Within the Paria Canyon Vermillion Cliffs Wilderness, lies the iconic site known simply as “The Wave”. Formally known as Coyote Buttes North, The Wave is a geologic wonder for the eyes. The hike in is approximately 6.8 miles (11 km) with around 1,215ft (370 meters) of elevation gain.

BE ADVISED: This trail requires a permit which is only available through a lottery system. The Advance lottery and a Daily lottery. For more information check the Recreation.gov website.

In order to protect the delicate sandstone, only 64 people are allowed in per day, making this hike one of the hardest permits to win. Also be advised, the penalties for hiking this area without a permit can be steep, including hefty fines and court summons. You may also be barred from applying for future lottery permits. Rangers and volunteers are out daily checking permits, so just don’t attempt to go without one.

The dirt road leading to the trailhead can be challenging in bad weather, requiring 4-wheel drive, but a 2 wheel drive vehicle can make it in good weather.

Long before you enter this area and begin hiking, you should have a map of the area and the trail downloaded, as cell service is spotty and unreliable. Upon receiving your permit in the mail, you will also receive a paper map with photos showing landmarks along the trail. Make sure to take this map with you on your hike.

The trail begins in Utah at the Wire Pass Trailhead and quickly moves into the sandy Coyote Wash. After a short hike you will find the path and official sign leading off to your right. Follow this path up the hill and across a sandy area until you see a short ridge and the Small Saddle up ahead. Continue following the sandy trail up and to the left until you reach the saddle. This part of the trail is an easy place to get lost so pay close attention to your maps.

Once you cross the saddle, continue to pay close attention to your surroundings for your return trip.

Keep hiking South with the ridge you just crossed to your right, staying parallel to it. Look for the Twin Buttes as your next landmark. Make your way toward them and cross to the right, or uphill side of the Buttes.

Your next landmark is up ahead. Look for a dark vertical crevice in a white rock formation. The Wave is located just below this crevice. Continue hiking South in roughly a straight line toward this crevice. Make your way across Sand Cove and you will reach a steep hill with deep sand. Make your way up this hill until you reach the top, follow a short wash South until you reach The Wave.

TOP PHOTOGRAPHY TIP: The Wave formation will have different shadows and light hitting it depending on the time of year and time of day you visit. Check with local guides or the rangers at the BLM (Bureau of Land Management) before you go and ask them for their advice on the best time of day to visit for great photographs.

TOP SAFETY TIPS:

• Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, especially in the hotter months. There is no water available during this entire hike.

• Wear a hat, long pants and breathable, wicking materials. Wear shoes that are comfortable and have good traction on the slick sandstone.

• In Summer start as early as possible. You can avoid much of the Utah/Arizona heat and sun.

• Know your body and your limits.

WARNING: Again, there is no water available along the entire route, so bring plenty! Download a map, and include a first-aid kit, emergency bivy and food. Cell phone service in this area is tricky, so it is advised you also bring along a GPS rescue device. (We use the Garmin Mini.) Keep in mind, if you are hurt or get in trouble***, rescue in this area could take several hours.

***During the Spring, Summer and early Fall, Arizona temperatures can still be very hot, so if attempting this hike during these times of year, it is strongly advised you start as early as possible, and bring plenty of water. Know your body’s limits and know the signs of heat stroke.

PLEASE REMEMBER: Practice Leave-No-Trace principals and try to leave the area as you found it so future generations can enjoy this beautiful place.