vermilion cliffs guided tours

VERMILION ADVENTURES

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 7 - 8 hours
• Calendar Availability: Daily / Request
• User Ages: Ages 4+
• Heart Health & Safety: You can read our Health & Safety policies here.

Available and Accepting bookings for 2021

TOUR THE VERMILION CLIFFS NATIONAL MONUMENT

The Vermilion Cliffs National Monument is 294,000-acre monument that offers beautiful sandstone, hiking, and wildlife viewing, plus a landscape of cliffs and canyons. We offer three different full-day tours of the area.

Tours depart from our office location: 22 South Lake Powell Blvd – Page AZ 86040

TOUR OF WHITE POCKET The real gem of the Vermilion Cliffs and surrounding area. Simply put, our trip to White pocket will show you the most scenic place and most unusual geology in this region. This is an 8-hour trip and you will leave having visited one of the most amazing places in all of the southwest of the US. The area of White Pocket on the Paria Plateau in Northern Arizona is very impressive indeed! While many are lured and wait their turn to visit the infamous “Wave” in the North Coyote Buttes, the “White Pocket” area to the east is seldom visited. Maybe because of its remoteness or the requirement of 4WD to access the area. The impressive White Pocket will fill the senses beyond imagination! The drive to the swirling, twisted, multicolored natural artwork is an adventure in its own right, and the exploration by foot is endless. “White Pocket” will surely become “top of the top” in the list of special places. This area has colors, shapes, and textures that are hard to beat. A trip to the White pocket is a memory of a lifetime.

Time spent will be for exploration and photography. Moderate hiking is involved, water and a sandwich is provided but we do encourage you to pack your own bag with water and items you may need while we are on tour.

Tour Duration: 8 Hours 5hrs of Total drive time (round-trip) and 3 hours on-site. We provide the transportation in our SUV(s), sit back and relax and take in the scenery.

Maximum group size 10 persons. This Tour does not include Antelope Canyon, nor does it include “The Wave.”

TOUR OF BUCKSKIN GULCH

For the avid hiker. This hike does involve steep climbing up and down sandstone – which is also known as slick rock. Please know this is a rather demanding hike, with strong legs and strong ankles required. We explore the longest slot canyon known. Granted we may not have enough time to explore all 16 miles, but with 3 hours on-site, there is much to be discovered. Lunch & water please pack your own, we have emergency rations just in case.

Buckskin is very seasonal. We mainly offer tours from May 1st to June 30th, then again from Sept 1st to Oct 31st. You’re more than welcome to submit a request outside of those days, but all tours are weather dependent, as the Buckskin is prone to flooding year-round. This tour does not include Antelope Canyon.

We have two access points, two tail heads we can start the tour from.

Middle Entry is more of a challenge: The hike begins at the elevation of 5,100 ft and we hike down to 4,000 ft, the final 200 feet involves climbing down sandstone – most can do this without the aid of ropes but we will have a rope there just in case. The hike from where we park to the actual slot canyon is 1.3 miles (one-way), so be prepared for this, especially during the hotter seasons.

Wirepass Trailhead is a bit easier: The hike is flat-level for the most part, we do have to climb over a boulder or two, and this path has a higher chance of walking through water that can be as deep as 4 feet.

Both entry points run the risk of walking through water (not so much with Middle Entry).

Tour Duration:  7-8 Hours

Hiking Distance: up to 8 miles. This Tour does not include Antelope Canyon, nor does it include “The Wave.”

North / South Coyote Buttes

If you’re able to win a permit 4 months in advance we can arrange a tour for you, prices start at 250$ before tax and tours run about 7-8 hours from start to finish. We cannot win the permit for you, there is no trick to winning, it’s all based on luck

_____________ All tours to Vermilion Require 2 or more persons. due to the terrain, we don’t recommend this tour for younger children. But if you believe your child can handle the hike, they are more than welcome, they must pay the child rate (even babies).

_____________

We are an authorized Outfitter permitted by the BLM.

RELATED TOURS

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• Calendar Daily
• Hour Glass 1 hour 45 minutes

UPPER ANTELOPE CANYON SIGHTSEEING TOUR

This experience offers you a fully guided tour into the Upper Antelope Canyon. Guided tours are required to visit this world-famous gem, so don’t miss this opportunity to take in the beauty of Antelope Canyon!

Tours run Year-Round

Vermilion Cliffs National Monument

About vermilion cliffs national monument.

Welcome to the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, a treasure trove of beauty nestled in the heart of Northern Arizona. If you're seeking unparalleled adventures and yearning for unforgettable experiences, you've come to the right place. 

This written guide, proudly presented by ROAM Outdoor Adventure Co., will serve as your North Star through this mesmerizing area, offering valuable insights and information to ensure your journey is nothing short of extraordinary. We are the pioneers in this field, renowned for our expertise in leading tours to remarkable destinations, including The Wave, White Pocket, and Coyote Buttes Hikes.

Continue scrolling to book a tour or learn more about Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, which includes The Wave, White Pocket, Buckskin Gulch and South Coyote Buttes hikes. 

The Wave HIke Guided Tour

(Permit Required)

Embark on a journey to witness one of the world's most renowned geological formations in the heart of the Southwest. The Wave hiking tour takes place near the Utah/Arizona border and promises an unforgettable experience. 

The six-mile round-trip guided hike is a bucket list item, offering a surreal landscape of sweeping rock formations and a vibrant color palette that will leave you in awe.

