the wave arizona helicopter tour

• PERMIT REQUIRED

The Wave Tour

Discover the iconic beauty that awaits in the heart of the northern Arizona desert

Quick Details

• User Ages: 5 Years & Up
• Hour Glass Duration: 8 Hours
• Users Max Group Size: Up to 6 People , For larger groups, please call us to book!
• Info Requirement: BLM Permit
• Check Bubble Activity: Hiking Tours

You’ll be sent a waiver to sign along with your booking confirmation.

Prepare to be Mesmerized as You Tour The Wave in Coyote Buttes, Arizona

Visitors are limited to protect this beautiful land. You MUST obtain a BLM permit before we can take you on this tour.

Now, let’s talk about The Wave. It’s a mind-blowing sandstone wonder right on the Arizona-Utah border . We’re here to hook you up with a ride to the trailhead and a savvy guide to help you conquer the desert. 

Once you’re there, it’s all about free exploration . Get lost in the smooth curves and rolling formations. Absorb the dusty reds and brilliant blue skies – it’s pure magic. Plus, our guide is your go-to for history, plants, geology and wildlife info. Let’s make this hike unforgettable!

• Chevron down What to Bring
• Make sure to bring plenty of water, a lunch, sunglasses and a hat, and good hiking/walking shoes
• North Coyotes Buttes Permit!
• Chevron down Inclusions
• 4 WD transport to and from The Wave trailhead
• A friendly & knowledgeable guide
• 8 miles of guided hiking

NOT INCLUDED

• North Coyote Buttes visitor permit
• Lunch (Please bring your own, you’re welcome to store them in our cooler.)
• Gratuity for your guide
• Chevron down Important Info
• We provide 4WD transport to and from The Wave trailhead.
• You’ll receive 8 miles of guided hiking to The Wave and the surrounding areas of North Coyote Buttes.
• You’ll need to sign a hiking waiver after booking this tour. Click here to view the waiver.
• You need a permit to take this tour . Click here to find out how to apply for one.
• This is a challenging and strenuous tour. It’s best suited to experienced hikers with a high level of fitness and health.  7 to 12 miles round trip.
• Chevron down Add-on to Wire Pass Slot Canyon

Fill your day with as much adventure and natural beauty as possible by  adding on a visit to Wire Pass Slot Canyon.  For an additional  $150  we’ll make a very worthwhile stop on our return trip and explore its famous ravines and narrow sandstone walls.  Just let us know at the time of booking  if you would like to add on this experience.

Related Activities

• Check Bubble Hiking Tours
• Users Up to 12 People , For larger groups, please call us to book!
• Hour Glass 8 Hours
• User 5 Years & Up

Alt Wave Adventure

There are so many wave formations in our region so if you aren’t successful in securing a permit for The Wave, don’t fret! Embark on an alternative tour experience, uncover hidden treasures and create unforgettable memories with this alternative option.

• Check Bubble Hiking Tours , ATV Tours
• Info BLM Permit
• Users Up to 6 People , For larger groups, please call us to book!

South Coyote Buttes Hiking Tour

Located near the Wave, South Coyote Buttes is a great alternative. Enjoy guided ATV rides to the trail-head then hike to some of the most stunning rock formations you’ll ever see. You MUST obtain a BLM permit before we can take you on this tour.

• Users Up to 5 People , For larger groups, please call us to book!

White Pocket Hiking Tour

A seemingly Alien landscape sure to impress and overwhelm the senses. Experience something otherworldly while walking across the hexagonal rock formation with underlying streaks of red swirls and waves. Eye Candy Overload.

• Check Bubble National Park Tours
• Hour Glass 8-10 Hours
• User All Ages

Grand Canyon Toroweap Overlook

The ultimate Grand Canyon View point.  Peer 3000 feet (915 meters) straight down into the belly of the Grand Canyon.  You can even hear the faint menacing roar of Lava Falls Rapids down below.

• Check Bubble Canyoneering
• Users Up to 8 People , For larger groups, please call us to book!
• Hour Glass 5 Hours , 8 Hours

Canyoneering Tours

Travel with our expert guides who have decades of experience in the canyoneering field! We’ll spend the day descending through a canyon specifically chosen to your experience level and time constraints. This tour is perfect for families!

• Our Most Popular Tour!
• Check Bubble ATV Tours
• Hour Glass 2.5 - 3 Hours

Peek-a-Boo Slot Canyon ATV Tour

Pack some serious fun and adventure into a few hours while you’re in Kanab! Race over sand trails in 2 or 4 person ATVs towards the breathtaking Peek-a-Boo Slot Canyon and learn about this special area from one of our experienced tour guides.  Similar to Antelope Canyon.

Credit: @adventr.co

A Guide to Visiting The Wave the 'Right Way'

From suggestions for how to snag a coveted lottery-only permit to tips on how to make the most of your time, here’s the scoop on everything you need to know to visit The Wave.

Hugging the Utah border in Northern Arizona, The Wave makes its home in the 112,500-acre Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness Area. The famously photographed sandstone formations of The Wave look like an undulating orange and pink landscape, a nature-made work of art rivaling the masterpieces of Van Gogh or Dali. Because of its delicate ecosystem and the difficult hike necessary to reach The Wave, visitors must have a permit — available via lottery — and strong wayfaring skills to access it.

Getting to The Wave

From Highway 89, turn south on House Rock Valley Road and drive 8.3 miles to the Wire Pass Trailhead parking lot. Although you can make it to the trailhead in a two-wheel-drive, high-clearance vehicle, the road is unpaved and minimally maintained. When it rains, you will need four-wheel-drive. Always check road conditions before you go.

The Wave is open year-round from sunrise to sunset. Generally, October through early November is the perfect time to visit since the weather is cooler with less of a chance of rain than in the spring. Snow is possible during winter, but because fewer people apply for permits then, your chances of getting one increase.

How to Get Permits

Visitors to The Wave must have a permit to access the area. Apply online four months in advance for the general lottery, or enter the daily lottery, held two days in advance. If you win either lottery, you will need to pick up your permit and maps the day before your hike and attend a safety meeting.

What You’ll Need

Bring at least one gallon of water per person, especially during the summer, and light snacks. Although the ranger’s station will provide a map, consider bringing a combination GPS and communication device since cell service is spotty.

Check the weather, and dress appropriately for the desert terrain and the season. You should wear:

• Closed-toe shoes, preferably hiking boots that can grip sandstone
• Wide-brimmed hat
• Layers, especially in the winter when it can get cold and even snow

What To Pack

A camera with a wide-angle lens (or a cell phone in wide-angle or panorama mode) is a must to capture the otherworldly orange landscape. Leave your drone at home, though. Drones are not allowed. You may also want to bring hiking poles with rubber tips to help reduce stress on your knees while trekking through uneven and sandy areas.

What It Costs

Recreation.gov charges a non-refundable $9 fee for each lottery application. If you win a permit, the recreation fee is $7 per person or dog. National Park passes do not entitle you to a discount. If you choose to hire a guide via a regional outfitter, expect to pay about $200 per person. Having a guide maximizes your time at The Wave and minimizes your chances of getting lost or hurt.

