The Wave: A Sandstone Masterpiece
Hike through time to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of The Wave, a geological marvel sculpted over millions of years in the Arizona desert.
The Wave is a stunning sandstone rock formation in northern Arizona, near the Utah border, known for its colorful, undulating forms. A permit is required to hike to this geological wonder, located in the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness.
A brief summary to The Wave
- The Wave Trail, Kanab, Arizona, 84741, US
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Apply for permits well in advance, as the lottery is highly competitive.
- Bring at least one gallon of water per person, especially during warmer months.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots and sun protection, including a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
- Download offline maps and bring a GPS device, as cell service is unreliable.
- Check road conditions before heading to the Wire Pass Trailhead, as House Rock Valley Road can be challenging, especially after rain or snow.
Getting There
-
Driving
The Wave is accessed via the Wire Pass Trailhead, located off House Rock Valley Road. From Highway 89, turn south onto House Rock Valley Road (8.3 miles east of Kanab, UT, or 40 miles west of Page, AZ). Drive approximately 8 miles south on this unpaved road to the Wire Pass Trailhead parking lot. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended, and 4-wheel drive may be necessary depending on road conditions. Check current conditions before travel. Parking is included with the permit.
-
Walking
From the Wire Pass Trailhead parking lot, the hike to The Wave is approximately 3.2 miles each way. The trail begins by crossing House Rock Valley Road and heading north through a wash. After about 0.5 miles, look for a trail to the right leading uphill. Follow the provided map and occasional signs, as the trail is not clearly marked. The hike involves some sandy and rocky terrain. Be prepared for a moderate challenge and bring plenty of water.
Discover more about The Wave
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Twin Buttes
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Discover Twin Buttes in Kanab, Utah – a breathtaking historical landmark showcasing stunning geology and rich cultural heritage.
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Utah, USA
32.2 km
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Balanced Rock
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Witness the gravity-defying Balanced Rock in Marble Canyon, Arizona, a stunning testament to nature's artistry and geological processes.
Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness Area
38.4 km
Explore the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness: a stunning landscape of slot canyons, towering cliffs, and ancient history in the heart of the Colorado Plateau.
Wahweap Creek
38.9 km
Discover Utah's hidden gem: hike through red rock canyons and explore the otherworldly Wahweap Hoodoos along the serene Wahweap Creek.
Lonely Dell Ranch
39.2 km
Discover pioneer life at Lonely Dell Ranch in Marble Canyon, Arizona. Explore historic cabins, orchards, and a peaceful cemetery.
Glen Canyon
40.0 km
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Wahweap Bay
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Explore the heart of Lake Powell at Wahweap Bay: boating, canyons, and stunning desert scenery await!
Great Chamber
45.1 km
Discover the Great Chamber in Kanab, Utah – a stunning hiking area with breathtaking sandstone formations, ideal for outdoor adventures and nature photography.
Quality Inn Kanab National Park Area
45.1 km
Experience comfort and adventure at Quality Inn Kanab National Park Area, your ideal base for exploring Utah's stunning national parks and landscapes.
Kanab Visitor Center
45.2 km
Explore Kanab, Utah, from the Kanab Visitor Center, your gateway to breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable outdoor adventures.
Crosby Home & Farm Center
45.3 km
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Cutler Point
45.3 km
Explore the breathtaking Cutler Point in Utah, a mountain peak offering stunning vistas, serene trails, and a perfect escape into nature's beauty.
The New Wave
45.3 km
Discover the surreal beauty of The Wave, a world-famous sandstone formation in the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. Permits required.
National Park Tourz
45.4 km
Discover the stunning beauty of national parks with National Park Tourz in Kanab, Utah. Experience guided tours that showcase nature's wonders.
Unmissable attractions to see
Melody Arch
0.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Melody Arch in Marble Canyon, Arizona - a hiker's paradise filled with stunning landscapes and serene trails.
Buckskin Gulch Petroglyphs
2.6 km
Discover the ancient petroglyphs of Buckskin Gulch in Kanab, Utah, where history meets breathtaking natural beauty in a serene hiking paradise.
Wire Pass Trailhead
3.1 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Wire Pass Trailhead in Kanab, Utah, where stunning canyons and unique geological formations await outdoor enthusiasts.
White Pocket
10.1 km
Explore the surreal landscapes of White Pocket, Arizona, a hidden gem with stunning sandstone formations and breathtaking views perfect for photography.
Toadstool Hoodoos Trailhead
16.6 km
Experience the captivating beauty of the Toadstool Hoodoos Trailhead, where surreal rock formations meet the serene landscapes of Utah.
Toadstool Hoodoos
17.3 km
Explore the enchanting Toadstool Hoodoos, a captivating natural wonder in the heart of Utah's Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, perfect for hiking and photography.
Escalante National Monument
21.1 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich history of Escalante National Monument, a hidden gem in southern Utah's captivating wilderness.
Vermilion Cliffs National Monument
21.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, a stunning geological wonder in Arizona, perfect for hiking and photography.
Condor Viewing Site
25.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and conservation efforts at the Condor Viewing Site in Marble Canyon, Arizona, a unique wildlife adventure.
OLD PARIA UTAH
27.1 km
Experience the stunning landscapes and rich history of Old Paria, a hidden gem in Utah's breathtaking wilderness.
Paria Townsite
28.5 km
Discover the enchanting landscapes and historical remnants of Paria Townsite, a hidden gem in Utah's stunning desert terrain.
