Winning a permit to the iconic Wave is not easy but it’s well worth the effort to get out there. It’s one of our favorite places to photograph in the Southwest and certainly qualifies as a bucket list experience!
Is The Wave in Arizona worth visiting?
Hiking The Wave in Arizona is one of the most memorable experiences of our extensive world travels to date. We’re going to explain everything there is to know about how to hike The Wave in the Coyote Buttes North area of Vermilion Cliffs National Monument.
What is the best month to visit The Wave in Arizona?
March – May. These are good months to visit, especially April and May when cloud cover is low and temperatures moderate. Getting a permits is very difficult. Average wind speed is highest in the southwest in the Spring.
Can you see The Wave in Arizona without hiking?
You won’t be able to see “The Wave” without hiking but you can certainly see the beautiful cliffs of Marble Canyon from 89A. We just drove by on our way from Page back to LA after a 2 week road trip through S. Utah. We saw so many gorgeous cliffs and canyons that a 2 hour hike did not seem worthwhile.
How hard is it to get into The Wave?
The Wave Arizona permit is one of the most difficult to get in the entire US. At that time in 2020, just 20 people per day were allowed into the wilderness area. In 2021, the number of permits issued per day increased to 64. More on that later.
Is The Wave a difficult hike?
Difficulty. The Wave hike is moderate in difficulty. The trail is 3 miles one-way in wilderness land. It’s also a low trafficked trail so you won’t see a distinct path part of the way unless there is sand or dirt.
Do you need a 4×4 to visit The Wave?
You will need an 4WD vehicle, preferably with high clearance. This road can get washed out and pretty messy so take note of the other trailhead options in case this is impassable. The BLM will provide you with a map. If you were to go right from the trailhead to the Wave it’s about 3 miles.
Do you need reservations for The Wave in Arizona?
You must have a permit to visit Coyote Buttes North (The Wave) and Coyote Buttes South. Permits are available for day use only. There is a daily limit on permits. Permits for Coyote Buttes North (The Wave) are offered through a lottery.
Is Marble Canyon the same as The Wave?
The Wave of Coyote Buttes is located in Marble Canyon. There’s a fee to enter, but the experience will be worth it. If you’re searching for more to do after visiting this geological formation, Wire Pass Trail is nearby.
How long of a hike is The Wave?
6.4-mile
The suggested route to The Wave is a strenuous 6.4-mile round-trip hike in a wilderness area which requires visitors to cross challenging terrain and use way finding skills.
What is the best month to hike The Wave?
For the best chances of winning your permit, enter the lottery in January or February, but keep in mind that during this time, the weather can be unpredictable. All in all, aim for the months between September and May to enjoy bearable weather and try your luck.
How much does it cost to go to The Wave Arizona?
$9 per application
How much does The Wave permit cost? The fee for a permit is $9 per application. You can have up to six people per application. You can connect with Arizona Republic Culture and Outdoors Reporter Shanti Lerner through email at [email protected] or you can also follow her on Twitter.
How far is Sedona from The Wave?
The distance between Sedona and The Wave is 149 miles. The road distance is 208.5 miles.
Can you get lost at The Wave?
It’s an unmarked trail in the middle of the desert. The way to the Wave is easier, the way back is a little more difficult. Some say about up to 30% in some months get lost. Get familiar with the provided map well in advance and use a GPS if you have one.
Can you wear goggles at The Wave?
Notes for the following: Nose Goggles – goggles that cover the nose are not permitted due to health and safety. Glasses – not permitted. Cover up any offensive tattoos.
Where should I stay when visiting The Wave?
The closest hotels to The Wave are in Kanab, UT. The Flagstone Boutique Inn & Suites and the Canyons Boutique Hotel are both newer boutique hotels in Kanab that are lovely places to spend a night (or even 2). If you’re traveling on a tight budget, the Rodeway Inn is probably the best value in town.
What is the hardest hike in NY?
Devil’s Path
Devil’s Path in the Catskill Mountains is the hardest hike in New York. The route is over 24 miles long and includes a variety of challenging, varied terrain. The trail takes hikers up six mountains as they ascend 7,800 feet in elevation.
What is the toughest hike in USA?
11 of the Most Dangerous Hikes in the U.S.
- Angel’s Landing, Zion National Park.
- Capitol Peak via the Knife Edge, Colorado.
- Mist Trail and Half Dome Cables, Yosemite National Park.
- Huckleberry Trail, Glacier National Park.
- Camp Muir, Mount Rainier National Park.
- Chinitna Bay, Lake Clark National Park, Alaska.
When should I hike The Wave?
It’s best to start your hike early in the morning to arrive at the Wave during midday when the formation is fully lit (this is also the best time for photos). If you’re hiking during the summer months, starting your trek at the first sun will also allow you to complete the trail before the strongest heat of the day.
How much does it cost to surf at The Wave?
90-minute beginner lessons range in price, but average about $66 for children and $80 for adults. The Wave has 6 levels, Beginner, Waikiki, Intermediate, Advanced, Advanced Plus and Expert. The Expert level comes in either Barrels or Turns. An hour of pure barrels will cost you about $80.
How many people can hike The Wave per day?
A daily maximum of 64 people are permitted to visit Coyote Buttes North. 48 people and/or 12 groups (whichever comes first) are awarded through the online lottery system. The other 16 people and/or 4 groups (whichever comes first) are awarded through the walk-in lottery, a separate process than this online lottery.