A Day at The Wave

Visiting The Wave requires a strenuous 6.4-mile hike that starts at the Wire Pass Trailhead parking lot. From there, cross House Rock Valley Road and head north through the river wash for about half a mile to the sign indicating you are entering a permitted area. The hike continues to the right. Follow the provided maps and occasional signs to The Wave. Once at The Wave, most visitors spend two or three hours exploring and taking photos. The best time of day for shadow-free pictures is midday, though early morning and late afternoon create more striking images. Before hiking out, find a scenic spot to fuel up for the return.

Where to Stay

The day before your trip, you’re required to visit the permitting office in either Kanab, Utah, or Page, Arizona. Since Page is a larger city with more accommodation options, it’s ideal for overnighting before your big adventure. Two options:

• Hyatt Place Page/Lake Powell : Boasting breathtaking lake views, this hotel gets rave reviews for its clean, modern rooms and on-site restaurant. The hotel’s adventure concierge can offer suggestions for ways to explore other attractions in the area.
• Sleep Inn & Suites Page at Lake Powell : One of the area’s newer offerings, this hotel is conveniently located off Highway 89. It features comfortable rooms and free breakfast. Book a room on the top floor for the best lake views.

If You Can’t Get a Permit

Less than 5 percent of applicants annually are drawn for a permit. If you don’t get one, you have other options. You can apply for a Coyote Buttes South permit to hike through similar — but not wavy — scenic formations. Or, you can explore nearby geological wonders such as Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon . If seeing The Wave is an absolute must and money is no object, you can charter a private airplane or helicopter out of Page Municipal Airport to take you over the formation.

Leave No Trace

The Bureau of Land Management limits the number of visitors to The Wave to preserve its unique beauty. Help these key efforts by following the Appreciate AZ guidelines and Leave No Trace principles.

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About the Author

Teresa Bitler

Teresa Bitler is an award-winning travel writer whose work has appeared in National Geographic Traveler, American Way, Wine Enthusiast, and AAA publications. She is the author of two guidebooks and a contributor to Fodors Arizona & The Grand Canyon.

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From the abundance of Saguaro cactuses and unique wildlife in the Sonoran Desert to the high country and forests of the White Mountains to the breathtaking Grand Canyon, Arizona’s regions are full of experiences that don’t disappoint.

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• The Wave Tour

The Wave* Tour

*You may book this tour as a ‘Wave Conditional Tour’ even if you don’t have permits. Simply follow the permit prompts during checkout.   

Other Paria / Vermillion Cliffs Tours

White Pocket Tour

South Coyote Buttes Tour

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.

• 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 difficult is the hike to the Wave? The round-trip hike is just over 6 miles (9.5 kilometers) if you take the most direct route to the Wave and back. Our tours typically cover about 8 miles so we can visit other spectacular sites. There are long stretches of deep sand to trudge through and an elevation gain of about 500 feet on the trek. There are a few steep inclines, loose footing, and often you will be hiking on uneven sandstone with one foot higher than the other while you hug the side of a steep sandstone ridge. Decent cardio fitness, leg strength, some amount of endurance and good balance are needed. Harsh weather is another factor to consider. This is a particularly windy spot that makes the winter chill even colder. Ice and snow make the uneven hike quite slippery. In the summer, the sun is relentless, heating the ground until the radiant heat rises from the earth while the sun shines from above. There is virtually no shade.

2. How do I get a Wave permit? In March of 2021 the BLM radically increased the number of permits issued to 64 permits for 64 people, or 16 groups, whichever comes first. 48 of those permits, or 12 groups, whichever comes first, are issued via an online lottery 3-4 months in advance.  Only 16 permits for 16 people, or permits for 4 groups, whichever comes first, are issued the day before at the walk-in lottery. All of the specifics of the permit process are explained HERE .

3. Can I book a Wave tour without a permit? Yes, you can book book a Wave tour with us even if you do not have a North Coyote Buttes permit. Our booking system will ask whether you have a permit; simply answer, “no.” We will enter the in-person lottery on your behalf the day before your trip to try to get you a permit. The odds of winning are less than 10%. If we don’t score a Wave permit, your tour will visit one of two alternates: South Coyote Buttes or White Pocket.  South Coyote Buttes also requires a permit though it tends to be much easier to get than the Wave, but if we aren’t able to secure a South Coyote Buttes permits, your trip will visit White Pocket. All three are world class hiking and photography destinations in the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument.

4. I am staying in Page. Where can we meet? We offer pick-up service to 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 the Wave.  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. Arizona time and you would need to leave Page by 7am.  Daylight savings time starts sometime in mid-March and usually runs to the middle of November.

5. Is there a bathroom at the Wave? There is a pit toilet at the trailhead to the Wave. Otherwise, there are no facilities in the wilderness area. While hiking to and from the Wave, 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.

6. Are drones allowed at North Coyote Buttes? No. North 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 Wave Tour

croderique – June 8, 2019 TripAdvisor We had a great guide, Rich. Not only did we see The Wave, but he showed several other areas we would not have even known to see. We strongly recommend using a guide service, and Dreamland is a good choice.

Seaside39985049827 – June 5, 2019 TripAdvisor We were a 4 people group (my friend and I and a couple). Steve was great at evaluating our speed and skills and adjusting accordingly. He took us through some “short cuts” were we were able to see dinosaur footprints, balanced well our time at the wave and other parts of the hike, was happy to add on wirepass into the hike, and did a good job of making sure we were all having fun and enjoying the adventure. He was fun, knowledgeable and very flexible. Great guide for a hike of a lifetime!

c0rintians – June 5, 2019 TripAdvisor We had an amazing time with Steve at the Wave. He was very knowledgeable and showed us areas of the Wave we didn’t even know about. We absolutely recommend Dreamland and Steve to anyone!

emilybeis – May 28, 2019 TripAdvisor Dreamland Safari Tours is simply excellent in all aspects. They entered the lottery for The Wave on our behalf, informed us promptly after we were lucky enough to win the lottery, and provided an unforgettable guided tour the next day. The Tour Leader, Steve, knows The Wave inside out. He was patient and courteous. He walked with us at our pace, allowing us ample time for enjoying the beauty of various scenic spots and taking photos. I would also like to mention that the sandwich provided for lunch was of very high quality. We enjoyed the tour so much.

Get the most of your Wave experience! If you are lucky enough to get your paws on a permit to hike the 6-8 miles of Coyote Buttes North and the Wave, consider The Wave Tour guided by Dreamland Safari Tours.

Until a few decades ago only a handful of people knew about the Wave in North Coyote Buttes of the Paria Canyon Wilderness on the border of Utah and Arizona. Today there is a lottery to determine who gets in. Phenomenon is the word. Nothing else does it justice.

The undulating strata and spectrum of colors found in the sandstone walls of the Wave date back to the Great Pangean Desert of the Jurassic Period about 160-180 million years ago. Wind and water erosion carves, smooths, and reveals the layers of sand left here in great dunes and then compacted and mineralized (colors) into stone. While the Wave is a smooth, polished bowl of striped wind-swept sandstone, the same exotic rock is displayed in numerous forms, shapes, colors, and patterns throughout the guided hike to the Wave in North Coyote Buttes.

