In a sea of layered sandstone fins and swirling striations, The Wave stands as one of the most striking natural rock formations on the continent.

Its carved surfaces and kaleidoscopic tones make it feel almost alive—like liquid stone folded into the desert floor.

Far from a casual overlook, this remote wilderness hike demands planning, respect for nature, and patience in securing one of the most sought after hiking permits in the world.

What Is The Wave?

The Wave refers to a section of the Coyote Buttes North Special Management Area, part of the greater Paria Canyon Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. This dramatic sandstone formation's graceful waves of orange, pink, and white layers were sculpted over millions of years by wind and water, resulting in a landscape that feels surreal and unforgettable. What sets it apart is not just the colors or the patterns, but how remote and pristine the landscape remains—a quiet, vast desert canvas where only a limited number of hikers are allowed each day.

Hiking to The Wave isn't just about reaching a photograph—which is why most people dream about it—but about the experience of traversing shifting sandy terrain, navigating a landscape with minimal markers, and spending time immersed in quiet, expansive beauty.

Permit System: How Access Works

Because of the fragile nature of the sandstone and the high demand for access, you must secure a permit to hike to The Wave. Both advanced and last minute options are available, but neither guarantees entry.

Advance Lottery – Four months before your intended visit month, you can apply through Recreation.gov for the online lottery. Permits are limited and highly competitive. If awarded, you'll pay an additional recreation fee of around $7 per visitor after winning.

Daily Lottery – If you're already in the general area (including towns such as Kanab, Page, and Big Water), you can enter a daily lottery via the Recreation.gov app on your phone two days before your planned hike between 6 AM and 6 PM (Utah time). There's a small non refundable application fee (around $9 per group) to enter.

Limitations – No more than 64 people or 16 groups per day are permitted into the Coyote Buttes North area. Group size cannot exceed six hikers; dogs must be listed on the permit and included in the group total.

Permits are non refundable and non transferable, and there is no automated walk in ticket window at the trailhead itself. If you are caught hiking within the area without a permit, fines may be significant, and enforcement is active.

Getting There: Transportation Guide

Reaching The Wave requires a mix of mainstream travel and rugged access:

Flying In – The closest major airport is in Page (Page Airport, PGA) with connections through larger hubs. Another option is St. George Regional Airport, which is farther north but served by major airlines.

Driving to the Trailhead – From either Page or Kanab, drive along US 89 until you reach House Rock Valley Road, which leads down unpaved terrain toward the Wire Pass Trailhead (the most recommended start point). When dry, a standard vehicle typically suffices, but in rainy or wet conditions, high clearance or all wheel drive vehicles are strongly recommended to avoid getting stuck.

Trail Access – From the Wire Pass Trailhead, the hike to The Wave is roughly 6.4 miles (10.3 km) round trip, across open desert shoulder and sand; there are limited route markers, so a GPS or downloaded map is essential.

There are no developed facilities such as water, restrooms, or shelters on the hike itself, so come prepared.

When to Go & Trail Conditions

The area is technically open year round from sunrise to sunset, but your experience will vary with the season:

Spring & Fall – Often the most comfortable times for hiking, with mild temperatures and occasional breezes.

Summer – High heat and strong sun can make the exposed desert trail extremely demanding; bring at least four liters of water per person and sun protection.

Winter – Cooler temperatures may improve comfort, and demand for permits tends to dip, slightly improving odds—but snow or mud can make roads and trail surfaces tricky.

Because there is virtually no shade on the hiking route, start early in the morning to avoid peak sun and heat.

Accommodations Nearby

Since the trailhead is remote, most visitors base themselves in nearby towns with good services and proximity to permit pickup locations:

Page, AZ – A popular choice with a range of hotels and amenities.

• La Quinta by Wyndham Page – Comfortable rooms, usually around $170–$230 per night, free breakfast, and a pool—ideal for resting after a long hike.

• Courtyard by Marriott Page – Slightly higher end (~$200–$260 per night) with reliable shuttle access and modern facilities.

Kanab, UT – Another convenient base, about an hour from the Wire Pass Trailhead.

• Canyons Boutique Hotel – Mid range option (~$140–$190 per night) with a relaxed, local vibe.

• Abide Inn Kanab – Most budget friendly (~$100–$130 per night), clean and basic rooms perfect for early departures.

Because demand spikes during peak visitation seasons (spring, fall), booking well in advance is recommended.

On the Trail: What to Expect

Navigation & Terrain – The trail to The Wave is not marked like a traditional boardwalk path. The Bureau of Land Management provides a map with your permit, and hikers rely on cairns, GPS tracks, and compass bearings to stay on course.

Distance and Fitness – A six mile hike across shifting sand and uneven terrain typically takes about 3–5 hours total at an average pace. Plan time for stops, photos, and lunch at the formation itself.

Safety – With limited shade and no water sources, dehydration is a real risk. Pack sufficient supplies and let someone know your plans and expected return time.

Tips for Success

Apply Early – Enter the lottery as soon as the application period opens to improve your odds.

Stay Within the Geofence – If entering the daily lottery, you must apply while physically located within a defined area around Page or Kanab.

Plan a Backup Hike – Given the competitive nature of permits, line up another nearby hike or canyon area as an alternate.

Final Thoughts

The Wave is more than a hike—it's a lesson in patience, preparation, and appreciation for raw natural beauty. Each ripple in the rock tells a story of time and transformation, and reaching this remote setting is as much about the journey as the destination. Because access is limited, every visit feels personal, almost sacred. Whether you snag a permit on your first try or return year after year until it happens, the experience reminds you that nature's most splendid sights often require both planning and persistence. When you set foot on that sandstone and feel the vast desert around you, take a moment to absorb the silence and the light—it's a privilege few ever enjoy.