The Wave (Coyote Buttes North) Travel Guide — Utah

Our The Wave (Coyote Buttes North) guide covers practical planning for The Wave (Coyote Buttes North) Utah — best time to visit, getting there, and what to do on the ground.

The Wave (Coyote Buttes North) Utah is a world-famous sandstone rock formation, renowned for its swirling, colorful patterns that appear to be frozen in time. This geological masterpiece, nestled within the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness, requires a highly sought-after permit to visit. Its unique beauty makes it a bucket-list destination for many, drawing adventurers and photographers from across the globe to experience its otherworldly landscapes.

Why Visit The Wave (Coyote Buttes North)

Visiting The Wave (Coyote Buttes North) is an unparalleled experience, offering a glimpse into millions of years of geological artistry. The vibrant bands of red, orange, pink, and white Navajo sandstone, sculpted by wind and water, create an illusion of fluid motion across the landscape. It's a photographer's dream, with every turn revealing new compositions of light and shadow playing across the undulating rock. Beyond its visual splendor, the journey to The Wave is an adventure in itself, requiring keen navigation skills and a spirit of exploration in a truly wild and protected environment. The limited access, allowing only 64 people per day, ensures a sense of solitude and preservation, making your visit feel incredibly special and intimate.

Who It's Best For

The Wave is best suited for experienced hikers, avid photographers, and those with a strong sense of adventure who are prepared for a strenuous, unmarked wilderness trek. The round-trip hike is just over 6 miles (9.5 kilometers) with approximately 500 feet of elevation gain, much of it over soft sand and uneven sandstone. Route-finding is a significant challenge, as there are no marked trails, requiring reliance on GPS and waypoints provided with your permit. Visitors must be in good physical condition and carry ample water (at least one gallon per person) as there are no water sources or shade along the route. It's not a casual stroll; it's an immersive wilderness experience for those who appreciate raw, untouched natural beauty and are willing to put in the effort to reach it.

Getting There & Parking

Successfully navigating how to get to The Wave (Coyote Buttes North) begins long before you hit the trail, with the critical step of securing a permit. Access to this fragile area is strictly limited to 64 people per day, distributed through two lottery systems: an advanced online lottery and a daily geo-fenced lottery.

Permit Process (2026):

• Advanced Lottery: 48 permits are issued four months in advance via Recreation.gov. You can apply for up to three different dates within your desired month. The application fee is $9 per group, and if selected, a recreation fee of $7 per person (including infants and dogs) is required. Results are announced on the first day of the following month at 9:00 AM Utah time.
• Daily Geo-Fenced Lottery: 16 permits (or 4 groups) are awarded two days before your desired hike date. This lottery is accessible only via the Recreation.gov app while you are physically present within a designated "geofence" area around Kanab, Utah, or Page, Arizona. Applications are accepted between 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM Utah time, with results announced at 7:15 PM. Winners must accept their permit by 8:00 AM the next morning. The application fee is $9 per group, plus the $7 per person recreation fee if you win.

Once you have your coveted permit, the journey to the trailhead requires careful planning. The Wire Pass Trailhead, the starting point for The Wave hike, is located about 8.3 miles down House Rock Valley Road. This unpaved road, which turns off US-89 between Kanab, Utah, and Page, Arizona, can be challenging. While often passable with a high-clearance 2WD vehicle, a 4WD vehicle is highly recommended, especially after rain, when the road can become impassable due to mud. Always check current road conditions with the BLM office before attempting the drive. Parking at the Wire Pass Trailhead is a large dirt lot, shared with hikers accessing Buckskin Gulch. A separate day-use permit is required for Wire Pass/Buckskin Gulch, costing $6 per person and $6 per dog, which can be paid at the trailhead or online. Be sure to display your Wave permit clearly on your vehicle's dashboard, as fines for unauthorized entry are steep.

Top Things to Do

The primary draw for things to do at The Wave (Coyote Buttes North) is, of course, the hike itself and the geological marvel that awaits. The 6.4-mile round-trip trek is an immersive experience, guiding you through a landscape that feels truly alien. Beyond the main Wave formation, which will undoubtedly captivate you for hours with its photographic opportunities, the Coyote Buttes North area offers several other incredible sights worth exploring with your permit.