On this immersive hiking day tour, you’ll discover visually stunning hidden gems just off the main trail. The Wave is not just a hike; it’s an exploration of one of the best hiking tour adventures in Kanab, where the natural wonders of the North Coyote Buttes region await. 

Duration:  6-8 hours

Group Sizes: 6

Ages: 1-100

What to bring:  Hiking shoes, pants, at least 2 liters of water, snacks  

Distance:  6 miles

Permit Required: Yes

See pricing details and availability by clicking above

White Pocket Guided Tour

To hike The Wave, you must enter and win a lottery drawing, which doesn’t pan out for many people. Our ‘Better Than The Wave’ hiking tour provides an antidote–White Pocket offers an equally stunning experience with similar alien desert-scape and rock formations.

On the White Pocket hike , you’ll find the same surreal allure that made The Wave famous. White Pocket’s unique beauty is a testament to the wonders of nature, a place where you can immerse yourself in an un-Earth-like landscape. The ‘Better Than The Wave’ hiking tour is your chance to experience the magic of this region without the need for a lottery. 

Duration:  6-8  hours

What to bring:  Hiking shoes,  snacks

What's provided: Cooler with water

Coyote Buttes (South) Guided Tour

South Coyote Buttes is a hidden gem just waiting for you to discover. South Coyote Buttes boasts unique rock formations, including ‘The South Wave,’ a mesmerizing counterpart to ‘The Wave,’ located in the North Coyote Buttes. 

The surreal patterns and textures of The South Wave will leave you spellbound. Plus, this trail is dog-friendly, making it an ideal destination for anyone traveling with furry friends. Hiking in South Coyote Buttes is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the wonders of Vermilion Cliffs, where nature’s artistry knows no bounds. If you’re seeking an alternative to The Wave that promises a remarkable experience, consider exploring the hidden treasures of South Coyote Buttes.

Vermilion Cliffs National Monument Adventures

Vermilion Cliffs National Monument is a place of wonder and inspiration, where the forces of nature have crafted an awe-inspiring landscape. You'll be greeted by a breathtaking tapestry of colors and geological marvels that will leave you spellbound throughout your journey.

Covered below:

Hiking Permits in Vermilion Cliffs

Hiking with Local Guides

7   Tips for Hiking Vermilions Cliffs National Monument

Booking Your Hiking Adventure in Vermilion Cliffs 

This Northern Arizona monument boasts a diverse and ever-changing terrain, offering something for adventurers of all kinds. From rugged canyons to towering red rock cliffs and expansive plateaus to hidden slot canyons, Vermilion Cliffs promises a kaleidoscope of experiences that will both challenge and reward your sense of adventure. 

Vermilion Cliffs is aptly named, with its vibrant hues ranging from deep reds and vivid oranges, set against the blue sky backdrop. Sunrises and sunsets here are like paintings come to life, offering a feast for your senses.

You'll find some of the most iconic geological wonders on the planet here near Page, Arizona and The Grand Canyon. Towering sandstone formations, wave-like patterns etched into stone, and surreal, honeycombed landscapes create a unique playground for those captivated by the Earth's geological history.

The most iconic geological formations in the area are ‘The Wave,’ ‘White Pocket,’ and ‘Coyote Buttes.’ Hiking through these wonders unveils sculpted natural art with vibrant color palettes and landscapes so surreal they feel otherworldly–Vermilion Cliffs National Monument offers an unmatched opportunity to immerse yourself in the wonders of the natural world.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker seeking a new challenge or a first-time adventurer with a passion for the surreal, these trails promise an unforgettable experience.

Hiking Permits in Vermilion Cliffs National Monument

Securing a hiking permit for one of these locations is the first step. Permits ensure these pristine landscapes remain preserved and accessible for generations to come. 

Why Permits are Important

Obtaining permits for these hiking adventures serves a few critical purposes:

Environmental Conservation: Limiting the number of visitors through a permit system helps protect the fragile ecosystems of these unique landscapes. It ensures the delicate rock formations and pristine environments remain undisturbed.

Safety: Permits allow park rangers to monitor the number of hikers, which is crucial for safety. They can assist in case of emergencies and prevent overcrowding.

Preservation: By controlling access, permits help preserve the pristine beauty of these destinations for future generations, ensuring they remain as breathtaking as they are today.

How to Obtain Permits

Each hike has a separate permit system.

The Wave: The Wave’s permits are highly coveted and awarded through a lottery system. To secure your chance to explore The Wave, you’ll need to apply months in advance. Visit the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) website to learn more about the lottery process and application timelines.

White Pocket: No permits are required for White Pocket.

Coyote Buttes Hikes: South Coyote Buttes permits can also be obtained from the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument website . These permits are more accessible than those for The Wave, making it an excellent alternative for those seeking an extraordinary experience without the same level of competition.

Need some help with the permit process? ROAM is here to help– reach out today .

Hiking with Local Guides in Vermilion Cliffs

While exploring Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, hiking with knowledgeable local guides can be the key to unlocking a truly extraordinary experience. Our guided hikes and tours are designed to ensure your journey is memorable, safe, and enriched with insights only local guides can provide.

The Benefits of Hiking with Local Guides

Why should you choose a guided hike in the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument?

Expert Knowledge: Our local guides are season experts who possess an intimate understanding of the terrain, geology, and history of Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. They share their wealth of knowledge along the way, offering a deeper appreciation for the wonders you encounter.

Safety and Navigation: Hiking with guides means hiking with peace of mind. They are well-versed in safety protocols and can navigate the often-tricky landscapes, ensuring your adventure remains secure and enjoyable.

