If you’ve ever scrolled through travel photos and stopped in awe at swirling red sandstone formations that look like something from another planet, chances are you’ve seen The Wave. Hidden deep within the North Coyote Buttes of southern Utah, this natural masterpiece is one of the most sought-after hiking destinations in the United States—and for good reason.
But here’s the catch: getting there isn’t as simple as just showing up with your hiking boots. With strict permit systems, challenging terrain, and limited daily visitors allowed, planning your adventure to The Wave requires some serious preparation. Don’t worry though—I’ve got you covered.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the history, geology, permits, how to get there, what to expect on the hike, and everything else you need to know to make your dream trip to The Wave a reality.
What Is The Wave?
The Wave is a stunning sandstone rock formation famous for its colorful, undulating patterns that resemble ocean waves frozen in stone. Formed from Jurassic-age Navajo Sandstone, its swirling shapes and striations tell a story of ancient sand dunes hardened over millions of years.
Located within the North Coyote Buttes area of the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness, The Wave is both fragile and protected. This is why access is so tightly controlled.
Where Is The Wave Located?
The Wave sits on the Utah-Arizona border, technically within Utah but very close to Page, Arizona and Kanab, Utah.
- Nearest Towns: Kanab, Utah (45 miles) and Page, Arizona (47 miles)
- Trailhead Location: Wire Pass Trailhead off House Rock Valley Road
- Coordinates: 36.9955° N, 112.0069° W
Why Is The Wave So Famous?
There are a few reasons The Wave has become a bucket-list destination:
- Photogenic Beauty – It looks unreal in photos, with dramatic curves and color contrasts.
- Limited Access – Only a handful of people get to see it each day, making it exclusive.
- Adventure Factor – It’s not easy to reach, adding to its mystique.
- Social Media Hype – Once relatively unknown, The Wave exploded in popularity thanks to Instagram.
The Permit System: How to Visit The Wave
Here’s the tricky part: only 64 people per day (or 16 groups) are allowed to hike The Wave.
Types of Permits
- Online Advance Lottery
- Apply 4 months in advance through Recreation.gov.
- Extremely competitive—thousands apply each month.
- Daily Lottery (In-Person or Online App)
- Conducted 1–2 days before your intended hike via a geofenced app lottery in Kanab, Utah, or Page, Arizona.
- Great for last-minute travelers.
Tips for Winning a Permit
- Apply for less popular dates (midweek, off-season).
- Enter as a small group.
- Be flexible with your travel schedule.
Best Time to Visit The Wave
Technically, you can visit year-round, but some seasons are more comfortable than others:
- Spring (March–May): Mild temps, great for hiking, popular season.
- Summer (June–August): Brutally hot, with temps over 100°F. Risky without preparation.
- Fall (September–November): Ideal weather, vibrant colors, high demand.
- Winter (December–February): Cold but quiet, snow occasionally enhances the beauty.
How to Get to the Trailhead
The hike begins at Wire Pass Trailhead, which is accessible via House Rock Valley Road (an unpaved road).
- From Kanab, Utah: About 45 miles south, 1.5 hours by car.
- From Page, Arizona: About 47 miles north, 1.5 hours by car.
⚠️ Important: House Rock Valley Road can become impassable after rain or snow. Always check conditions before heading out.
The Hike to The Wave
Distance and Difficulty
- Round Trip: ~6.5 miles (10.5 km)
- Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous (no marked trail, navigation required)
- Elevation Gain: About 400 feet
Trail Description
- The hike begins in sandy washes and open desert.
- There are no official trail markers, only a permit map with photos of landmarks.
- Navigation can be tricky—many hikers get disoriented.
- The final stretch involves climbing sandstone ridges before reaching The Wave.
What to Expect at The Wave
When you finally arrive, it feels like stepping into another world.
- The Main Wave: Iconic rippling formation with red, orange, and yellow striations.
- Second Wave: A less-visited but equally stunning formation nearby.
- Dinosaur Tracks: Visible in some areas along the hike.
- Silence: The remoteness makes it eerily quiet—perfect for reflection.
Photography Tips for The Wave
Photographers from around the globe dream of capturing The Wave.
- Best Light: Morning or late afternoon for softer shadows.
- Tripods: Allowed, but be mindful of others.
- Overcast Days: Great for even lighting and deep colors.
- Drone Use: Prohibited (wilderness area rules).
Safety Tips for Hiking The Wave
The Wave is beautiful but can be dangerous if you’re unprepared.
- Bring Plenty of Water – At least 1 gallon per person.
- Wear Proper Footwear – Sandstone can be slippery.
- Use GPS or Maps – Don’t rely on cell service.
- Start Early – Beat the heat and avoid afternoon storms.
- Know Your Limits – The desert can be unforgiving.
Nearby Attractions
If you score a permit (or even if you don’t), the surrounding region has plenty to explore:
- White Pocket – Similar rock formations, no permit required.
- Buckskin Gulch – One of the longest slot canyons in the world.
- Horseshoe Bend (Page, AZ) – Famous Colorado River overlook.
- Antelope Canyon (Page, AZ) – Stunning slot canyon with light beams.
- Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument – Endless hiking opportunities.
Camping and Lodging
- Kanab, Utah: Multiple hotels, motels, and campgrounds.
- Page, Arizona: Another good base with plenty of lodging.
- Camping: Primitive camping available near House Rock Valley Road, but bring all supplies.
Cultural and Geological Significance
The Wave isn’t just pretty—it’s a geological wonder. Formed over 190 million years ago, the swirling rock tells the story of shifting dunes, erosion, and time. Additionally, the region holds Native American history, with petroglyphs and cultural artifacts in nearby canyons.
Rules and Regulations
To preserve the fragile landscape:
- Stick to existing trails when possible.
- No climbing on delicate formations.
- Pack out everything (Leave No Trace).
- Permits must be carried at all times.
Why The Wave Is Worth the Effort
Yes, getting a permit is hard. Yes, the hike is challenging. But when you finally stand in The Wave, surrounded by swirling sandstone that looks painted by nature’s brush, it’s impossible not to be humbled. It’s more than a hike—it’s an experience you’ll never forget.
Conclusion
The North Coyote Buttes – The Wave in Utah, USA is one of the most breathtaking and exclusive natural wonders in the world. From the intense permit lottery to the rugged desert hike, every step of the journey makes reaching The Wave feel like a true privilege.
If you’re lucky enough to get a permit, prepare well, respect the land, and take time to soak in the otherworldly beauty. After all, adventures like this don’t come around often.
FAQs
1. How hard is it to get a permit for The Wave?
Very hard—thousands apply each month, and only 64 people per day are allowed.
2. Can I hike The Wave without a permit?
No, permits are strictly enforced, and rangers check regularly.
3. How long does the hike take?
Most hikers complete it in 4–6 hours, depending on pace and time spent exploring.
4. Are kids allowed to hike The Wave?
Yes, but only if they can handle the 6+ mile hike and desert conditions.
5. What happens if it rains?
House Rock Valley Road may become impassable, and flash floods can occur in washes. Always check weather conditions.