With the Wave Tour you get all of the following:

• Comfortable, safe, year-round, high clearance, 4×4 transportation for up to 6 passengers on rough, unpredictable House Rock Valley Road
• A homemade picnic lunch.
• Knowledgeable tidbits about the geology, ecology, and history of the area. Guided Hiking through the easiest and most scenic routes to the neatest alternate and subtle Points of Interest including Dinosaur Tracks, Fatali’s boneyard (Lace Rocks), Sand Cove, Second Wave, Cheeseburger Rock, and other bizarre and colorful rock formations. These are areas the unguided rarely see. We do not typically go up to Top Rock or Top Arch due to time & difficulty of the ascent. We may make exceptions for very fit groups.
• Guided photography and tips at dozens of locations.
• Personal Safety – We help prepare you, keep you on track, and make sure you are safe in the Paria Canyon Wilderness. Our guides have basic Medical Training and satellite communications in case of emergency.

Elevation change, uneven footing, and sand across a long distance (typically 7-10 miles!) make the terrain on The Wave Tour difficult.  Please be prepared for hiking in difficult conditions. Daypacks are necessary especially in summer when our guide alone cannot carry enough water for everyone to safely complete the hike. Boots are highly recommended. Please carefully consider your age and physical abilities especially during the hottest months of the year: June, July, August. This tour is especially difficult in the heat.

SPECIAL PERMITS ARE REQUIRED FOR THE WAVE TOUR AT NORTH COYOTE BUTTES. DREAMLAND DOES NOT PROVIDE ADVANCE PERMITS OR HAVE AN UMBRELLA PERMIT.  ONLY OUR GUIDES ARE COVERED BY OUR PERMIT. WHEN OBTAINING PERMITS ONE DOES NOT HAVE TO ADD OUR GUIDES TO THE TOTAL NUMBER. UPON REQUEST, AND WITH AN ALTERNATE TOUR PLANNED, DREAMLAND MAY BE ABLE TO PARTICIPATE IN THE LAST MINUTE LOTTERY IN YOUR STEAD. PERMITS ARE NEVER GUARANTEED.

Wave Permits are not easy to get, but odds can vary at different times of year. To find out about everything you need to know about Wave permits and lottery strategy check out the Permits page. There are alternative tours available in case no permit is obtained – the most popular alternatives are White Pocket and South Coyote Buttes .

Want to learn more about The Wave? Check out our comprehensive blog post The Wave Tour: Everything You Need to Know .

If you’re interested in a great alternative to hiking the Wave, consider a trip to White Pocket. Read all about how White Pocket compares to the Wave in our BLOG .

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.

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.

• Your Name * First Last
• Your Email * Enter Email Confirm Email

The Spirit behind the Women's Adventure Award

About the woman you are nominating.

• Nominee's Name * First Last
• Nominee's Email Address * Enter Email Confirm Email
• Nominee's City & Country City Afghanistan Albania Algeria American Samoa Andorra Angola Anguilla Antarctica Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Aruba Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bolivia Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Bouvet Island Brazil British Indian Ocean Territory Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cabo Verde Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile China Christmas Island Cocos Islands Colombia Comoros Congo Congo, Democratic Republic of the Cook Islands Costa Rica Croatia Cuba Curaçao Cyprus Czechia Côte d'Ivoire Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Eswatini Ethiopia Falkland Islands Faroe Islands Fiji Finland France French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Territories Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Gibraltar Greece Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guam Guatemala Guernsey Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Heard Island and McDonald Islands Holy See Honduras Hong Kong Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Isle of Man Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Jersey Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Korea, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Republic of Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Lao People's Democratic Republic Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macao Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Mexico Micronesia Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Montserrat Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Niue Norfolk Island North Macedonia Northern Mariana Islands Norway Oman Pakistan Palau Palestine, State of Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Pitcairn Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Romania Russian Federation Rwanda Réunion Saint Barthélemy Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Martin Saint Pierre and Miquelon Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Sint Maarten Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands South Sudan Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Svalbard and Jan Mayen Sweden Switzerland Syria Arab Republic Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania, the United Republic of Thailand Timor-Leste Togo Tokelau Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu Türkiye US Minor Outlying Islands Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States Uruguay Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela Viet Nam Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, U.S. Wallis and Futuna Western Sahara Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe Åland Islands Country
• 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)

Thanks for your nomination!

• Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Contact Us for a Private Tour - Overnight Toroweap Photography Tour

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The Wave is a sandstone rock formation located in Arizona, United States, near its northern border with Utah. The formation is situated on the slopes of the Coyote Buttes in the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness of the Colorado Plateau. The area is administered by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) at the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument visitor center in Kanab, Utah.

The formation is well-known among hikers and photographers for its colorful, undulating forms and the difficult hike required to reach it. Due to the fragile nature of the formation and the large number of people wishing to visit it, a daily lottery system is used to dispense permits for up to 16 people and/or 4 groups (whichever comes first) two days before (visitors must apply within a geofence area encompassing the greater Kanab visitor center, Vermilian Cliffs, and Page areas). Additionally, 48 people and/or 12 groups (whichever comes first) online permits for each date are available four months in advance of a planned trip. A map and information about the hike are supplied to those who have obtained permits.

The Wave consists of intersecting U-shaped troughs that have been eroded into Navajo Sandstone of Jurassic age. The two major troughs which comprise this rock formation are 62 feet (19 m) wide by 118 feet (36 m) long and 7 feet (2 m) wide by 52 feet (16 m) long. Initially, infrequent runoff eroded these troughs along joints within the Navajo Sandstone. After their formation, the drainage basin, which fed rainwater to these troughs, shrank to the point that the runoff became insufficient to contribute to the cutting of these troughs. As a result, the troughs are now almost exclusively eroded by wind, as indicated by the orientation of erosional steps and risers cut into the sandstone along their steep walls. These erosional steps and risers are oriented relative to the predominant direction of the wind as it is now naturally funneled into and through these troughs.

The Wave exposes large-scale sets of cross-bedded eolian sandstone composed of rhythmic and cyclic alternating grainflow and windripple laminae. The rhythmic and cyclic alternating laminae represent periodic changes in the prevailing winds during the Jurassic period as large sand dunes migrated across a sandy desert. The thin ridges and ribbing seen within the Wave are the result of the differential erosion of rhythmic and cyclic alternating grainflow and windripple laminae within the Navajo Sandstone. These laminae have differing resistance to erosion as they have been differentially cemented according to variations in the grain size of the sand composing them. The soft sandstone is fragile, especially the ridges and ribbing of the Wave. As a result, visitors must walk carefully to avoid breaking the small ridges.

BLM limits access to the North Coyote Buttes Wilderness Area to just 64 permits per day. 48 of the permits are available in advance by an online lottery conducted four months before the month for which the permit is sought. The remaining 16 permits are made available by geofenced daily lottery two day's before one's intended hike. The legacy walk-in lottery has transitioned to the new Daily Lottery. While within the geofence area on a mobile device this lottery is only available by going to Recreation.gov in your browser or by installing the Recreation.gov app. Spring and autumn are the most popular times of year to visit, but the popularity of the Wave is such that the chances of obtaining a permit by either advance lottery or the day-before lottery are much less than 50% from March through November. - Wikipedia

Best Adventures Near The Wave:

FLY FISHING

Whether it's your first time fly fishing or you're a fanatic, enjoy this picturesque river with our expertly trained guide!

