The Wave Tour: Epic Hiking Adventure Near Kanab, Utah - Kanab

The Wave Tour: Epic Hiking Adventure Near Kanab, Utah

Kanabchallenging

Difficulty

challenging

Duration

8 hours

Fitness Level

Participants should have strong cardiovascular fitness and endurance to manage a long, physically demanding hike over uneven terrain.

Overview

Embark on an 8-hour hike to The Wave, Coyote Buttes North’s breathtaking sandstone formation near Kanab, Utah. This guided tour offers an unforgettable experience through stunning desert landscapes.

Details

Discover The Wave, one of southern Utah's most spectacular natural formations, on an exclusive 8-hour guided tour. This trek through Coyote Buttes North offers an experience unlike any other, showcasing vibrant sandstone patterns that resemble crashing ocean waves molded by wind and water over millions of years. The trail is rugged and remote, demanding solid preparation and a valid hiking permit, which Coral Cliffs Tours and Townhomes of Kanab expertly help you secure. Along the way, hikers encounter diverse desert scenery including towering rock walls, narrow canyons, and expansive vistas. The physical challenge, combined with the stunning artistry of nature, creates an unforgettable outdoor journey. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or an adventure seeker looking to witness one of the planet’s most astonishing geological features, this tour delivers a rewarding and inspiring day in the wilderness. Expect warm, dry conditions and bring plenty of water, sun protection, and sturdy footwear to tackle the uneven terrain. Local guides ensure safety and share insights about the environment, geology, and historic significance of the area. The Wave cannot be accessed by casual visitors, making this guided adventure a rare chance to explore a truly iconic spot on your next Utah trip.

Adventure Tips

Bring Plenty of Water

Carry at least 3 liters of water per person to stay hydrated throughout the desert hike.

Wear Sun Protection

Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from intense sun exposure.

Prepare for Rugged Terrain

Wear sturdy hiking boots to navigate the uneven, rocky surfaces and shifting sandstone formations.

Permit is Mandatory

Ensure you have a valid permit before the tour, as access to The Wave is highly restricted.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Buckskin Gulch, a scenic slot canyon nearby
  • Wire Pass Trailhead with lesser-known sandstone formations

Wildlife

  • Desert bighorn sheep
  • Collared lizards

History

The Wave is part of the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness, a landscape shaped over millions of years with cultural significance to Native American tribes.

Conservation

Strict permit limits and guided access help preserve The Wave's fragile environment and prevent erosion or damage to the unique sandstone formations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Sunrise
Late afternoon

Best Viewpoints

  • The Wave’s sweeping curved sandstone walls
  • Narrow rock passages leading to The Wave
  • Panoramic ridge tops overlooking the desert

What to Photograph

Sandstone textures and patterns
Desert landscapes
Natural light contrasts

Recommended Gear

Hydration Pack

Essential

Keeps water easily accessible, critical for desert hydration.

summer specific

Hiking Boots

Essential

Provides support and traction on rough, rocky terrain.

Sunhat and Sunglasses

Essential

Protects from harmful UV rays during the sunny hike.

spring specific

Layered Clothing

Essential

Allows for temperature regulation amid changing desert weather.

fall specific