Access to Hidden Gems: The true beauty of these hiking destinations lies not just in the famous features but in the hidden gems tucked away in their corners. Our guides know where to find these secret treasures and will lead you to them for a one-of-a-kind experience that goes far beyond the ordinary.

Why Choose ROAM Outdoor Adventure Co.

When you choose ROAM for your guided hiking adventure, you’re choosing a company with a reputation for excellence and a commitment to delivering the best possible experiences. Our website is a treasure trove of information, awards, and rave reviews showcasing our dedication to providing top-tier tours of Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. 

7 Tips for Hiking in Vermilion Cliffs National Monument

New to hiking in rugged terrain? We’ve got you covered with these tips.

Proper Attire: Dress in layers and wear comfortable, moisture-wicking clothing, sturdy hiking boots, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect against the sun. Remember to bring sunscreen and sunglasses to shield yourself from the desert sun's rays.

Hydration and Nutrition: Staying hydrated is vital in the arid desert climate. Carry a sufficient water supply and snacks to keep your energy levels up during your hike.

Hiking Essentials: If not hiking with a guide, e nsure you have essential hiking gea r, including a map, compass or GPS, a first aid kit, and a headlamp or flashlight. A multi-tool or knife can also come in handy. At ROAM, we provided our guides ensure your safety and well-being. 

Best Time to Visit: To avoid the scorching heat of summer, plan your hike during the spring or fall when temperatures are milder. Sunrise and sunset hikes are not only cooler but also offer spectacular lighting for photography.

Know Your Limits: Be aware of your physical fitness and the difficulty level of your chosen trail. Don't push yourself beyond your capabilities, and always hike within your comfort zone.

Leave No Trace: Respect the fragile desert ecosystem by packing out all trash, staying on designat ed trails, and not disturbing the natural environment. Help preserve these stunning landscapes for future generations.

Permit Requireme nts: Remember to secure the necessary permits for your chosen hiking destination. Plan ahead and ensure you have the required documentation before your adventure.

Book Your Hiking Adventure in Vermilion Cliffs with ROAM

Don't miss the opportunity to enhance your Vermilion Cliffs hiking adventure with the knowledge and expertise of ROAM’s local guides. To embark on an adventure that combines unparalleled natural beauty with a deep understanding of the region, book a ROAM tour today .

Whether you choose ‘The Wave,’ ‘White Pocket,’ or ‘Coyote Buttes,’ your adventure awaits. Immerse yourself in the unparalleled beauty of these hiking destinations, and let the wonders of the natural world leave an indelible mark on your soul. Happy hiking!

• What is your refund policy? Full refund with within 48 hours of activity. 50% is refundable after that until the activity day. No refund given for a no-show or past 30 minutes late. $100 rescheduling fee within 24 hours.
• Do you need canyoneering or rappelling experience to do the Via Ferrata or Canyoneering trip? NOPE! You don't need any canyoneering experience to do either of those adventures! The only thing you need is some grit and love for adventure!
• The UTV's are guided, but can I still drive?" Yes! You just have to be over the age of 21 with a current drivers license. Just let your guide know you would like to drive and they will gladly accommodate!
• What do you provide on an UTV tour? Water and coolers to keep your snacks / drinks cold! We also provide helmets and googles.
• Do you do UTV rentals or just Guided UTV tours? We do not rent our UTVs. Our UTV experiences are guided which means a guide does come with you. Don't worry, they are excellent and knowledgeable about the area and also dub as your own personal photographers for the day! If you need a rental for the day checkout our Jeep Gladiators!
• What do you provide on Hiking and Canyoneering tours? Transportation to the trail entrance and a yummy lunch will be provided. Water and coolers to keep your snacks / drinks cold!
• What should we bring? ATV tours: Bring water, sunscreen, face gaitor / bandana for dust, and good hiking shoes. Each of our destinations requires a bit of hiking! Via Ferrata: Bring bug repellent for possible mosquitos in the canyon and if you'd like to climb with your phone to take photos, wear something with secure pockets or bring a carrying case that can stay close to your body. Horseback Rides: Bring bug repellent, sunscreen, long pants, and closed toed shoes. Hiking and Half day canyoneering: Bring good hiking shoes, a Hydration backpack for water or no less than 2 liters of water, and snacks. You do not want to bring a loose backpack that can potentially fall off your body while rappelling. And of course, remember to bring money to tip your guide if you love your experience!!
• How do I obtain a permit for the wave hiking tour? A permit is required to hike the Wave. You must obtain a permit before contacting us. Click here to put in for a permit.
• Are dogs allowed on your tours? Dogs are only allowed on the ATV tours
• Is gratuity added or should I tip my guide? Yes please tip your guide! If you have a good time, please show them some love with a tip. They work hard and they work for tips! Most guides have venmo as well.

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Grand Staircase Discovery Tours

Scenic and backcountry tours near Page, Arizona

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White Pocket

Buckskin Gulch

• Coyote Buttes North/South

Grand Staircase

928-614-4099

Explore With Us...

One of the most sought out destinations in the Southwest

A superb photographic destination...No permit required

An outstanding wilderness tour

Endless solitude and 2 amazing slot canyons

Scenic and Photography tours

Overnight photography adventures, paria canyon shuttle service, serving the page, az, and kanab, ut, area..

