these sacred lands, it is paramount to exercise respectful behavior. This includes following the guidelines set by tour guides, refraining from touching the delicate canyon walls, and avoiding loud noises that would disrupt the tranquillity of the space.
Photography is permitted but should be done in a manner that is mindful of preserving the integrity and solemnity of the canyons. By respecting these practices, visitors protect the Navajo culture and ensure that this spiritual place remains untarnished for future generations.
Nearby Attractions: Upper vs. Lower Antelope Canyon
Horseshoe Bend
Just a short drive from Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend offers a breathtaking vista where the Colorado River meanders in a perfect horseshoe-shaped loop 1,000 feet below. This geological masterpiece is accessible via a 1.5-mile round-trip hike and is most striking during sunrise or sunset when the light casts a warm glow over the rock formations.
Lake Powell
Lake Powell sprawls as a vast reservoir on the Colorado River, spanning the boundary between Utah and Arizona. Known for its houseboat vacations, it also offers opportunities for fishing, swimming, and exploring the countless narrow canyons. Photographic prospects and recreational activities like kayaking and paddleboarding abound here.
Other Points of Interest
The region teems with additional attractions, including the Rainbow Bridge National Monument, the towering rock formations of Monument Valley, and the historic Navajo Bridge with impressive views. For hiking enthusiasts, the Wave — a mesmerizing sandstone rock formation in the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness — is a must-see.
However, a permit is required and is available via a lottery system due to its delicate nature. Each of these destinations shares the awe-inspiring beauty of the American Southwest and enriches the experience of any traveler exploring this part of the country.
Accommodations and Dining Options: Upper vs. Lower Antelope Canyon
Lodging Recommendations
When visiting Antelope Canyon, the nearby town of Page offers a variety of lodging options to suit any preference. From comfortable hotels that provide modern amenities, such as the Hyatt Place Page/Lake Powell, to the unique experience of staying in a cozy bed and breakfast like the Dreamkatchers Lake Powell B&B, there’s a place for everyone.
If you’re seeking a more natural retreat, camping sites and RV parks are available, with the Wahweap Campground being a notable favorite due to its proximity to Lake Powell and stellar views.
Dining Choices
Page, Arizona, is a hub for adventurers and a great place to enjoy diverse dining experiences. For those craving Southwestern flavors, the El Tapatio restaurant serves authentic Mexican cuisine, while the BirdHouse provides delicious fried chicken that is perfect after a day of exploration. If you’re looking for a meal with a view, the Rim View Chateaux offers a stunning overlook of Glen Canyon Dam.
Health-conscious visitors can indulge in fresh salads and sandwiches at the Canyon King Pizzeria, where ingredients are locally sourced and meals are made to order. Remember to visit the Big John’s Texas BBQ for a casual outdoor dining experience with live music. Whatever your tastes, Page’s dining scene has a table ready for you.
Transportation: Upper vs. Lower Antelope Canyon:
Getting to Antelope Canyon
Antelope Canyon, situated in northern Arizona, is most conveniently reached by car. The closest city with a full range of amenities and car rentals is Page, Arizona. Visitors flying into the region generally land at Page Municipal Airport (PGA) or drive from airports in Phoenix, Las Vegas, or Flagstaff, with Page being a drive of approximately two to four hours from these cities.
Car Rentals and Parking
Upon arrival in Page, several car rental agencies can accommodate your travel to Antelope Canyon. Options range from economy cars to SUVs that can handle rougher terrain around the area. Reservations are advisable, particularly in high tourist seasons. As for parking, once you reach the entrance of Antelope Canyon, there is a designated parking area for visitors.
Remember that the parking lot can fill up quickly, so arriving early in the day can be advantageous. Remember, only guided tours are allowed in Antelope Canyon, so ensure that your visit and parking align with your scheduled tour time.
Tips for a Memorable Experience: Upper vs. Lower Antelope Canyon:
To ensure you have an unforgettable visit to Antelope Canyon, consider these insider tips:
- Advance Planning: Secure your guided tour ahead of time, as spots tend to fill up fast, especially during peak season. Before your journey, check the weather conditions and plan accordingly.
- Respect Native Culture: Be mindful of the area’s cultural significance to the Navajo people. Consider reading up on Navajo history and traditions to enrich your visit.
- Off-Peak Visits: For a more serene experience, visit during off-peak hours or seasons when fewer visitors are needed.
Packing Essentials
A well-packed bag can make all the difference in your Antelope Canyon exploration:
- Hydration: Ensure ample water to stay well-hydrated in the arid climate.
- Sun Protection: Use sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect against the intense sun.
- Comfortable Footwear: Wear sturdy shoes suitable for walking on uneven sandy ground.
- Camera Gear: If you’re into photography, remember your camera and any additional gear, such as lenses or tripods; remember to protect them from sand.