HORSE RIDING

Saddle up for a relaxing horse trail ride tour near  Kanab, Utah  through breathtaking  Cave Lakes Canyon.

THE WAVE TOUR

With its sweeping rock landscape and vibrant colors, The Wave hiking tour is truly a bucket list item. 

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The Wave Arizona

Private guided tours.

Award winning official tour company of TheWaveArizona.com

We believe that every traveler deserves an exceptional experience. For many, winning the Wave lottery is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.  That's why we go above and beyond to ensure that our tours are informative, engaging, and fun, allowing you to maximize this incredible opportunity*.

Why choose our private tour? 

• Pick up service from your Page, AZ area hotel/rental
• Private tour - your group only  - up to 6 people
• Packs and walking sticks if needed
• Custom GoPro Movie and media package of your experience
• Born and raised local guides
• Unlock all the "extras" in the permit area - Melody Arch, Top Rock Arch, Dinosaur Tracks, The Alcove and more!
• Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Award winner (2021, 2022, 2023)

The Wave AZ Private Tour Prices:

• $400 total for groups of 1-2
• $500 total for groups of 3-4
• $600 total for groups of 5-6

* Must already have permit for The Wave - we do not provide these for you!

Don't want a guide, but need shuttle service? -  Click Here

What to expect going to the Wave

What to expect when going on a guided tour to the Wave, Arizona with Lake Powell Scenic Tours.

Discover what our happy customers have to say!

Photo gallery, we felt like we were alone in the world we recommend 100%.

Krys2209 - Tripadvisor

Copyright © 2024 Lake Powell Scenic Tours - All Rights Reserved.

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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

VISIT THE MOST POPULAR DESTINATION IN THE ENTIRE AREA!

THE WAVE – NORTH COYOTE BUTTES TOURS

The most popular, sought after visual treasure in the entire Vermilion Cliffs-Grand Staircase Monuments . Everybody wants to see The Wave in North Coyote Buttes . And, yes we’d have to say it’s good. 

There’s also more to see in the North Coyote Buttes area, and we’ll take you to all the best stops, showing you the best of what the North Buttes has to offer. Our guides will take you to all the best photo destinations for world class photography.

It is at least a 6 mile hike with tall hills, sand, and uneven slick rock to negotiate. You must be in good physical shape to attempt this.

If you’re in an RV or the roads are bad but feel confident to do it yourself, we can provide a shuttle to the trailhead and back for $150 per group, though there are times the road is completely impassable and even we can’t do it.

Everyone remembers their day at The Wave . Our guides will make it even more memorable, sharing local knowledge and guiding you to all the best places to see and photograph in the North Coyote Buttes .

Only 20 people are allowed in the North and South Coyote Buttes per day. If you have not obtained one of the 10 permits previously available online, you can go to the BLM visitor center in Kanab, Utah for the famous North Coyote Buttes Wave Lottery at 9 a.m. There will be a lot of competition for the 10 permits that are issued for the next day.

Hiking The Wave: Trail Basics

Access to The Wave is from the Wire Pass Trailhead located in the North Coyote Buttes permit area of the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument . The moderate 6-mile hike consists primarily of sand and red rock. Part of the trail is cross-country, so you should be prepared for potentially harsh desert conditions, including fierce winds, blowing sand, and little shade.

• Trail Type:  Out-and-back
• Length:  6 miles
• Elevation Change:  +/- 400 feet
• Dogs Allowed:  Yes, for an additional $7/per dog/per day (They must be under your control at all times and you are required to pack out your waste)
• Best Season:  Spring and Fall (best weather)
• Time:  All day tour, 6 hrs minimum round trip hike
• Permit Required:  YES – see Permit Section below
• Water Availability:  None. Must carry own water – up to 4 L per person

Advance Online Lottery for The Wave

Coyote buttes north lottery schedule.

IMPORTANT: The North Coyote Buttes requires a special permit from the B.L.M. You must obtain your own permit before reserving with us for this area. SEE THE PERMIT INFORMATION BELOW.

$200 + TAX per person ($220 TOTAL)

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.

THE WAVE – NORTH COYOTE BUTTES PHOTO GALLERY

Memory making moments, tour details.

• You can go to the BLM Visitor Center on highway 89 in Kanab, Utah to try for the ten available permits for the next day at ten a.m.
• Driving Times: It is a 30 minute drive from the Outpost to the Wave trailhead.
• At least a six mile hike. For good hikers only.
• Usually 2 hours hiking each way, plan on a little more time to see and photograph other locations in the area.
• When extremely hot must be hiking at sunrise.
• All daytime and sunset tours are at least 8-9 hours.
• We supply lunch, water and cold drinks.
• You must carry water and lunch.
• Campouts and photo workshops are 24 hours.
• Available all year dependent upon weather and especially road conditions.
• PERMIT IS REQUIRED
• 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.

Bureau of Land Management – Coyote Buttes Permits Link to apply for permits

Both the North and South Coyote Buttes are limited to twenty visitors per day.

10 permits are available to try for to enter each area per day online, 4 months ahead of time for the North Coyote Buttes Wave area, and three months ahead of time for the South Coyote Buttes.

10 permits for each area are also available to try for at the BLM Visitor Center on Highway 89 in Kanab, Utah.

The Wave lottery is at 9 a.m. and the South Coyote Buttes lottery opens at 10 a.m.

Permits issued are for the next or coming day. If you are lucky enough to obtain a North Coyote Buttes Wave permit, we can take you on a great, comprehensive tour of the North Coyote Buttes, or we can give you a shuttle to the trailhead if you feel confident to do it yourself.

TESTIMONIALS

EXCELLENT GUIDE! Our trip to the Wave had been great with Dallas! He was experience and know where to bring us to see the beautiful views. We went to the boneyard, dinosaur tracks and the 2nd Wave! We had enough time to spend at The Wave and Dallas had never rush us at any points! Btw, avocado sandwich made by Susan was delicious! You can’t go wrong with Dallas and Paria Outpost! Highly recommended!

MenglembuMag

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.

Take another day to visit the increasingly famous WHITE POCKET , an other-worldly formation of brain rocks and colors. World Class and World-Famous photography. Easy hiking. images.

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

• Tour Options
• Beyond The Wave

What We offer

Guided tour, shuttle service, lake powell scenic tours, private guided tour, the full experience.

If you have successfully won the coveted permit to the Wave and would like a guided tour, you've come to the right place. ( See shuttle service for non-guided options)

• $400 total for groups of 1-2 people
• $500 total for groups of 3-4 people
• $600 total for groups of 5-6 people

Our local, professional guides can provide you with transportation, safety, historical information, local stories, and a custom media package (videos and photos) of your experience.   

You must have a valid permit from BLM (advanced or daily lottery) for the date you select. We do not provide permits!  