You Can Reach Us Anytime~

Current Weather

[email protected]

32 S. Lake Powell Blvd.

Page, AZ 86040

North Coyote Buttes

White Pockets Guided Tour

(435) 644-5506

South Coyote Buttes Tour

Fully Guided Tour

Photography Paradise!

Interesting Geology!

Other Paria / Vermilion Cliffs Tours

The Wave Tour

White Pocket Tour

The Amazing Sandstone Teepees Tour

Buckskin Gulch via Wire Pass

Single Travelers & Private Tours

We can always accommodate single travelers via private tours.  Often times, we are also able to combine a single traveler with other scheduled parties; please give us a call at 435-644-5506 to discuss the latter option.

Private Tours are available to be booked online.

We go out of our way to open the wonders of the West to  EVERYONE .

We are permitted, licensed, and insured.

Dreamland Safari Tours holds Special Use Permits from the  Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument ,  Grand Canyon National Park , the  Vermilion Cliffs National Monument/Paria Wilderness , Glen Canyon National Recreation Area , Kanab Bureau of Land Management, Kaibab National Forest , and  Arizona Strip Bureau of Land Management .

Don't see your preferred departure date or time available via online booking? Give us a call. 

For sunset or sunrise at our more remote locations, we recommend a scheduled or custom overnight or multi-day tour - and we are happy to work with you to develop an itinerary that meets your needs.

All listed tour durations and pickup times are approximate. Please allow 10-20 minutes of pickup time flexibility for unforeseen circumstances and varying pickup logistics. Water and snacks are provided on all tours. A lunch meal is included on all tours of 6+ hours. Vegetarian option available.

We reserve the right to fill all empty seats on non-private tours.  Cancellation / Reschedule / Weather policy applies.

Please familiarize yourself with our  FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS   before contacting us.

To contact us with other specific questions or begin Making Reservations click the " Book Now " Button on each tour page or click Contact Us  for info on how to give us a call or shoot us an email.

Like its counterpart to the North, which contains the Wave, South Coyote Buttes Tour in the Paria Canyon Wilderness is a vast expanse of colorful slickrock sandstone with lots of sand in between.

• Trip Details

Private Tour Upgrade Available?

Tour length, departure times, difficulty (1-10), recommended abilities, attractions, special interests, these faqs are specific to this tour. if you would like to view our general faqs click here ..

1. How much hiking is required on this trip? On a typical day we usually hike up to 6 miles at Cottonwood Cove. These distances vary as we can customize each trip to match the group’s physical abilities. There is a ½-mile trek through soft sand just to get to the rock formation at Cottonwood Cove. From there, we will be walking on uneven sandstone. The hike is slow paced so it is not strenuous, but there are some steep sections of stone that must be navigated. There are no actual trails at Cottonwood Cove.

2. Do I need permits to see South Coyote Buttes? Yes, permits are required. Ten permits are issued 3 months in advance and 10 more permits are issued in Kanab by a lottery system at 10 a.m. one day before you wish to hike. Learn how to get permits  HERE .

3. I am staying in Page. Where can we meet?

We offer pick-up service at any hotel, vacation rental or RV Park in Kanab, Utah, but we do not pick up in Page, Arizona. If you are staying in Page, we can arrange a meeting point halfway between Page and Kanab. Normally, this meeting point is at the intersection of Highway 89 and Houserock Valley Road, which is about 45 minutes west of Page, and is right on the way to South Coyote Buttes. Occasionally, we have to change this meeting point when the north end of House Rock Valley is muddy because that road can be a real disaster, even for our 4X4s.

If you book an 8 a.m. tour, that is the time the tour departs Kanab, Utah. We would leave at 8 a.m. and meet you at 8:45 a.m. at Houserock Valley Road. Keep in mind that Page is in Arizona, which does not observe daylight savings time. So, from spring through fall, the time in Arizona is one hour earlier than in Utah, where our company operates. So, if our tour left Kanab at 8 a.m. (Utah time) and met you at 8:45 a.m. (Utah time), this would be 7:45 a.m. in Arizona and you would need to leave Page no later than 7 a.m. Arizona time during daylight savings time, which starts sometime in early March and usually runs to the middle of November.

4. Is there a bathroom at South Coyote Buttes? There are no facilities of any kind at South Coyote Buttes. Depending on the route we take, we may stop at a flushable toilet or a pit toilet on our way there and on the way back to Kanab. Once at South Coyote Buttes, you may duck behind a tree or bush for privacy whenever necessary. All solid waste should be packed out and our guides carry WAG bags for this purpose, as well as toilet paper, hand wipes and plastic bags. Do not leave any trash on the ground. This is a wilderness area and must be kept pristine. Paper must be bagged up and can be discreetly discarded into the trash bag at the truck.

5. Are drones allowed at South Coyote Buttes? No. South Coyote Buttes is a designated wilderness area and drones are illegal.

To read more FAQs that are common to all of our tours, visit our FAQs page.

Guest Experiences on the South Coyote Buttes Tour

South Coyote Buttes (SCB) with Caitlin and Dreamland was absolutely amazing! It is seriously 2 hours of very, very bumpy off-roading to get to SCB from the Hwy 89 turn off, but it is SO worth it. From the SCB parking area, it is just a 15-20 minute walk (through sand) to get into the formations, and then it is like being in a Dr. Seuss book. You can’t even believe how amazing it is. I’ve never been to the Wave, so I can’t compare it to that, but even if the Wave is better, SCB is still mind-blowing. Even though we did this after hiking 2 days in Zion and 3 days in Bryce, it was nothing like either of those places and not in the least bit redundant. And even though there was one other guide company car in the parking lot, we didn’t see another soul while we were walking around…

Sherri M – July 8, 2018 TripAdvisor

My wife and I took a day long tour with Bailey. We can’t say enough good things about our experience. We felt secure in both her driving abilities and knowledge of both White Pockets and South Coyote Buttes. Also enjoyed the stop for cookies.