- Layered Clothing: Be prepared for temperature shifts with layered clothing, especially if you’re visiting in cooler months.
Guided Tours vs. Self-guided Exploration
Antelope Canyon can only be visited through a guided tour, which provides several benefits:
- Safety: Guides know the terrain and can ensure safety as you navigate the area.
- Education: You’ll learn about the canyon’s geological history and its cultural significance for the Navajo people.
- Photography Tips: Most guides are also well-versed in photography and can help you capture the best shots of the canyon’s famous light beams.
Although self-guided exploration is not allowed in Antelope Canyon, nearby attractions such as Horseshoe Bend and Lake Powell offer the chance for personal discovery.
Environmental Conservation Efforts: Upper vs. Lower Antelope Canyon
Preservation Initiatives
Antelope Canyon is a natural wonder and a sensitive ecosystem that requires careful preservation efforts. The Navajo Nation oversees the canyon and has implemented several initiatives to protect and conserve its unique beauty. These include limiting daily visitor numbers, enforcing strict no-littering policies, and conducting regular clean-ups. Educational programs also inform visitors about the canyon’s ecological significance and the importance of leaving no trace.
Responsible Tourism Practices
Tourists play a crucial role in the conservation efforts for Antelope Canyon by adhering to responsible tourism practices. Visitors are encouraged to minimize their environmental impact by staying on marked paths, refraining from touching the delicate sandstone walls, and avoiding using disposable plastics.
By choosing eco-conscious tour operators and respecting local customs and rules, travelers help sustain the canyon’s pristine condition for future generations to admire.
Safety Precautions: Upper vs. Lower Antelope Canyon
Flash Flood Awareness
One of the most critical safety concerns while visiting Antelope Canyon is the risk of flash floods. Due to its narrow passageways and the region’s propensity for sudden, heavy rainfall, water can quickly fill the canyon without warning.
To ensure the safety of all visitors, guided tours continuously monitor weather conditions and flash flood warnings. It is crucial to abide by the advice and decisions of the professional guides trained to handle such emergencies. Remember, never enter the canyon if there is rain in the forecast.
Hydration and Sun Protection
The arid climate of northern Arizona can lead to dehydration much quicker than many visitors expect. To counteract this, carry enough water and drink regularly, even if you do not feel thirsty. Adequate sun protection is also vital, as the sun’s rays are magnified within the canyon walls.
Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen before your tour and reapply as necessary; wear a wide-brimmed hat and use sunglasses to protect your eyes. These precautions allow you to enjoy your Antelope Canyon adventure safely and comfortably.
Accessibility Considerations: Upper vs. Lower Antelope Canyon
Antelope Canyon’s natural structure presents unique challenges. Efforts have been undertaken to enhance accessibility for individuals with disabilities. To accommodate all visitors, the Navajo Nation and tour operators have worked to provide accessible pathways where possible. Specialized tours may be available upon request, offering assistance and modified routes that consider the needs of those with mobility impairments.
Facilities for Persons with Disabilities
Accessible facilities such as parking spaces, restrooms, and viewing areas are available at the Antelope Canyon entrance. Tour companies are generally equipped to help and have vehicles transporting individuals requiring assistance closer to the canyon entrance. It is advised to contact tour operators ahead of time to make necessary arrangements for a more comfortable and accommodating experience.
Terrain Challenges
The terrain inside Antelope Canyon can be challenging, with sandy floors and some narrow passages. While much of the Lower Antelope Canyon may not be accessible to standard wheelchairs or walkers, assistance devices specifically designed for off-road terrains can be used.
Additionally, Upper Antelope Canyon is known for being more accessible, with ground that is comparatively level and requires no climbing, allowing a broader range of visitors to experience the canyon’s beauty.
Unique Experiences and Activities: Upper vs. Lower Antelope Canyon
Apart from the breathtaking tours through the canyon, Antelope Canyon offers a range of unique experiences designed to cater to every visitor’s interests.
Photography Workshops
For photography enthusiasts, Antelope Canyon is a dream scenario with its surreal landscapes and interplay of light and shadow. Photography workshops are available and tailored to guide participants in capturing the canyon’s ethereal beauty.
Under the guidance of professional photographers, attendees can learn about the intricacies of light, composition, and camera settings suited for this unique environment.
Stargazing Tours
As night falls, the desert around Antelope Canyon transforms into an awe-inspiring celestial theatre, making it an excellent site for stargazing tours. These tours offer a serene experience under the stars, away from the light pollution of major urban centers. Expert astronomers usually accompany these excursions, providing insights into the cosmos and using telescopes to view distant planets, galaxies, and nebulae.
Local Wildlife and Flora: Upper vs. Lower Antelope Canyon
The semi-arid region surrounding Antelope Canyon is home to a fascinating array of wildlife and plant species that have adapted to the harsh conditions of the desert. The region nurtures a diverse ecosystem, home to the elusive desert bighorn sheep and swiftly moving lizards.