Times listed are Arizona time - you may request a different departure time to better suit your schedule. Alternate and extended times available by request. 

The guided tour includes:

• Pick up service from your Page, AZ area hotel/rental
• Private tour - your group only 
• Packs and walking sticks if needed
• NPS and BLM certified guide
• The drive to the trail head is approximately 1-hour from Page, AZ.
• Total tour time (including drive time) approximately 8-10 hours. Extended tours available.
• Custom GoPro Movie and media package of your experience
• Departs early morning . Custom departure times available by request
• All times are Arizona time

If you do not want a guide, but need a shuttle service to the trail head, click here

Book with lake powell scenic tours

• Must already have valid permit for Coyote Buttes North and the Wave
• Total tour time is approximately 8-10 hours and depends on weather/road conditions
• All times Arizona time
•  Alternate and extended times available by request. 

Get there safely!

 If you are going to the Wave or Buckskin Gulch, don't risk being stranded. The roads are difficult, so relax and let us get you safely to the Wire Pass trail-head for your Wave or Buckskin Gulch adventure. 

All times are Arizona time. Alternate departure times and extended times available by request.

Our private shuttle service includes:

• Pick up and drop off from your Page, AZ area hotel or rental.
• 8 total hours of service time - a typical day is approximately 2 hours of drive time to the trail-head, which then gives you up to 6 hours to hike and enjoy the Wave or Buckskin Gulch. 
• Free use of our hiking equipment if needed (small backpacks and rubber-tipped hiking sticks)
• Certified drivers

Trail-worthy off-road vehicles

Our modified and well-maintained tour vehicles are right at home on the rough and rugged trails. These vehicles are outfitted with the appropriate tires, suspension, recovery equipment, first aid kits, and more. 

We'll get you safely to the trail!

The drivers (also certified guides) are experienced in off-road navigation and certified in Wilderness First Aid and CPR. 

• $350 flat-rate 

Lake POwell Scenic tours shuttle

• Must already have valid permit for Coyote Buttes North / The Wave or Buckskin Gulch
• You will be picked up from your Page, AZ hotel/rental
• Total allotted time is approximately 8-10 hours and dependent on weather and road conditions
• All times are Arizona time;  Alternate and extended times available by request. 

The Wave Photo Gallery

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Buckskin Gulch Guided Tours

4 Guided Tours of The Buckskin Gulch.

White Pocket Guided Tour

Amazing tours of The White Pocket.

Coyote Buttes South Guided Tour

Tours of The Coyote Buttes South area.

Coyote Buttes North Guided Tour

Tours of The Coyote Buttes North area.

The Tee Pees Guided Tour

Fantastic tours of The Tee Pees.

Guided Tours of The Vermilion Cliffs

Guided Tours of The Vermilion Cliffs National Monument.

Hiked Buckskin Gulch with Grand Circle Tours. Owner Kyle was most accommodating to our many questions. Our guide Angie was so informative and tailored the hike to our desires and skills. We learned so much, had an incredible hike and saw amazing natural rock formations.

We booked a tour to White Pockets from Page, Arizona with Grand Circle Tours. Angie is a great guide. She was very organized in the logistics of the tour, and made sure everyone was safe and comfortable. She was enthusiastic and knowledgeable, and flexible with the schedule.

The famous TeePees of Vermilion Cliffs. Amazing views! Breathtaking experience! Angie was so accommodating to our group and was a wealth of knowledge. An experience we won’t forget!

Grand Circle Tours - Vermilion Cliffs

Grand Circle Tours is pleased to offer exciting and safe small group hiking and photography tours to The Vermilion Cliffs, including The Wave, Buckskin Gulch, Coyote Buttes North, Coyote Buttes South, White Pocket, and The Tee Pees. For tours of the Grand Staircase-Escalante Monument, Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon and St. George area please call or visit our other website GrandCircleTours.net for 7 additional tours.

The outstanding scenery, desert wildlife, colorful history, and opportunities for primitive recreation of Vermilion Cliffs will remain free of man's influence and be protected for future generations by the Bureau of Land Management, an agency of the U.S. Department of the Interior. Its 112,500 acres beckon adventurers who yearn for solitude, scenic splendor, and the chance to explore one of the most beautiful ecological formations in the world. The Cliffs are located in the heart of the Colorado Plateau. Nowhere will you find a comparable concentration of such varied geologic phenomena. There is more sandstone in this area than anywhere on earth, making it the number one choice for landscape photographers.

Tours to White Pocket are primarily vehicle-based, while the Coyote Buttes, Teepees, Buckskin Gulch, and Wire Pass Canyon are hiking trips.

The hikes to Buckskin Gulch, Coyote Buttes, and The Wave typically last 7 to 8 hours in total. We provide bottled water and snacks during the journey, but you can also bring your Camelback, personal food and anything else you want to bring for the day.

Grand Circle Tours is a company licensed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and has operated locally for over 20 years with safe, enclosed vehicles and fully insured guides. Our number one goal is always safety and providing an unforgettable day of nature and photography. Each of our trips will be small groups to ensure a personal experience. We currently offer VIP custom trips to any of the areas mentioned on our site. These are available upon request. Vermilion Cliffs casts a spell, not unlike Sedona with astounding views of golden and red sandstone known throughout the Colorado Plateau. It’s a powerful experience not to be missed. Don’t forget to slow down and enjoy! Thanks for your consideration.

Book your Dream Adventure Now!

Grand Circle Tours offers exclusive hiking tours of The Vermilion Cliffs National Monument.

or Call +1 928-691-0166

This is an all-day canyon hike with the option to venture out of the wash and onto rock formations that rival The Wave and White Pockets. Tour Details ->

This section of Buckskin is the right choice if you're looking for slot canyons with excellent light for photography. Tour Details ->

This tour requires navigating down into the Gulch revealing views of White Pockets, North & South Coyote Buttes, and large parts of the Buckskin itself. Tour Details ->

This is a combined hike to both the Wire Pass and Buckskin trailheads, providing an epic day of desert slot canyon hiking. Tour Details ->

The White Pocket guided tour in the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument is the go-to spot for the serious photographer. Tour Details ->

This tour requires a much shorter hike than the North tour and is considerably more varied from a photographer’s point of view. Tour Details ->

The Wave, located in the Coyote Buttes North tour, is a world-famous destination. Permit required. Tour Details ->

Hiking to the Teepee formation is an excellent hike in spring, fall, and winter. Tour Details ->

11 Additional Tours at GreaterZionTours.net

Visit our other website, GreaterZionTours.net, for tours of Zion National Park.

7 Additional Tours at GrandCircleTours.net

Visit our other website, GrandCircleTours.net, for additional tours and different locations.

Tower Butte Landing with Horseshoe Bend Helicopter Tour

Papillon is the only helicopter operator permitted by the Navajo Nation to land at the more than 5,000-foot-tall Tower Butte.

Aboard this Tower Butte helicopter tour, you'll land on the top, have time for exploration, and then fly over Horseshoe Bend before returning to Page Airport.