Rickv225 – May 21, 2019 TripAdvisor

Our tour guide, Orion, is an enthusiastic 30 something transplant from North Carolina with the nickname “Grizzly” assigned by his colleagues. His enjoyment at work and high energy spill over to his guests (on our trip two 30 something women from Italy and two 70 something college buddies (Alaska and Vermont) renewing a friendship). He is responsible and very safety minded. His goal is to be sure his guests have the best possible day in this area he loves.

Stewart K – April 29, 2019 TripAdvisor

We did the White Pocket / South Coyote Buttes tour, and the Peek-a-Boo / White Wave tour. Our guides on both these tours were excellent, they were knowledgeable, helpful, friendly and very personable. The lunch, drinks and snacks provided were very good. I don’t think we could have had any better tours.

Dreamer54252255082 – April 14, 2019 TripAdvisor

Great tour! We got the permit for South Coyote Butte and called Dreamland immediately to get a guided tour. Caitlyn picked us up at the hotel in Kanab and we had a great day of adventure! We enjoyed both areas – they were very different from each other–and are still talking about how much fun we had. Caitlyn had plenty of water for us because it was hot one that day. She was a lot of fun and made it a fun day, full of adventure!

Margaret V – August 10, 2018 TripAdvisor

To call the South Coyote Buttes Tour a consolation prize for Paria Canyon runners-up is a discredit to this photographer’s playground. It pulls you in with tantalizing possibilities around every rock.

The stone has been eroded by wind and water over Eons into a myriad of forms. The minerals seeping and collecting along concentration gradients give the rock its sharply defined colored layers often packed within millimeters of each other. Wander and scramble in search of the best angles amongst the vibrant striations, weird hoodoos and buttes, balancing rocks, Moqui marbles, beehives, swirls, teepees, delicate and elaborate fins, mini arches, and more.

South Coyote Buttes is broken into two main sections Paw Hole and Cottonwood Cove, accessed through deep sand roads in the Remote Paria Plateau which rests above the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. Both are remarkable for photography with never-ending compositions.  The focus of our South Coyote Buttes Tour is on the Cottonwood Cove area, as it offers the best “bang for the buck” and is amazing.  Depending on the hiking experience and interest level of your group, Paw Hole may also be visited. 

A permit is required to enter this area.   There are two ways you can try to obtain permits: 1) Online three months in advance on a first-come-first-serve basis here, or 2) You, or Dreamland may attend a walk-in lottery the day before you want to go.   Learn more about the lottery here .

The Wave Tour with Wire Pass Slot Canyon

Dreamland Safari Tours holds Special Use Permits from the  Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument ,  Grand Canyon National Park , the  Vermilion Cliffs National Monument/Paria Wilderness ,  Kanab Bureau of Land Management  and  Arizona Strip Bureau of Land Management .

Don’t see your preferred departure date or time available via online booking? Give us a call. 

For sunset or sunrise at our more remote locations, we recommend a scheduled or custom overnight or multi-day tour – and we are happy to work with you to develop an itinerary that meets your needs.

To contact us with other specific questions or begin Making Reservations click the “ Book Now ” Button on each tour page or click Contact Us  for info on how to give us a call or shoot us an email.

South Coyote Buttes is a vast and complicated area.  Our South Coyote Buttes Tour goes in at Cottonwood Cove, which offers the best “bang for the buck” and is amazing.  In fact, it is our guide’s favorite area due to the variety and quantity of formations.  A permit is required to enter this area.  There are two ways you can try to obtain permits: 1) Online three months in advance on a first-come-first-serve basis here, or 2) You, or Dreamland may attend a walk-in lottery the day before you want to go.  Learn more about the lottery here .  

The stone on the Paria Plateau has been eroded by wind and water over Eons into a myriad of forms. The minerals seeping and collecting along concentration gradients give the rock its sharply defined colored layers often packed within millimeters of each other. Wander and scramble in search of the best angles amongst the vibrant striations, weird hoodoos and buttes, balancing rocks, Moqui marbles, beehives, swirls, teepees, delicate and elaborate fins, mini arches, and more.

South Coyote Buttes Tour is broken into two main sections Paw Hole and Cottonwood Cove, accessed through deep sand roads in the Remote Paria Plateau which rests above the  Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. Both are remarkable for photography with never-ending compositions. Both can be visited on the South Coyote Buttes Tour , though we focus our attention on the Cottonwood Cove area for its vast expanse of incredible formations and colors. 

About South Coyote Buttes

Stunning, colorful and delicate sandstone formations define South Coyote Buttes, an area open only to 20 permit holders daily in the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. There are two main trailheads here: Paw Hole and Cottonwood Cove. Both are incredibly beautiful, though Cottonwood Cove is considered the more spectacular of the two sites. Paw Hole is marked by deep red sandstone teepees that rise out of the earth, while Cottonwood Cove is known for more variety in color, intricate, striped patterns in the rock and delicate sandstone ledges that break easily. Our South Coyote Buttes tour typically spends about 4-5 hours at Cottonwood Cove, though we tailor each day to the interests and hiking affinity of our guests. 

