Near the western side of the Paria/Vermillion Cliffs Wilderness, among the picturesque Coyote Buttes, right on the Utah-Arizona state line, The Wave remains hidden, though more and more sot out. 

Approaching The Wave begins at the Wire Pass trail head which also leads to Wire Pass, a very narrow slot canyon, less than shoulder wide.  Most of the hike traverses blow-sand and sloping slick-rock.  Since a trail is mostly imaginary, landmarks serve.  The sloping route makes hike style more like a peg leg exercise.

The Wave stands off to the south 3 miles distant.  This uniquely banded, eroded sandstone feature captures the imagination of all who visit.  Entering the tiny sculpted slick-rock vale within The Wave often overwhelms perception and disorients with surreal beauty.  While I prefer Autumn and Winter visits because of the richness of the sky and low sun angle, every visit stands out with unique beauty filling my memory.

Access requires a day-hiking permit from the BLM (Bureau of Land Management).  Only 10 in-person permits are allowed each day.  This limit keeps crowds from overwhelming this most wonderful slick-rock feature.  Contact the BLM in Kanab, Utah for details: ADDRESS: 318 North First East, Kanab, Utah 84741
PHONE: (435) 644-4600

Arizona