Wildlife Encounters
Visitors may spot various wildlife species, including mule deer, jackrabbits, and multiple birds, such as the peregrine falcon and the American goldfinch. Sightings of these animals offer a special treat to nature enthusiasts and remind us of the need to preserve these creatures’ natural habitats.
Native Plant Species
The flora of Antelope Canyon includes an assortment of native plants that have evolved to thrive in the low-water conditions of the desert. Species such as the sagebrush, Utah juniper, and the iconic Joshua tree contribute not just to the aesthetics of the landscape but also play crucial roles in the local ecology by providing habitat and food sources for the indigenous wildlife.
Testimonials and Visitor Experiences: Upper vs. Lower Antelope Canyon
First-hand Accounts
Visitors universally praise the spellbinding allure of Antelope Canyon, emphasizing the surreal silence inside the canyon that is only broken by the occasional drip of water or the whisper of the wind. Many recount their awe upon witnessing the dancing beams of sunlight piercing through the narrow crevices, creating a kaleidoscope of colors on the canyon walls.
Reviews
Most reviews of Antelope Canyon tours are overwhelmingly positive. Guests often highlight the knowledgeable and passionate guides who provide fascinating insights into the area’s history, geology, and cultural significance.
Negative comments are rare, but when present, they typically pertain to the crowded nature of the tours during peak seasons, advising potential visitors to book their excursions during off-peak times for a more serene experience.
Which Antelope Canyon Tour is Better?
Deciding which Antelope Canyon tour is better largely depends on what you value most in your visiting experience. If unparalleled photography opportunities and ease of access are your priorities, Upper Antelope Canyon may be the choice for you. Its midday light beams create a spectacle unrivaled in natural beauty.
However, if you prefer a more personal, less crowded exploration with a touch of adventure, Lower Antelope Canyon with its unique geological formations and the challenge of its pathways might be more your style. Budget travelers or those seeking a quieter connection with nature might find Lower Antelope Canyon more appealing, despite the absence of the dramatic light beams found in its upper counterpart.
Ultimately, both sections of Antelope Canyon offer unique experiences that cater to different tastes and physical abilities, making them both worth a visit for their reasons.
So, Which One Do You Choose?
The choice between Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and physical requirements. For those who prioritize ease of access and the chance to witness the famous light beams, Upper Antelope Canyon stands out as the ideal choice.
On the other hand, Lower Antelope Canyon offers a more tranquil, less crowded experience with a modest level of adventure, suited for those who wish to immerse themselves deeper into the canyon’s natural beauty. Before making a decision, consider what aspects of your visit are most important to you—be it photography, adventure, accessibility, or the tranquility of nature.
Both canyons boast their unique charms and challenges; hence, your choice should align with what you hope to get out of your visit to this magnificent natural wonder.
Conclusion
Regardless of which segment of Antelope Canyon you decide to explore, the experience promises to be extraordinary. Both Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon hold their allure, with captivating natural formations and unique photo opportunities that you’ll cherish for years to come. Remember, the key to a fulfilling visit lies in preparation and choosing the option that best aligns with your interests and physical capabilities.
Whether you’re drawn by the enchanting light beams of Upper Antelope Canyon or the adventurous pathways of Lower Antelope Canyon, both will leave you in awe of nature’s artistic prowess. Whichever path you choose, Antelope Canyon awaits to unfold its timeless beauty before your eyes.
FAQs about Upper vs. Lower Antelope Canyon
What is the best time of year to visit Antelope Canyon?
For the best Antelope Canyon experience, schedule your visit in spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). These periods boast pleasant weather and fewer crowds, unlike the summer months, which can be both sweltering and crowded.
Do I need a permit or guide to enter Antelope Canyon?
Antelope Canyon is accessible only through guided tours due to the land’s protected status. Tour costs cover permits. Visitors can only enter the canyon with a licensed guide.
Are the Antelope Canyon tours suitable for children?
Most tours allow children, but checking with individual tour operators is essential as some may have age restrictions for safety reasons. Consider the length and difficulty of the tour when deciding if it is appropriate for young children.
How physically demanding are the Antelope Canyon tours?
The physical demands can vary by tour. Lower Antelope Canyon tours involve climbing stairs and navigating narrow passages, while Upper Antelope Canyon is relatively level and more accessible. Before making a reservation, it is advisable to evaluate your fitness level regularly.
Can persons with disabilities access Antelope Canyon?
There are tours specially designed to accommodate visitors with disabilities. Prospective visitors should contact tour companies directly to discuss accessibility needs and options.
How long do the tours at Antelope Canyon typically last?
Standard tours usually last between 90 minutes to two hours. Photography tours may be extended to allow participants more time to capture the perfect shot. Check with the tour providers for specific durations.
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