There are no actual trails at Cottonwood Cove or at Paw Hole. Our tours typically cover up to 6 miles of terrain at Cottonwood Cove. The entire South Coyote Buttes area is about 3 miles across from the north end to the south. We never cover the entire length on a tour. There is a lot to see out there.

Because there isn’t just one main feature everyone visits (like the Wave in North Coyote Buttes) South Coyote Buttes disperses other hikers. On most trips, we don’t see another person there.

South Coyote Buttes lies just south of the famous Wave, where permits are notoriously difficult to obtain. South Coyote has similarly styled sandstone buttes that are just as incredible as North Coyote Buttes, but it’s lesser-known, harder to get to, and a lot more variety.  In fact, you’ll see more variety here in a shorter hiking distance. The colorful stripes and otherworldly rock shapes provide infinite opportunity for photography. The view changes constantly. It’s really addicting to see what’s around the next corner. You will not want to leave.

Getting to South Coyote Buttes

South Coyote Buttes lies on the remote and rugged Paria Plateau in the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument in Arizona, with the Cottonwood Cove trailhead just 2.5 miles from the Utah border.

Roads on the Paria Plateau are unmaintained and are comprised of deep sand with rocky sections scattered throughout. A four-wheel drive vehicle with good ground clearance and off road tires is a must. Some experience driving in deep sand can really come in handy, especially in the summer when the sand is dry, soft and deep. We lower our tire pressure to power through the sections of deep sand. It takes almost 2.5 hours from Kanab to get to Cottonwood Cove and the road to get here is a bit rougher than the road to White Pocket.

For folks who don’t have a capable four-wheel drive truck and don’t want to hire a tour company, the Paw Hole trail is accessible by foot, via a difficult, 2.5-mile (each way) hike to the trailhead. Some folks park off House Rock Valley Road at the Lone Tree Access Point and walk up to the top of the plateau. House Rock Valley Road is usually accessible with a two-wheel drive car as long as your vehicle has a decent amount of ground clearance, and the road is dry.

We don’t really recommend hiking to Paw Hole because the hike is steep and very sandy. It’s an exhausting 2.5 miles just to get to the starting point of your South Coyote Buttes adventure. It really makes sense to maximize your time by hiring a guide who can drive you there and show you the best this area has to offer. And we’re not just saying that because we sell tours.

South Coyote Buttes Geology

Back 190 million years ago, this area was much closer to the equator than it is today. The land was a hot, dry, windy desert. South Coyote Buttes is comprised of Navajo sandstone that got its start as towering dunes back in the early Jurassic Period. As the dunes were buried under more and more sand, they became saturated with groundwater. Slowly, groundwater minerals cemented the sand grains together, turning the dunes to stone. The thin slanting lines in the rock, called cross-beds, represent the steep faces of dunes as they advanced downwind.

There are many shades of red, pink and yellow that are caused by the oxidation of iron-bearing minerals. Colorful stripes appear in the rock throughout Cottonwood Cove, as if someone dipped a brush into rainbow paint and graced the sides of the buttes with color. Pink hues in the rock often indicate the presence of hematite, while limonite appears yellow or brown.

There are several theories about how the polygonal cracks in the “brain rock” came to be, including thermal contraction, moisture cycles and drying processes of the sandy sediments and tensile forces. Similar cracks have been observed elsewhere on the Colorado Plateau, especially at nearby White Pocket.

Also scattered throughout South Coyote Buttes are Moqui marbles. The marble-like concretion has a sandstone center encased in an iron oxide shell. Scientists say iron was dissolved into ground water 50 million years ago and collected to form sphere shaped iron concretions. In 2004, two Mars rovers landed on the Red Planet and sent back images of BB sized formations similar to Moqui marbles. NASA scientists call them Martian blueberries. NASA studied Moqui marbles on the Colorado Plateau to learn how they form, wondering if this could provide evidence of water on Mars. Results are inconclusive. The Martian blueberries may have been caused by meteorites. But it’s fun to imagine a far out connection between the Arizona desert and Mars. Rock gathering here is prohibited.

Fossilized dinosaur footprints can also be found at Cottonwood Cove for those willing to venture down into a steep canyon. Toenail imprints are actually visible in the Otozoum tracks that were made by heavy, bipedal prosauropod dinosaurs that roamed this area in the early Jurassic, long before raptors, T-rex or Stegosaurus came on the scene.

Human History

Humans have probably been passing through South Coyote Buttes since the ice age when nomadic hunters wandered the expansive landscape in search of large game. The Paria Plateau is also home to Native American ruins dating back to the Pueblo Periods from about 750 A.D to 1250 A.D. Pottery fragments and arrowhead flakes can be found scattered throughout Cottonwood Cove. There is an incredible concentration of arrowhead flakes in the “museum” area of Cottonwood Cove where Native Americans may have sheltered in the canyon out of the wind and used the hard sandstone to shape chert into arrowheads.

 More recently, ranchers settled and grazing began somewhere around 1840. On the dry Colorado Plateau, ranchers often drew water from underground springs using pumps powered by windmills. One such windmill, now out of commission, can be seen at Poverty Flat between Cottonwood Cove and White Pocket. The windmill is out of commission, but ranchers still pump water from a well into a water tank on the hilltop.

An old corral still stands near a water pocket at Paw Hole. Ranchers named the area Paw Hole when they discovered horses had dug a shallow hole with their hooves where a water pocket lies just below the surface of the sand.