Our team recommends allocating ample time to wander and discover:

• Fatali's Boneyard: This area features a collection of fascinating white and grey rock formations, resembling petrified bones or abstract sculptures. It's a stark contrast to the colorful Wave and offers unique photographic angles.
• The Second Wave: Just south of the main Wave, you'll find another set of undulating sandstone formations, often referred to as "The Second Wave." While smaller, it shares the same mesmerizing patterns and provides additional opportunities for exploration.
• Top Rock Arch & Melody Arch: Ascend to Top Rock, a formidable butte behind The Wave, for panoramic views and to discover Top Rock Arch, which frames the landscape beautifully. Nearby, Melody Arch is another double arch worth seeking out.
• The Alcove: This towering sandstone grotto, filled with wind-blown sand dunes, is a magnificent chamber carved by nature.
• Dinosaur Tracks: Keep an eye out for ancient dinosaur tracks embedded in the sandstone, a testament to the region's deep history.
• Wire Pass Slot Canyon: While not part of The Wave permit, the Wire Pass Trailhead is where you park. Consider exploring Wire Pass Slot Canyon itself, a short but impressive narrows with petroglyphs, either before or after your Wave hike (requires a separate day-use permit).

Remember, the beauty of the Coyote Buttes North wilderness lies in its raw, undeveloped nature. There are no marked trails beyond the initial instructions, so strong navigation skills and a good GPS are essential to fully enjoy all the things to do at The Wave (Coyote Buttes North) and its surrounding wonders.

Best Time to Visit

Choosing the best time to visit The Wave (Coyote Buttes North) can significantly impact your experience. While permits are issued year-round, certain seasons offer more favorable conditions for hiking and photography.

Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November) are widely considered the best times to visit. During these months, temperatures are moderate, making the strenuous hike more comfortable. Cloud cover is often low in spring, particularly April and May, providing excellent light for photography. Fall also offers reasonable temperatures and less crowded conditions than the peak summer months.

Summer (June-August) presents significant challenges due to extreme heat, with average daily high temperatures in July often exceeding 100°F (38°C). There is very little shade on the trail, and the risk of heatstroke and dehydration is high. If you do visit in summer, plan to hike in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun, and carry an absolute minimum of one gallon of water per person.

Winter (December-February) can offer cooler temperatures and a unique, snow-dusted landscape, though snow can make House Rock Valley Road impassable. Permits are "relatively" easier to obtain during these months. However, unpredictable weather, including hail, drizzle, and high winds, can occur. If you win a permit for winter, be prepared for cold conditions and potential road closures.

For photography, early morning and late afternoon light often enhance the colors and textures of the sandstone. If there are recent rains, ephemeral water pockets may form, creating stunning reflections.

Where to Stay Nearby

When planning your trip to The Wave (Coyote Buttes North), securing convenient The Wave (Coyote Buttes North) lodging is essential, especially given the early starts often required for the hike and the daily lottery. The two primary gateway towns are Kanab, Utah, and Page, Arizona, both offering a range of accommodations and amenities.

Kanab, Utah: Located approximately an hour's drive from the Wire Pass Trailhead, Kanab is a popular choice, particularly for those participating in the daily lottery. Kanab offers a variety of hotels, motels, and vacation rentals. Our team recommends options like La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Kanab, Comfort Suites Kanab National Park Area, Best Western Red Hills, and Hampton Inn Kanab, all of which often provide amenities like free WiFi and parking. Kanab is also an excellent base for exploring other Southern Utah attractions like Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park, making it a strategic choice for multi-day trips. Hotel prices in Kanab are typically lowest in December and highest in August.

Page, Arizona: Situated roughly an hour's drive from the trailhead, Page is another excellent option for The Wave (Coyote Buttes North) lodging, especially if you've secured your permit in advance. Page provides access to other iconic Arizona attractions such as Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend. Hotels in Page range from budget-friendly to more upscale. Popular choices include Hyatt Place Page Lake Powell, Best Western View Of Lake Powell Hotel, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Page at Lake Powell, and Sleep Inn & Suites Page at Lake Powell. Like Kanab, Page hotel prices tend to be lowest in November and highest in March.

Regardless of your chosen base, we strongly advise booking your The Wave (Coyote Buttes North) lodging well in advance, especially during peak seasons, as accommodations can fill up quickly due to the area's popularity. Many hotels in both towns are pet-friendly, which is a consideration if you plan to bring your dog (dogs require a permit for The Wave and Wire Pass).

Sample 2-Day Itinerary

Planning a trip to The Wave requires careful orchestration, especially around the permit lottery system. Here’s a sample 2-day itinerary designed to maximize your chances and experience, assuming Kanab, Utah, as your base:

Day 1: Arrival & Kanab Exploration

• Morning (6:00 AM - 6:00 PM Utah time): If you haven't secured an advanced permit, this is your window to apply for the daily geo-fenced lottery for a hike two days from now. Ensure you are within the geofence area (Kanab or Page) and use the Recreation.gov app.
• Late Morning/Afternoon: Explore Kanab. Visit the Little Hollywood Movie Museum to learn about the town's cinematic history, or head to the Best Friends Animal Society, a renowned animal sanctuary.
• Lunch: Enjoy a meal at one of Kanab's local eateries.
• Afternoon: Take a short drive to Moqui Cave, a natural history museum and cave, or visit the nearby Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park for some unique scenery and perhaps sandboarding.
• Evening (7:15 PM Utah time): Check your Recreation.gov app for daily lottery results. If you win, you must accept your permit by 8:00 AM the next morning.
• Dinner: Relax and enjoy dinner in Kanab.

