Emma Collins
Coyote Buttes, a breathtaking geological wonder located on the border of Utah and Arizona, is a highly sought-after destination for hikers and photographers alike, renowned for its iconic swirling sandstone formations known as The Wave. To get to Coyote Buttes, visitors must first obtain a permit through a daily online lottery or in-person drawing at the Kanab Visitor Center, as access is strictly limited to protect the delicate terrain. Once permitted, the journey typically begins from the Wire Pass Trailhead, accessible via House Rock Valley Road, a rugged dirt road best navigated with a high-clearance vehicle. From there, hikers face a moderately challenging 3-mile trek through stunning desert landscapes, following cairns and GPS coordinates to reach The Wave or other formations within Coyote Buttes North or South. Proper preparation, including sturdy footwear, ample water, and navigation tools, is essential for a safe and rewarding adventure in this remote and pristine wilderness.
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What You'll Learn
- Permits: Obtain permits through the online lottery or in-person at the Kanab Visitor Center
- Trailheads: Choose between the Wire Pass or House Rock Valley trailheads
- Navigation: Use GPS or maps; trails are unmarked and require careful route planning
- Timing: Visit during weekdays or off-peak seasons to avoid crowds and heat
- Gear: Pack water, sturdy shoes, sun protection, and a camera for the trip
Permits: Obtain permits through the online lottery or in-person at the Kanab Visitor Center
Accessing Coyote Buttes, a geological marvel with its iconic Wave formation, requires more than just a sense of adventure—it demands a permit. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) strictly limits daily visitors to protect the fragile terrain, making permits a non-negotiable requirement. You have two primary avenues to secure one: an online lottery system or an in-person draw at the Kanab Visitor Center. Each method has its nuances, and understanding them can significantly increase your chances of success.
The online lottery is the most accessible option, open to anyone with an internet connection. Applications are accepted on the BLM’s Recreation.gov portal, where you can apply for up to 12 people per permit. The lottery opens monthly, and winners are notified via email. While this method is convenient, competition is fierce, with odds often below 10%. To maximize your chances, apply for less popular months like winter, when temperatures are cooler but the scenery remains breathtaking. Keep in mind that successful applicants must pay a non-refundable fee and print their permits before arrival.
For those who prefer spontaneity or missed the online window, the in-person lottery at the Kanab Visitor Center offers a second chance. Held daily at 10 a.m., this draw allows you to apply for permits for the following day. Arrive early, as the process is first-come, first-served, and the center fills quickly. Bring a valid ID and be prepared to pay the permit fee immediately if selected. While this method requires physical presence, the odds are slightly better than the online lottery, making it a viable alternative for travelers already in the area.
Choosing between the two methods depends on your flexibility and planning style. The online lottery suits those who prefer advance preparation, while the in-person draw caters to last-minute adventurers. Regardless of your choice, remember that permits are non-transferable and must match the names of all visitors in your group. Failure to comply can result in denial of entry, so double-check your details before submitting.
In conclusion, obtaining a permit for Coyote Buttes is a critical step in your journey, and both the online lottery and in-person draw offer distinct advantages. Plan ahead, stay informed, and be persistent—the reward of witnessing this natural wonder is well worth the effort.
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Trailheads: Choose between the Wire Pass or House Rock Valley trailheads
Accessing Coyote Buttes, a geological wonder straddling Utah and Arizona, begins with a critical decision: selecting the right trailhead. Two primary options exist—Wire Pass and House Rock Valley—each offering distinct advantages and challenges. Your choice hinges on factors like hiking experience, time constraints, and the specific features of Coyote Buttes you wish to explore.
Wire Pass Trailhead: The Direct Route
For those seeking a shorter, more direct path to The Wave, Wire Pass is the preferred trailhead. Located off House Rock Valley Road, this route is approximately 6.4 miles round trip, making it ideal for day hikers. The trail begins with a straightforward hike through a narrow slot canyon, a highlight in itself, before opening into the expansive Coyote Buttes. Wire Pass is particularly popular due to its proximity to The Wave, but this popularity comes with a caveat: permits are highly competitive, with only 64 available daily through a lottery system. Plan well in advance and consider applying for both the online and in-person lotteries to maximize your chances.