Grazing is still practiced on the plateau but it is not allowed in wilderness areas such as South Coyote Buttes. Congress designated the 112,500-acre Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness in 1984 to remain undeveloped and in its natural condition. When you get there we encourage you to find a quiet place. Sit down. Put away your camera. Look out across the incredible landscape and just take it in. Listen to the breeze rushing through the sagebrush. There is nothing you can see or hear that is manmade. Find peace in knowing untouched places such as South Coyote Buttes still exist. We sure do!

Dreamland Women's Adventure Award Application / Nomination

Know a woman who could use a fresh-air getaway to Southern Utah at close to no cost? Nominate her (or yourself!) today. You are welcome to nominate more than one individual by submitting multiple nomination forms. The Women's Adventure Award weekend takes place from March 1-3 2024 and includes a full-day hiking adventure with Dreamland Safari Tours, two nights of lodging, meals, and more. Adventure Award recipients are responsible for their own travel to/from Kanab and need to plan to arrive in Kanab by 4pm on the afternoon of Friday March 1.

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• Your Email * Enter Email Confirm Email

The Spirit behind the Women's Adventure Award

About the woman you are nominating.

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• Tell us about your nominee. * Why should she (you?) receive the Dreamland Women's Adventure Award?
• The IWD Adventure Award intends to recognize women who are advocates for female participation and leadership in their community, and inspire others * What example of leadership accomplishments, community involvement, or impactful projects can you share with us that will give us a better understanding of how your nominee contributes to her community?
• Optional: What impact has the nominee had on your life? If you have a personal story to share, don't hold back. If you are nominating yourself, you don't need to answer this question (unless you really want to!).

The Fine Print

• Your nominee is in good physical condition and able to hike 5+ miles in a day.
• Your nominee would enjoy a desert adventure hike among a small group of like-minded women.
• Your nominee is in a position to travel to Utah and spend Friday March 1 - Sunday March 3 2024 in Kanab (must arrive by 4pm on Friday)

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SmokyGrove - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Paria Outpost & Outfitters

Your guides to the grand staircase-escalante & vermilion cliffs national monuments, coyote buttes, and white pockets.

• ABOUT PARIA OUTPOST
• THE WAVE – NORTH COYOTE BUTTES
• SOUTH COYOTE BUTTES

WHITE POCKET

Yellow rock, sidestep canyon, vermilion cliffs, grand staircase.

• OVERNIGHT TOURS
• PHOTO WORKSHOPS
• SOAP CREEK PHOTO GALLERY
• THE WAVE – NORTH COYOTE BUTTES PHOTO GALLERY
• SOUTH COYOTE BUTTES PHOTO GALLERY

WHITE POCKET PHOTO GALLERY

• YELLOW ROCK PHOTO GALLERY
• SIDESTEP CANYON PHOTO GALLERY
• VERMILION CLIFFS PHOTO GALLERY
• GRAND STAIRCASE PHOTO GALLERY
• PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOPS GALLERY

WORLD CLASS PHOTOGRAPHY AS YOU WANDER THROUGH AN UNIMAGINABLE, ALIEN, OTHERWORLDLY LANDSCAPE!

Experiencing the fantastic geology called White Pocket is a journey onto one of the most bizarre landscapes on earth. Increasingly one of the more popular hiking and photo destinations in the area with world famous photographic opportunities.

We will hike you through the entire area, showing you all the best viewpoints and photogenic locations. We know the place very well and can guide photographers to the best shooting opportunities at the time of day for the best light.

It is easy hiking, only a 5 minute walk onto White Pocket , where you can wander for 1 to 3 miles. It’s not steep but somewhat uneven, so if you have balancing issues we recommend hiking poles.

We’re the closest to White Pocket , and it still takes an hour and forty minutes to get there in our Suburban ending up on a sandy, 4×4 high-clearance only track through the Vermilion Cliffs Monument . A trip to White Pocket with us gives you almost 2 hours more hiking time as we are located 5 minutes from the unpaved road to White Pocket as compared to a 45 minute highway drive each way from Kanab, where most tour companies operate out of.

If there’s still time in the evening we can visit an Anasazi petroglyph panel or take a scenic drive to show you a little more of the unbelievably beautiful Vermilion Cliffs .

Our knowledgable guides will provide assistance, information, explanations and advice about the entire area. There is much to see here that you can visit on your own and we’ll try to help you all we can to explain distances, road conditions, and photo opportunities to help maximize your enjoyment of the entire area.

In short, we’ll  do the very best we can to show you a great day. That is not a statement, it is a promise!

$200 + TAX per person ($220 TOTAL)

WHITE POCKET FURTHER TOUR

This tour begins at White Pocket but does not have to include it. There is a lot of hiking involved but we will take you into another area with great fins and many types of different formations including lots of “brain rocks”. No permit needed.

To book a guided photography, scenic, adventure, or hiking tour, photography workshop, overnight camp out, or make a reservation, please call or email us directly so that we can discuss your personal itinerary, in order to customize to your emphasis, interests and ability.

Call us at  (928) 691-1047 or email [email protected]

IMPORTANT RESERVATIONS MUST CHECK IN WITH US 24-HOURS BEFORE THE DATE OF THE TOUR.

MEMORY MAKING MOMENTS

Tour details.