• Departing From: Page/Antelope Canyon
• Destination: Page/Antelope Canyon
• Duration: Approximately 45-50 minutes
• Product Code: ppht-2

This exhilarating helicopter tour takes you nearly a mile above sea level to the top of Tower Butte, an incredible natural landform rising from the desert, resembling a stone skyscraper. You'll see sights of Lake Powell, Glen Canyon Dam, Horseshoe Bend, Padre Bay, Grand Staircase Escalante, and many other sights perfect for photo moments atop this unique flat-topped rock tower. The incredible 360-degree panoramic view is unlike anything else in the area. Before the return flight, you'll enjoy approximately 20 minutes of exploration ​time and photo opportunities atop Tower Butte. The tour continues on your scenic aerial flight back to Page Municipal Airport, where you'll fly over Horseshoe Bend, the world-famous circular curve in the Colorado River - a social media bucket list photo!

Tour Highlights

• Landing atop Tower Butte
• Aerial views of Lake Powell, Glen Canyon Dam, and Horseshoe Bend
• Oversize windows and stadium seating for viewing
• Helicopter Tour
• Flight Duration: Approximately 30 minutes
• Tour Duration: Approximately 45-50 minutes
• All passengers must check in at the Page Municipal Airport 30 minutes before the flight time.

Optional Tower Butte Landing with Horseshoe Bend Upgrades

* Upgrade options are available for selection during checkout

Make Aircraft Private

Reserve an entire helicopter to land on top of Tower Butte and fly over Horseshoe Bend. This VIP experience offers you and your party an exclusive private helicopter with up to 6 passengers per aircraft.

Tower Butte Landing with Horseshoe Bend FAQs

Tower Butte is a 5,287-foot sandstone summit located south of Lake Powell in northern Arizona on Navajo Nation land. It towers over 1,000 feet tall and resembles a massive stone skyscraper emerging from the desert terrain. Tower Butte is an iconic landmark in Page, AZ, and a popular photography point.

Horseshoe Bend Air Tour guests fly in an EcoStar EC-130 helicopter. These are the most state-of-the-art, comfortable, and environmentally friendly helicopters available for the aerial tourism industry. The EC-130 helicopters feature large windows with nearly 180-degree views, forward-facing stadium-raised seating, and noise-canceling headsets.

Guests aboard the Tower Butte Landing with Horseshoe Bend Helicopter Tour will depart from the Page, Arizona, airport for an approximately 45-50 minute helicopter tour. Guests land atop Tower Butte for about 20 minutes. The flight duration is approximately 30 minutes.

Please note: this is an air tour only over Horseshoe Bend, and guests do not land at Horseshoe Bend.

Similar Tours

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Helicopter tours in arizona.

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• Up to 1 hour
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• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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• Likely to Sell Out

• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Helicopter Tour of the North Canyon with Optional Hummer Excursion

2. 45-minute Helicopter Flight Over the Grand Canyon from Tusayan, Arizona

3. Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour with Eagle Point Rim Landing

4. Extended Grand Canyon West Rim Air-Only Helicopter Tour

5. 25-min Grand Canyon South Rim EcoStar Helicopter Tour with Optional Hummer

6. 20-Minute Grand Canyon Helicopter Flight with Optional Upgrades

7. Sedona Helicopter Tour : Dust Devil Tour

8. Canyon Panorama Helicopter Tour

9. Grand Canyon West Rim by Coach with Meals and Helicopter Tour

10. Grand Canyon Sunset Helicopter Tour from Las Vegas

11. Grand Canyon West Helicopter Tour from Las Vegas with Optional Skywalk

12. 30 mile Heli tour through the canyons and see ancient ruins!

13. Sedona Helicopter Tour: Desert Thunder Tour

14. Arizona Desert Helicopter Tour Including Tower Butte Landing

15. 80 mile Heli tour: EPIC panoramas, canyons, and ancient ruins!

16. Grand Canyon West Rim Small-Group Tour with Helicopter Upgrade

17. Grand Canyon Helicopter Flight with Colorado River Float or Kayak

18. Grand Canyon West Rim Aerial Tour by Helicopter

19. Grand Canyon Helicopter Flight with Sunset Valley of Fire Landing

20. 45-minute Hog Wild Doors On Helicopter Tour

21. Grand Canyon West Rim by Helicopter from Las Vegas

22. Grand Celebration Helicopter Tour with Black Canyon Rafting

23. Grand Canyon West Rim Cabin and Helicopter Tour from Las Vegas

24. Grand Canyon West Rim by Plane with Optional Helicopter & Skywalk

25. 25-minute Grand Canyon Dancer Helicopter Tour from Tusayan, Arizona

26. Sedona Helicopter Tour: Wild West Tour

27. Grand Canyon Helicopter Flight and Guided Kayak Tour

28. 45 mile EPIC Heli Tour through canyons viewing ancient ruins+more

29. Grand Canyon West Helicopter Tour with VIP Skywalk and Boat Ride

30. Horseshoe Bend Helicopter Flight from Page

What travelers are saying.

Arizona Bucket List: The Wave, AZ

One of the most highly sought hiking permits in the American Southwest is for the Wave, AZ, located about 40 minutes west of Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon. This bucket list item attracts people from all over the world, with well over a thousand people a day applying for just 20 permits, which will increase to 64 daily permits as of February 2021. How to get a Wave Permit

There are some advantages to being a local, and one of those is that I can run over to Kanab and enter the lottery in the dead of winter and try to get one of the 32 daily permits (the other 32 being available  online  months in advance.) This used to be the way to get a higher chance because of the lower crowds during off-season, but no longer. This last Feb, with heavy snow on the forecast every other day, there was still over 200 people milling around the Kanab Center Gymnasium before the 9am drawing.

During winter hours, the Friday drawing is special because they draw for Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. 30 permits drawn on the same day swells the number of hopeful applicants and the anticipation to Walmart Black Friday doorbuster levels.

I had applied for 3 people, and by 9:12AM they had drawn 29 people. My number was drawn for the very last spot and I tried to avoid making eye contact with the many people I knew had traveled thousands of miles for that same chance. To make this opportunity even more rare, the rangers are authorized to increase the number of permits by one person if the last winner applied as a group, so as to discourage solo hikers. All I needed to do was to decide which friend I liked more.

And so on that chilly morning of Feb 6, 2017, there were 21 people who hiked to the Wave, Arizona. For more information check out https://thewaveaz.com

• If you apply as a solo hiker and you draw the last permit you don’t get to decide to bring a friend. If you apply as a group they will let you bring 1 person so you’re not hiking alone. Or you can refuse the permit and maintain your friendships.
• During winter months, the Convention Center is closed on the weekends, so they draw permits for Sat, Sun, Mon on Friday. All other days are normal; permits are drawn at 9am for the next day.
• The road to the trailhead can be extremely difficult to drive on if it has recently rained or snowed.  Hire A Guide To The Wave  or  Fly Over The Wave
• There is little to no reception, and people have died on this hike.
• As with all desert hikes in the area, get a really early start during summer months.
• The two closest cities are Kanab, UT, and Page, AZ, but AZ does not follow daylight savings, so check time difference.
• Bring exact change in cash! $9 a person

38 Responses

• Pingback: #8 day hike – The Wave, Arizona USA - Hikerstore

Hey Alley Great content on this website! I am hoping to get through the walk in lottery for the Wave in December. Now I know that they pick the lottery numbers for Saturday, Sunday and Monday on Friday the week prior. Do we then have to fill 3 applications (1 each for the 3 days) or they pick 30 numbers for Sat, Sun and Monday by default from the numbers on Friday? Also, do I have to specify that I would like a chance on all 3 days on Friday in the application? If we are 2 people, can my friend and I both fill an application for 2 people?

