The Wave: A Sandstone Masterpiece

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Discover the surreal beauty of The Wave, a world-famous sandstone formation in the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. Permits required.

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The New Wave

The Wave is a world-renowned sandstone rock formation located in the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, near the Arizona-Utah border. Its undulating, colorful layers create a surreal landscape, attracting hikers and photographers seeking a unique natural wonder. Access is highly restricted, requiring a permit obtained through a lottery system.

A brief summary to The New Wave

Unnamed Road, Page, AZ, 86040, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring The New Wave.

Apply for a permit well in advance through the online lottery system on Recreation.gov, as demand is very high.
Check the weather forecast and road conditions before heading to the Wire Pass Trailhead, as House Rock Valley Road can become impassable after rain or snow.
Bring at least one gallon of water per person, especially during the summer months, and wear appropriate sun protection.
Download the map provided by the BLM and consider bringing a GPS device, as cell service is unreliable and the trail is not clearly marked.
Be prepared for a strenuous hike with little shade, and allow ample time to explore The Wave and its surroundings.

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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 (a dirt road) and drive approximately 8.3 miles to the trailhead parking lot. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended, and 4WD may be necessary depending on road conditions. Check road conditions before you go. Parking at the Wire Pass Trailhead is limited. There is a fee for parking at the trailhead. As of 2023, the fee is $6 per vehicle.
Shuttle

If you prefer not to drive on House Rock Valley Road, several companies offer shuttle services from Page, AZ, or Kanab, UT, to the Wire Pass Trailhead. These services typically pick you up from your hotel or a designated meeting point and provide transportation to the trailhead. Prices vary depending on the company and group size. Lake Powell Scenic Tours offers shuttle service from Page, AZ. Contact local tour operators for pricing and availability.

Discover more about The New Wave

The Wave is a breathtaking sandstone formation in the Coyote Buttes North area of the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. Its sculpted, swirling patterns of orange, pink, and red Navajo sandstone create a mesmerizing, otherworldly landscape. Formed over millions of years by wind and water erosion, The Wave showcases nature's artistic power.Hiking to The Wave requires a permit obtained through a lottery system due to the fragile environment and the desire to limit impact. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) manages the area and issues permits through both an advanced online lottery and a daily lottery. The hike itself is a moderately challenging 6.4-mile round trip from the Wire Pass Trailhead, requiring navigation skills and respect for the desert environment.Once at The Wave, visitors can explore the unique formations, take photographs, and appreciate the delicate beauty of this natural wonder. The best time to photograph The Wave is midday when the light is most even, or during early morning and late afternoon for more dramatic shadows. Remember to bring plenty of water, sun protection, and sturdy hiking shoes.