• Driving Times: An hour and forty-five minute drive from the Outpost.
• Easy hiking. A 5 minute walk to get onto White Pocket, then hike 1 to 3 miles through all of it. Hiking can be customized to fit your abilities. It is somewhat uneven so bring hiking poles if needed.
• Hike and photograph four hours or so, with lunch out on the rocks.
• We can do a 24 hour overnight here for photographers or photo workshops, as well as a noon or so until sunset tour, same as a day tour in time duration. This might be preferable when it is really hot.
• All daytime and sunset tours are at least 8-9 hours.
• We bring lunch, water and cold drinks.
• Campouts and photo workshops are 24 hours.
• Available all year dependent upon weather and especially road conditions.
• No permit needed
• Price (same for all tours)
• Departure Times: Though somewhat flexible, departure times vary with the weather and the length of the day through the year. In spring we generally depart at 8 a.m., but when it gets really hot we recommend leaving by at least 7 a.m. or even earlier.
• Meeting Point: All our tours depart from the Paria Outpost , which is located directly on Highway 89 at mile 21 in Utah. GPS COORDINATES : 37.1075° N, 111.9109° W
• We are a thirty minute drive from Page, Arizona and a ten minute drive from Big Water, Utah. We are forty-five minutes from Kanab, Utah, and aa little over two hours from Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks. We are located right on the highway and have a big sign out front.
• What to bring: You bring a backpack to carry lunch and water, sunscreen, and your camera.

Where do the tours start? All tours start at the Paria Outpost on Highway 89 and Paria River , thirty minutes from Page, Arizona and forty five minutes from Kanab, Utah.

What should I bring? Enclosed hiking shoes, sunscreen, hat, backpack. Hiking poles if you use them. Lunch, water, and cold drinks are included.

Do I need a permit? Only in the Coyote Buttes, nowhere else is a permitted area.

How many in group size? Group size maximum is 5 clients per guide , with 10 clients and 2 guides max. We reserve the right to fill groups. If guests want “private tour” (a car and guide to themselves) they must pay for 4 seats 175×4=$700  in the car. We also have a 2 person minimum price, so if solo, cost is $350 minimum.

What time do we start? Starting times are somewhat flexible according to the heat factor as well as your preference. We can discuss this when you write or call to check in twenty-four hours or so before the tour.

Are we located in Big Water? Our mailing address is in Big Water but our business is located ten minutes or so farther down the highway toward Kanab, Utah, just across the Paria River,

How do I pay? Though we don’t take money upfront for reservations, we do not accept credit cards. We always accept cash and personal checks are fine, if from America.

In an effort to be as user-friendly as possible we do not take money up front for reservations. We put your name on our calendar and count on you to show up. Weather can be unpredictable and other factors can change your itinerary and we do not want your money, if we cannot do your tour.

TESTIMONIALS

GUIDING AS IT SHOULD BE Steve brought us (parents with adult daughter) out for a full day at White Pocket. The ride out is spectacular and Steve shared an array of information about the land and people. Steve is a masterful guide, pointing you in the direction, but then letting you discover what is around the next rock or bend. He leads from behind which is a real art! Everytime I thought “Now this is the best or most amazing view or rock formation” we would travel a little farther and I would be blown away yet again. If you stood at the parking area you would think it is an interesting place, but Steve took us into the very soul of White Pocket. Susan packed us a wonderful lunch to fuel the nearly 6 miles of walking we did. Thanks to Steve and Susan this guided experience was THE highlight of our trip. We also appreciated Steve’s recommendations for other places to visit and ways we could do some more remote exploring, which we prefer, on a future trip.

Aroundtheequator

WOODSTOCK, CT

LOOKING FOR MORE ADVENTURE? HAVE ANOTHER DAY TO SPEND WITH US?

Let us take you through the heart of the VERMILION CLIFFS out to the colorful, extremely photogenic formations of the remote, largely unvisited Soap Creek. A really great tour.

We can show you more of the remote part of the VERMILION CLIFFS , such as a hike through Pinnacle Valley, out to Middle Reservoir, the “Cowboy Hat” formation, Double Barrel Arch or see Petroglyph panels and ruins as well.

If you’re a good hiker hike the three miles or so to see largely unvisited SIDESTEP CANYON , a giant green-colored valley full of literally hundreds of balanced rocks, from 3 feet tall to 150 feet tall. Great for viewing a spectacular example of unique geology and excellent photographic opportunities.

Again, if you are a good hiker, make the short but somewhat steep climb up to YELLOW ROCK , for lovely, stunning colors and great views of the Cockscomb area.mages.

NORTH COYOTE BUTTES & SOUTH COYOTE BUTTES

The famous NORTH COYOTE BUTTES or SOUTH COYOTE BUTTES . IF you can be in Kanab, Utah at 9 a.m., try the North Coyote Buttes  Wave Lottery at the Kanab BLM visitor Center on Highway 89, or be there at 10 a.m. to try for a permit to the South Coyote Buttes, which, though less known, is easily as good or perhaps even better than the famous “Wave” that everyone wants. It’s easier to get this permit as well. However, only ten permits are available for each area per day at the Visitor Center. Permits are issued for the next day.

If you don’t want to hike much we can take you on a mostly DRIVING TOUR OF THE GRAND STAIRCASE , the COTTONWOOD CANYON ROAD and the SMOKEY MOUNTAIN ROAD are unbelievably eye-catching and photogenic, with lots of short stops and short hikes.mages.

FREE CAMPING AND RV PARKING FOR OUR CLIENTS AT PARIA OUTPOST. GREAT PORCH & RESTROOMS.

Privacy Overview

MUSEUM AND EXHIBITION CENTER: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

Coyote Buttes South Guided Tour

White Pocket Guided Hiking Tour Coyote Buttes North Guided Hiking Tour