Hi Anuja, We wish you the best of luck at the walk-in lottery for The Wave. You’ll need it, but I think you know that already! To my knowledge, you wouldn’t have to fill out separate applications for each day you wish to hike if you’re doing the walk-in lottery on a Friday in December. You’d simply let the on-duty ranger know that you would like to carry over your entry through the weekend. However, be sure to ask the ranger at the Grand Staircase Visitor Center how best to proceed. They are the ultimate authority on the process, and the rules for taking part. As for both you and your hiking companion filling out separate applications, you don’t need to or want to do that. That’s considered attempting to “game the system,” and both applications would be disqualified. In the very likely event you are not chosen to hike The Wave, there still might be a way for you to see it, and that’s to fly over it. Fixed wing airplanes and helicopters can be chartered out of Page, AZ, or Kanab, UT. While this would be a pricey way to go, it would enable you to see a ton of amazing scenery in addition to Coyote Buttes. For more information on this, read this article on our companion site, http://www.TheWaveAZ.com : “So You Didn’t Get A Wave Permit – Now What?” Good luck and safe travels, Alley 🙂

Hello. I’m interested in visiting this Fourth of July weekend. I will be visiting Zion and Bryce Canyon. My dream is to see the Wave. I’ve never been able to get a permit before. How early would I have to get there beforehand to try to get 2 passes? I know it’s unlikely…

Hi Szashe and thank you for visiting our site. First off, I’m glad that you acknowledge the fact that the probability of your being able to hike to the The Wave is very small. But there still might be a way for you to see it… more on that in a minute. If you haven’t secured hiking permits for Coyote Buttes North through the online lottery at this point, the only chance you have of getting one now is through the walk-in lottery at the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument Visitors Center in Kanab, UT. Drawings are held for 10 permits (1 person = 1 permit) each day for the FOLLOWING day (so you would go there the day PRIOR to when you wish to hike). To participate in the walk-in lottery, you must show up in person (no phone-ins or proxies) at the GSENM Visitor Center between 8:30 – 9:00 AM Utah time, again, the day before you wish to hike. **Note that Arizona does not observe Daylight Saving Time, but Utah does, so if you’re staying in Page, AZ, you’ll have to leave one hour “early.” If you’re staying in Zion, Bryce, or anywhere else in Utah, simply go by local time.** For more information, read “How To Get A Permit For The Wave” on our companion site, http://www.AntelopeCanyon.AZ If you are lucky enough to be chosen for a walk-up permit, you must be aware that you’re hiking during the hottest time of the year, and plan accordingly. Now, in the very likely event your party is not chosen for a walk-up permit, there might still be a way to make your dream come true, albeit one that will come at a cost: fly over it. Chartering a fixed-wing airplane from the Kanab, UT, Municipal Airport or the Page, AZ, Municipal Airport makes for an expedient and exciting way to not only see The Wave, but countless other scenic landmarks in the area. Flights would most likely depart first thing in the morning for better light and less wind. For more information on doing a charter-by-the-hour over Coyote Buttes and The Wave, visit this piece on our companion site, http://www.TheWaveAZ.com : “So You Didn’t Get A Wave Permit – Now What?” If chartering an airplane is not within your budget or doesn’t appeal for whatever reason, consider taking a guided tour to White Pocket, which is just as beautiful as Coyote Buttes (some would assert moreso!), but does not require a permit. Good luck and safe travels, Alley 🙂

Can u fish in the water?

Dear Harrison, Thank you for this excellent question. Yes, you can fish at Lake Powell! An Arizona fishing license is required, and a Utah license may also be required if you plan to fish in the area of Lake Powell over the Utah State Line. Fishing licenses can be purchased upon arrival in Page, AZ, at Stix Market. For best results, you might consider going with a licensed Lake Powell fishing guide such as McNabb Fishing Guide Service , Ambassador Guides , or Ultimate Lake Powell Fishing Guides . Good luck and safe travels, Alley 🙂

Hello, I will be visiting Arizona in April, is it too late for me to get a permit? We are 2 adults and a 13 year old boy coming from NJ and my brother’s family that lives in Arizona, two adults, a 3 year old, a 9 year old and a 10 year old. Would the hike be too much for the younger kids? Thanks

Hi Milka, The online lottery for April permits to hike The Wave took place in December. If you wish, you can still take part in the walk-in lottery, which is held at the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument Visitors Center in Kanab, UT. You would put your name in the lottery the day before you wish to hike, and can submit for multiple days. That said, I would strongly discourage you even trying. For one, taking a 3-year-old is not recommended as this is a 6+ mile round-trip hike over potentially rough terrain. Another consideration is the size of your party. Only 10 walk-in permits per day are given out, and larger groups tend to not fare as well as smaller parties do. That said, there are many beautiful areas in the vicinity of The Wave that require neither advance permits or long-distance hiking. One you may consider is White Pocket. The only disadvantage to this area is the drive in: the trail tends to be very sandy, which requires a high-clearance, 4WD vehicle. Going with a licensed tour outfitter is definitely the safer way to go. For a list of authorized guide services, visit our companion site, TheWaveAZ.com: Hire A Guide Good luck and safe travels, Alley 🙂

There is a company that takes guided tours to The Wave. Do you know about any company that you might recommend? Permits are so very difficult to get, so I found a Grand Circle Tour company that is charging $200 for a day tour of The Wave. Please advise.

Dear Ambreen, There are approximately a dozen tour companies in the Page, AZ, and Kanab, UT, area that take guided tours to The Wave . However, using one of them does not exempt you from the permit requirement. You still need to get one. And as you’ve discovered, getting a Wave permit is very difficult to do. Since it is statistically unlikely that you will get a permit for The Wave, we recommend you plan on visiting one of several “alternate” areas that are just as scenic and either do not require a permit, or permits are easier to get. Some areas include, but aren’t limited to: White Pocket, Soap Creek, Sidestep Canyon, Coyote Buttes South (requires a permit, but are easier to get), the New Wave, or Alstrom Point . Another possible workaround to the Wave permit dilemma, which granted will be more expensive, would be to fly over it. For more information on this option, visit our sister site, TheWaveAZ.com and read “ So You Didn’t Get A Wave Permit – Now What? ” Hope that helps. Best wishes for a Happy New Year and safe travels, Alley 🙂

Hello, dreaming and planning of getting the permit as coming from Europe in March/April. I kneo the chances are low and you already detailed other locations around close by in case of unsucssesful walk-in lottery. I do have a related to rental car: would it be enought to rent compact car or SUV revommended? Will be driving from Las Vegas and planning a big road trip.