Day 2: The Wave Adventure (Permit Day)

• Early Morning: Pack your daypack with at least one gallon of water per person, snacks, sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), and a first-aid kit. Don't forget your printed permit and a reliable GPS device with downloaded waypoints.
• Drive to Wire Pass Trailhead: Head out on House Rock Valley Road. Allow ample time for the drive, especially considering road conditions. Display your Wave permit and purchase a Wire Pass day-use permit ($6 per person/dog) at the trailhead.
• Hike to The Wave: Begin your hike, following the detailed instructions and waypoints provided with your permit. The route is unmarked and requires careful navigation over varied terrain, including sandy washes and slickrock.
• Explore The Wave and Surrounding Formations: Spend several hours photographing and exploring The Wave, Fatali's Boneyard, The Second Wave, Top Rock, and The Alcove.
• Return Hike: Head back to the Wire Pass Trailhead, being mindful of the heat and your remaining water supply. Sign out at the trailhead register.
• Evening: Return to Kanab for a well-deserved rest and celebratory dinner.

Is It Worth Visiting?

The question "is The Wave (Coyote Buttes North) worth visiting" is one we hear frequently. Our unequivocal answer is yes, absolutely. While the effort to secure a permit is substantial, and the hike itself is challenging, the reward is an encounter with a geological marvel unlike any other on Earth. The Wave's mesmerizing, flowing sandstone patterns are a testament to nature's artistic power, offering photographic opportunities that are simply unparalleled.

The exclusivity, with only 64 daily visitors, ensures a sense of wilderness and solitude that is increasingly rare in popular natural attractions. This limited access not only protects the delicate formations but also enhances the feeling of having discovered a hidden gem. While the journey involves careful planning, a challenging drive, and a strenuous hike, the moments spent immersed in the vibrant, swirling colors of The Wave are truly unforgettable. For those who appreciate unique landscapes, a sense of adventure, and the challenge of earning a truly special experience, is The Wave (Coyote Buttes North) worth visiting? Without a doubt, it's a bucket-list destination that delivers on its promise of awe-inspiring beauty.

Top Things to Do (Kanab Permit Area)

Even if you don't secure a permit for The Wave (Coyote Buttes North), or if you're looking to extend your adventure, there are abundant things to do in Kanab (Permit Area) and the surrounding region. This corner of Utah and Arizona is a treasure trove of red rock landscapes and outdoor activities.

Our team highly recommends these activities:

• Wire Pass Trail & Buckskin Gulch: Starting from the same trailhead as The Wave, Wire Pass offers an incredible slot canyon experience. It leads into Buckskin Gulch, one of the longest and most spectacular slot canyons in the world. A day-use permit is required ($6 per person/dog in 2026), which can be purchased at the trailhead or online. This is an excellent alternative or addition to your Wave trip.
• Coyote Buttes South: If you miss out on The Wave, consider applying for a permit to Coyote Buttes South. It offers similar, stunning sandstone formations, often described as equally beautiful, but with better permit odds. Permits are available via an online lottery three months in advance or a geo-fenced daily lottery.
• White Pocket: Located in the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, White Pocket is a fantastic alternative to The Wave, featuring surreal swirled white and red rock formations. It doesn't require a permit and is less crowded, though it does necessitate a high-clearance 4WD vehicle to access.
• The Toadstools Trail (Paria Rimrocks): An easy, family-friendly hike between Kanab and Page leads to unique mushroom-shaped hoodoos.
• Peek-A-Boo Slot Canyon (near Kanab): A beautiful, less-visited slot canyon made of red Navajo sandstone, offering an accessible slot canyon experience.
• Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park: Just a short drive from Kanab, this state park offers vast expanses of vibrant pink sand dunes, perfect for photography, hiking, and sandboarding.
• Day Trips to National Parks: Kanab is ideally situated for day trips to some of Utah's most iconic national parks. Explore the towering sandstone cliffs and emerald pools of Zion National Park, or marvel at the unique amphitheaters and hoodoos of Bryce Canyon National Park. For more ideas across the state, visit our guide to the Best Places in Utah.