House Rock Valley Trailhead: The Scenic Alternative
If you’re willing to trade a shorter hike for a more remote and less crowded experience, House Rock Valley trailhead is your gateway. This route is less direct, with a round trip of about 10 miles, but it rewards hikers with access to the less-visited South Coyote Buttes. The trail meanders through stunning sandstone formations, offering a more immersive experience in the region’s unique geology. Permits for this area are easier to obtain, either online or at the Kanab Visitor Center, making it a viable option for those who miss out on Wire Pass permits. However, the longer distance and more rugged terrain require adequate preparation, including sturdy footwear, ample water (at least 3 liters per person), and a reliable map or GPS device.
Comparing the Two: What’s Right for You?
Choosing between Wire Pass and House Rock Valley depends on your priorities. Wire Pass is ideal for hikers focused on reaching The Wave efficiently, while House Rock Valley suits those seeking solitude and a deeper exploration of Coyote Buttes. Consider your fitness level, the time you’re willing to commit, and your tolerance for permit challenges. Both trailheads require a high-clearance vehicle to reach, as the access roads are unpaved and often rough, especially after rain.
Practical Tips for Both Trailheads
Regardless of your choice, start early to avoid midday heat and ensure you have enough daylight for the return trip. Carry a topographic map and compass, as cell service is unreliable. For Wire Pass, arrive at the lottery site in Kanab well before the 8:30 AM drawing if you’re attempting the in-person permit. For House Rock Valley, verify road conditions with the BLM office, as weather can make access difficult. Finally, respect the fragile environment by staying on designated trails and practicing Leave No Trace principles.
By weighing these factors and preparing accordingly, you’ll ensure a rewarding and safe journey into the surreal landscapes of Coyote Buttes.
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Navigation: Use GPS or maps; trails are unmarked and require careful route planning
Navigating to Coyote Buttes demands precision, as its unmarked trails and vast, featureless terrain can disorient even experienced hikers. Relying solely on intuition or vague directions is a recipe for getting lost. Instead, equip yourself with a GPS device or detailed topographic maps specifically designed for this region. These tools provide critical data points like elevation changes, water sources, and key landmarks, ensuring you stay on course despite the lack of visible trails.
While GPS technology offers real-time tracking, it’s not infallible. Batteries die, signals weaken, and devices can malfunction in extreme conditions. Always carry a physical map and compass as backups. Before setting out, plot your route on the map, noting key waypoints such as rock formations, washes, or GPS coordinates. Practice basic navigation skills, like triangulation, to verify your position if technology fails. This dual approach—digital and analog—ensures redundancy and reliability in the wilderness.
The allure of Coyote Buttes lies in its untouched beauty, but this also means trails are not maintained or marked. Route planning is non-negotiable. Study the terrain in advance, identifying potential hazards like sandy patches, steep slopes, or areas prone to flash floods. Break your journey into segments, assigning estimated times for each, and share your plan with someone trustworthy. Flexibility is key; be prepared to adjust your route based on weather, fatigue, or unexpected obstacles.
For those new to backcountry navigation, consider starting with guided tours or hiring a local guide. They bring invaluable knowledge of the area’s nuances, from hidden water sources to less-traveled routes. If going solo, invest time in learning navigation techniques through courses or online tutorials. Practice in less challenging environments before tackling Coyote Buttes. Remember, the goal isn’t just to reach your destination but to do so safely and confidently.
Ultimately, navigating Coyote Buttes is as much about preparation as it is about execution. The absence of marked trails demands respect for the landscape and a proactive approach to planning. By combining GPS technology, traditional mapping, and a healthy dose of caution, you can explore this breathtaking area with clarity and purpose. The reward? A journey that’s as memorable for its challenges as it is for its unparalleled beauty.
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Timing: Visit during weekdays or off-peak seasons to avoid crowds and heat
Coyote Buttes, with its iconic Wave and otherworldly rock formations, attracts visitors year-round, but the experience can vary dramatically depending on when you go. Weekends and peak seasons (spring and fall) see a surge in tourists, turning serene trails into crowded highways. By contrast, weekdays and off-peak seasons (summer and winter) offer a quieter, more intimate encounter with this natural wonder. The difference isn’t just in crowd size—it’s in the quality of your visit.
Summer, often overlooked due to extreme heat, can be strategically navigated with early morning starts and ample hydration. Temperatures soar past 100°F (38°C) by midday, but dawn hikes allow you to explore cooler conditions and softer light for photography. Carry at least 1 gallon (3.8 liters) of water per person, wear lightweight, breathable clothing, and avoid midday exposure. Winter, while colder with temperatures ranging from 30°F to 50°F (-1°C to 10°C), offers crisp air and fewer visitors. Traction devices for shoes are essential if snow or ice is present, and layering clothing ensures comfort in fluctuating temperatures.
