The Wave: A Sandstone Masterpiece
Hike through time and witness the breathtaking beauty of The Wave, a geological masterpiece in the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument.
The Wave is a breathtaking sandstone rock formation in the Coyote Buttes North area of the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness, straddling the Arizona-Utah border. Its undulating, multicolored layers create a surreal landscape, attracting hikers and photographers worldwide. Access is highly restricted via a permit lottery system to protect its fragile environment.
A brief summary to The Wave
- The Wave Trail, Kanab, Arizona, 84741, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Apply for a permit well in advance through the online lottery system on Recreation.gov, as demand is extremely high.
- Check the weather forecast before your hike and be prepared for extreme temperatures, especially during summer.
- Bring at least one gallon of water per person, wear sturdy hiking shoes, and use sun protection.
- Download a GPS track or map of the trail, as it can be easy to get disoriented in the wilderness.
- Respect the fragile environment by staying on marked trails and packing out all trash.
Getting There
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Driving
The Wave is accessed via the Wire Pass Trailhead. From Kanab, Utah, drive east on Highway 89 for approximately 37 miles. Turn south onto House Rock Valley Road, an unpaved road. Continue for 8.3 miles to the Wire Pass Trailhead parking lot. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended, and 4WD may be necessary when the road is wet. Check road conditions before you go. Parking is free at the trailhead.
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Hiking
From the Wire Pass Trailhead, cross House Rock Valley Road and follow the trail north into the wash. After approximately 0.5 miles, turn right at the sign indicating the Coyote Buttes North permit area. Follow the trail uphill and across a sandy field. Continue to the Wave, using a map and GPS for guidance. The hike is 6.4 miles round trip and considered moderately strenuous. Remember to bring plenty of water and sun protection.
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
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Balanced Rock
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Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness Area
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Wahweap Creek
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Discover Utah's hidden gem: hike through red rock canyons and explore the otherworldly Wahweap Hoodoos along the serene Wahweap Creek.
Lonely Dell Ranch
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Glen Canyon
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Wahweap Bay
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Great Chamber
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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
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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
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Unmissable attractions to see
Melody Arch
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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
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Toadstool Hoodoos
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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
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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
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Le Fevre Overlook
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Vermilion Cliffs National Monument Bulletin Board
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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
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Essential places to dine
Cliff Dwellers Restaurant
35.9 km
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Maharaja Indian Express Cuisine
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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
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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
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Latitude 37
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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
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Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Lotus Shop for Crystals Online Only
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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
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Family Dollar
45.8 km
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Verizon
45.9 km
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Critter Corner
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CASTLE ROCK OUTLET STORE
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Honey's Marketplace
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Lumber Plus True Value Hardware
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Thewagonwheel
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Kanab Liquor Package Agency
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Kane Co. Hospital Thrift Store
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Healing by WinGate
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Chevron
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Indian Fry Bread
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Jacob Lake Inn
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Buckskin Tavern
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Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Page Lake Powell
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Kaibab Plateau
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State 48 Tavern
49.3 km
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Blue Buddha Sushi Lounge
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Grand Canyon Brewing +Distillery
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Blue Bar & Wine
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Red Heritage- Native American Dinner Show
49.3 km
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Dam Bar & Grille
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Bonkers Restaurant
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Strombolli’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria
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BirdHouse
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Crescent Moon Theater
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The RedStone Theater
46.8 km
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The Black House
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DJ Cody Inc
49.0 km
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El Tapatio
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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
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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
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