Le Fevre Overlook
28.7 km
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Vermilion Cliffs National Monument Bulletin Board
29.8 km
Essential information for exploring the rugged beauty of Vermilion Cliffs National Monument in Marble Canyon, Arizona.
Yellow Rock
30.1 km
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Lower Hackberry Canyon Trailhead
30.3 km
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Essential places to dine
Cliff Dwellers Restaurant
35.9 km
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Maharaja Indian Express Cuisine
45.4 km
Experience the essence of India at Maharaja Indian Express Cuisine, where flavorful dishes meet fast service in a welcoming atmosphere.
Wendy's
45.4 km
Experience delicious fast food at Wendy's in Kanab - perfect for hungry travelers seeking quick meals amidst Utah's natural beauty.
Driftwood Lounge
46.2 km
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Rainbow Room
46.2 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine with stunning views of Lake Powell at the Rainbow Room in Page, Arizona.
Big Al's Burgers at The Junction
46.3 km
Experience delicious burgers in Kanab, Utah at Big Al's Burgers - where quality meets affordability in a welcoming atmosphere.
McDonald's
46.4 km
Experience convenience and comfort at McDonald's in Kanab, Utah - where delicious fast food meets friendly service.
Pizza Hut
46.4 km
Discover delicious pizza and chicken wings at Pizza Hut in Kanab – perfect for families and travelers seeking comfort food.
Only In Kanab
46.4 km
Experience exceptional dining at Only In Kanab—where local flavors meet warm hospitality in beautiful Southern Utah.
Don Beto's Mexican Food Kanab
46.4 km
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Latitude 37
46.4 km
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Havana Cabana the Taste of Cuba
46.5 km
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Wild Thyme Cafe
46.5 km
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Happy Trails BBQ
46.5 km
Experience mouth-watering barbecue at Happy Trails BBQ in Kanab – where delicious flavors meet friendly service amidst stunning Utah landscapes.
Restaurant
46.5 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Lotus Shop for Crystals Online Only
37.8 km
Explore a unique online gift shop in Kanab, Utah, specializing in crystals, gemstones, and spiritual artifacts for wellness and beauty.
Marble Canyon Trading Post
38.3 km
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Antelope Trails Interpretive Market
38.9 km
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Slippers One
45.2 km
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7-Eleven
45.4 km
Experience the convenience of 24/7 service at 7-Eleven in Kanab, Utah, your go-to stop for snacks, drinks, and travel essentials.
Family Dollar
45.8 km
Unbeatable bargains await at Family Dollar in Kanab, where you can find everything from groceries to clothing at incredible prices.
Verizon
45.9 km
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Critter Corner
45.9 km
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CASTLE ROCK OUTLET STORE
46.0 km
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Honey's Marketplace
46.1 km
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Lumber Plus True Value Hardware
46.2 km
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Thewagonwheel
46.2 km
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Kanab Liquor Package Agency
46.4 km
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Kane Co. Hospital Thrift Store
46.5 km
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Healing by WinGate
46.5 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Chevron
36.5 km
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Indian Fry Bread
36.5 km
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Jacob Lake Inn
36.5 km
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Buckskin Tavern
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Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Page Lake Powell
47.5 km
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Kaibab Plateau
48.1 km
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State 48 Tavern
49.3 km
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Blue Buddha Sushi Lounge
49.3 km
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Grand Canyon Brewing +Distillery
49.3 km
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Blue Bar & Wine
49.3 km
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Red Heritage- Native American Dinner Show
49.3 km
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Dam Bar & Grille
49.3 km
Experience the essence of American cuisine at Dam Bar & Grille, a vibrant spot in Page, Arizona, perfect for food lovers and adventurers.
Bonkers Restaurant
49.3 km
Savor Italian and American flavors at Bonkers Restaurant in Page, Arizona, where every meal is a celebration of culinary delight.
Strombolli’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria
49.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Strombolli’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria, the perfect blend of flavor and atmosphere in Page, Arizona.
BirdHouse
49.4 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Crescent Moon Theater
46.5 km
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The RedStone Theater
46.8 km
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The Black House
46.8 km
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DJ Cody Inc
49.0 km
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El Tapatio
49.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at El Tapatio, Page's top destination for authentic Mexican cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere.
Page Shores Amphitheater
51.1 km
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Arrowhead Country Inn and Cabins
64.6 km
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Mt. Carmel, Utah
64.6 km
Explore the natural beauty and tranquility of Mt. Carmel, Utah, your perfect base for adventure in Southern Utah's stunning landscapes.
Mt. Carmel Motel and RV Park
65.0 km
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Thunderbird Restaurant
65.0 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Thunderbird Restaurant in Mt. Carmel, Utah, where hearty meals and friendly service await every visitor.
Thunderbird Resort
65.0 km
Experience relaxation and adventure at Thunderbird Resort, your gateway to Utah's breathtaking landscapes and outdoor activities.
Best Western East Zion Thunderbird Lodge
65.0 km
Experience comfort and adventure at Best Western East Zion Thunderbird Lodge, your perfect base for exploring Zion National Park and its stunning landscapes.
Thunderbird Golf Course
65.0 km
Experience the breathtaking Thunderbird Golf Course in Mount Carmel, Utah, where stunning views meet exceptional golfing for all skill levels.
Bryce Canyon National Park Sunset Point
71.2 km
Experience the stunning beauty of Bryce Canyon National Park's Sunset Point, where vibrant sunsets and unique geological formations await.
The Lodge at Bryce Canyon
71.6 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of Bryce Canyon National Park from the comfort of The Lodge, your gateway to adventure and nature.