These diverse options ensure that your time in the Kanab Permit Area will be filled with incredible outdoor adventures, even if The Wave remains elusive.

FAQ Longtails

The Wave (Coyote Buttes North) with kids

Hiking The Wave (Coyote Buttes North) with kids is possible, but it requires careful consideration. There is no official age limit for the permit, and children count towards the group size. The hike is strenuous, covering over 6 miles round-trip with significant elevation changes over sandy and uneven terrain, and no shade. We recommend only bringing children who are experienced hikers and can walk independently for at least half the distance. Pack plenty of water (at least a gallon per person, including kids), sun protection, and a first-aid kit. Keep the hike fun by pointing out rock formations that resemble animals. Ultimately, the decision depends on your child's endurance and your family's hiking experience. For younger children, consider a guide or exploring less strenuous, kid-friendly alternatives in the Kanab area.

best hotels near The Wave (Coyote Buttes North)

The best hotels near The Wave (Coyote Buttes North) are primarily found in the gateway towns of Kanab, Utah, and Page, Arizona. In Kanab, popular options include La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Kanab, Comfort Suites Kanab National Park Area, Hampton Inn Kanab, and Best Western Red Hills. These often offer comfortable rooms, free breakfast, and convenient access to the daily lottery location. In Page, Arizona, highly-rated hotels include Hyatt Place Page Lake Powell, Best Western View Of Lake Powell Hotel, and La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Page at Lake Powell. We recommend booking well in advance, especially for peak seasons in 2026, as rooms can fill quickly. Many hotels in both towns are pet-friendly, a plus if your dog is joining your adventure.

The Wave (Coyote Buttes North) tips

Our top tips for visiting The Wave (Coyote Buttes North) include: **Apply early and often for permits** through both the advanced and daily lotteries, as success rates are low. **Prepare for a strenuous hike** over unmarked, sandy, and rocky terrain; a good level of fitness is essential. **Carry at least one gallon of water per person** and adequate sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), as there is no shade or water on the trail. **Bring a reliable GPS device** with downloaded waypoints from your permit, as route-finding is challenging. **Drive a high-clearance 4WD vehicle** to the Wire Pass Trailhead, especially after rain, and always check road conditions. Finally, **allow ample time for exploration** beyond the main Wave to discover other formations like Fatali's Boneyard and The Second Wave.

where to stay near The Wave (Coyote Buttes North)

For where to stay near The Wave (Coyote Buttes North), your best options are the towns of Kanab, Utah, and Page, Arizona. Kanab is often preferred for those attempting the daily lottery due to its proximity to the geofenced area. It offers hotels like Comfort Suites Kanab National Park Area and Hampton Inn Kanab. Page, Arizona, is another excellent base, especially if you have an advanced permit, and provides access to other attractions like Antelope Canyon. Hotels here include Hyatt Place Page Lake Powell and Best Western View Of Lake Powell Hotel. Both towns provide a range of lodging from budget-friendly motels to more upscale options, but booking well in advance for 2026 is crucial due to high demand.

The Wave (Coyote Buttes North) parking

Parking for The Wave (Coyote Buttes North) is located at the Wire Pass Trailhead, which is approximately 8.3 miles down House Rock Valley Road. This dirt road can be rough and often requires a high-clearance 2WD or 4WD vehicle, particularly after wet weather. There is a large dirt lot at the trailhead, shared with hikers accessing Wire Pass and Buckskin Gulch. A separate day-use permit for Wire Pass/Buckskin Gulch is required for parking and hiking in that area, costing $6 per person and $6 per dog in 2026, payable at the trailhead or online. Crucially, your Wave permit must be clearly displayed on your vehicle's dashboard to avoid substantial fines.

best time to visit The Wave (Coyote Buttes North)

The best time to visit The Wave (Coyote Buttes North) is during the spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) months. During these seasons, temperatures are moderate, making the challenging 6.4-mile round-trip hike more enjoyable and safer. Spring, especially April and May, often brings low cloud cover, ideal for photography. Fall also offers pleasant weather and fewer crowds than the summer. Summer (June-August) is generally not recommended due to extreme heat and high risk of heat-related illnesses. Winter (December-February) can be cooler, with potentially easier permit acquisition, but unpredictable weather and impassable roads are risks.

Our team at Roam States believes that while The Wave (Coyote Buttes North) presents a significant challenge in terms of permit acquisition and physical exertion, the reward of witnessing this unparalleled natural wonder is immeasurable. Its delicate beauty and the sense of accomplishment from reaching it make it a truly transformative travel experience. We encourage all serious adventurers to pursue this journey, armed with thorough preparation and a deep respect for the wilderness.

Last updated: 2026-07-09 by the Roam States team.