Weekday visits, regardless of season, significantly reduce competition for permits and trail space. The Coyote Buttes permit lottery is notoriously competitive, but fewer applicants on weekdays slightly improve your odds. Additionally, weekdays mean less traffic on the unpaved access roads, reducing the risk of getting stuck or delayed. If you’re flexible with dates, aim for Tuesdays or Wednesdays, which tend to be the quietest.
The trade-off for off-peak timing is preparation. Summer heat demands respect—heat exhaustion and dehydration are real risks. Winter requires planning for cold and potential weather-related road closures. However, the rewards are substantial: solitude, better photography conditions, and a deeper connection to the landscape. For instance, winter’s low-angle sunlight casts long shadows, enhancing the textures of the sandstone, while summer storms can create dramatic skies for unique shots.
Ultimately, timing your visit to Coyote Buttes during weekdays or off-peak seasons transforms the experience from a rushed, crowded affair to a contemplative journey. It’s not just about avoiding people or heat—it’s about aligning your visit with the conditions that best suit your goals, whether that’s photography, solitude, or adventure. Plan meticulously, respect the environment, and let the rhythm of the off-season guide your exploration.
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Gear: Pack water, sturdy shoes, sun protection, and a camera for the trip
The desert’s unforgiving nature demands preparation, and your gear is the first line of defense. Coyote Buttes’ remote location means no quick trips back to the car for forgotten items. Start with water—at least one gallon per person per day, more if temperatures soar above 90°F. Hydration bladders or sturdy bottles with insulation are ideal, as they keep water cool and accessible during the hike. Avoid single-use plastic bottles, which can rupture under desert heat and contribute to environmental waste.
Footwear is your next critical decision. The terrain alternates between soft sand, jagged rocks, and slick sandstone. Hiking boots with ankle support and rugged treads are best, but trail runners with reinforced soles can suffice for experienced hikers. Break in your shoes beforehand to avoid blisters, and consider gaiters to keep sand out. Remember, the wrong shoes can turn a breathtaking adventure into a painful slog, so choose wisely.
Sun protection isn’t optional—it’s mandatory. The desert sun reflects off the sandstone, intensifying UV exposure. Wear a wide-brimmed hat, apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or higher every two hours, and reapply after sweating or swimming in the natural pools. Lightweight, long-sleeved clothing with UPF protection is a smart addition, especially during peak hours (10 a.m.–4 p.m.). Sunglasses with UV protection are essential to shield your eyes from glare and reduce the risk of snow blindness-like conditions.
Finally, bring a camera—but not just any camera. Coyote Buttes’ swirling sandstone formations and vibrant colors demand a device capable of capturing detail and contrast. A DSLR or mirrorless camera with a wide-angle lens is ideal for landscapes, while a smartphone with a high-quality camera will suffice for most visitors. Pack extra batteries and storage cards, as the remote location means no charging stations. A small tripod can elevate your photos, especially during the golden hour when the light transforms the buttes into a surreal spectacle.
In summary, your gear should be practical, durable, and tailored to the desert’s challenges. Water, sturdy shoes, sun protection, and a camera aren’t just recommendations—they’re essentials for a safe and memorable journey through Coyote Buttes. Prepare thoughtfully, and the desert will reward you with its unparalleled beauty.
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Frequently asked questions
The best way to get to Coyote Buttes is by driving to the Paria Contact Station near Kanab, Utah, or the BLM office in Big Water, Arizona, to obtain a permit. From there, follow the House Rock Valley Road or the Big Water-Coyote Buttes Road to the trailheads, depending on which section of Coyote Buttes you plan to visit.
Yes, a permit is required to visit Coyote Buttes. Permits are available through an online lottery system or a daily walk-in lottery at the BLM offices in Kanab, Utah, or Big Water, Arizona. Plan ahead, as permits are limited and highly competitive.
A high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle is strongly recommended for accessing Coyote Buttes, as the roads leading to the trailheads are often rough, sandy, and unsuitable for low-clearance vehicles, especially after rain or snow.
Yes, Coyote Buttes North (home to The Wave) has a designated trailhead accessible via House Rock Valley Road. Coyote Buttes South has multiple trailheads, including the Paw Hole and White Crack areas, accessible via the Big Water-Coyote Buttes Road. Check your permit for specific directions.