Hi Neri, Whether you rent a compact or SUV is a matter of taste, but an SUV would certainly give you more luggage space for that “big road trip.” Plus it might come in handy if the House Rock Valley Road (the road to access the Wave trailhead) is wet or muddy, which is a very likely scenario in March or April. However, the latter consideration is something of a “Catch-22:” having 4WD can be advantageous when going off road, but the majority of rental car contracts forbid driving on unpaved roads. If you are fortunate enough to get a permit via the online or walk-in lottery, you might consider playing it safe and hiring a BLM-licensed guide to escort you to The Wave . This would ensure that 1. you get there in one piece without damage to your rental vehicle and 2. that you make the most of the opportunity to explore the incredible scenery in Coyote Buttes North. If you do hire a guide, you do not have to apply for a Wave permit for them, they are already pre-qualified through their business license. For more tips and information on planning a visit to The Wave and the surrounding area, visit our companion sites, http://www.TheWaveAZ.com or http://www.AntelopeCanyon.AZ Good luck and safe travels, Alley 🙂

Hello! We are hiking the Wave this November and will be driving to coyotes buttes from Page AZ. How long is the drive from Page to the hiking entrance and do you think it’s ok that we stay in page rather than Kanab?

Hey Lauren, Congratulations on scoring a Wave permit! This is a great question. Fortunately, it’s a “six of one/half a dozen of another” proposition as to whether you stay in Page, AZ, or Kanab, UT. Kanab is about 45 miles from the House Rock Valley Road turn-off; Page is closer, but only slightly, a difference of 2-3 miles at most. Find lodging in whatever town suits you best budget-wise, looks most appealing and has availability. Both towns have other attractions in the immediate vicinity that might warrant a multi-night stay, so that’s another consideration to factor in. Whatever you choose, we strongly recommend being at the House Rock Valley Road turn-off by sunrise, which will be a little before 7:00 AM in November. For other tips on getting ready for a Wave hike, visit our sister site, http://www.TheWaveAZ.com Good luck and happy hiking! Alley 🙂

Can someone let me know how long does it take to finish the walk-in permit lottery? I am hoping it can be done in 1hour and half?

Thank you in adv.

Hey Johnny, Great question! The Wave walk-in lottery gives out permits to hike The Wave for the following day. The process can take anywhere from 1 hour to upwards of 2 hours depending on how many people are trying their hand at it on a given day. For this reason, we discourage you from booking anything time sensitive immediately after the lottery, so that you don’t a. miss your activity and/or b. lose your money. Here is a short video account of one person’s experience with it: How To Walk In The Wave Lottery For further information read “ How To Get a Wave Permit ” Remember as well that during Daylight Saving Time periods, Utah DOES observe the time change, whereas Arizona does not, so if you’re traveling from Page, AZ to Kanab, UT to participate in the walk-in lottery, Utah will be one hour ahead of Page. You must time your drive accordingly (start out an hour “early”). Good luck and safe travels! Alley 🙂

We won the lottery to hike the wave in first week of october ! However, we have a one year old and weighing our options here. While we are very excited about the rare opportunity we are not sure how advisable is it to hike the wave with a one year old.

Dear Deepthi, Congratulations on winning The Wave lottery! Early October is certainly a nice time to be here, and to make that hike. As for taking your little one along, only you can make that choice, and others have certainly done it before you. If you were hiking in the middle of summer, I’d probably advise you against it, but your risks should be carefully considered even at the nearly ideal time of year that you’re hiking. Be aware that the hike is about 6 miles long round-trip. One of you should probably be ready to carry the child most of the way. A backpack carrier is definitely a must. Another factor is the exposed nature of the trail: there is very little shade to be found, so all of you (child included) should wear wide-brimmed hats and plenty of sunscreen. Lastly, bringing enough water for every member of your party is absolutely essential. For more advice on hiking The Wave with a toddler, you might also pose your question on the travel forums on websites such as TripAdvisor, Bogley, Lonely Planet and so forth. Congratulations again and do let us know how you get on. Alley 🙂

I was thinking of visiting the Wave in July 2018. What is the closest airport to fly into. I have a little one who is 5 yrs old and may not be able to hike much. Is there a way for us to still experience the wave?

Hi Divs! First off, hiking permits for The Wave were issued in March. Secondly, we would not recommend taking a 5-year-old on this hike, especially at that time of year. It’s terribly hot (daytime high temperatures reach upwards of 110 degrees Fahrenheit!) and that enhances your risk of illness, injury or even death exponentially. The only other way to see The Wave that would a. be safe for you and your family and b. would take the permit requirement out of the equation would be to fly over it. A small “disclaimer:” since The Wave is in actuality quite small in comparison to the Coyote Buttes area as a whole, it does not show up that well from the air. However, the surrounding scenery is amazing. Because the flight (airplane or helicopter) would be considered a special charter, it will likely be quite expensive, but if this is a once-in-a-lifetime trip, you’d likely find the cost quite worth it. Below please find a list of air charter services out of Page, AZ and Kanab, UT. Page Municipal Airport (PGA): Westwind Air Service 928-645-2494 Scenic/Grand Canyon Airlines 702.577.9060 Grand Canyon Helicopters 702-736-7243 Kanab Municipal Airport (KNB): Red Tail Aviation (435) 819-0730 Kanab Helicopters (877) 651-1693 Good luck and safe travels, Alley 🙂 P.S. The best airports to fly into for visiting Northern Arizona and Southern Utah are: Las Vegas, NV (LAS) – 247 miles, 4.5 hour drive from the Wire Pass Trailhead (starting point of the hike to The Wave) Phoenix, AZ (PHX) – 320 miles, 5.5 hour drive from the trailhead Salt Lake City, UT (SLC) – 365 miles, 6 hour drive from the railhead

If you are not selected for the Lottery on the day you’ve selected to go to The Wave, how easy is it to get to Bryce or Zion from the Lottery spot? Could we go there easily from the lottery spot? If not, what other easy to moderate hikes would you suggest in the area? Need to book lodging, etc, so hope to lock in a schedule very soon.

Hi Terry, Yes it would be easy to visit either park from the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument Visitor Center in Kanab, UT (where the in-person lottery is held). Zion National Park is closer, about half an hour drive. Bryce is about a 1.5 hour drive from Kanab. Either park has a wide selection of easy-to-moderate hikes you can do should you strike out on The Wave. Day hiking in Zion Day hiking in Bryce Before getting into hikes, however, you should get your lodging nailed down as choices are limited in both parks. If for some reason you are unable to secure lodging within the parks, you could opt to simply stay in Kanab, UT for Zion, or the community of Springdale, UT on the Western border of the park has an ample selection of hotels (but you should still make reservations). For Bryce, the areas of Ruby’s Inn, Tropic, UT or Hatch, UT offer good locations from which to “base camp.” Hope that helps. Have fun and safe travels! Alley 🙂

Alley, the info you provided is just what we needed. Thank you…

How far of a hike is the wave? What level would this hike be. Do I need special gear?Ropes and such? Thank you.

Hi Tammy, The hike to The Wave from the starting point at Wire Pass Trailhead is approximately 6 miles round-trip. It is considered a “moderate” hike. Ropes and other special gear are not required, but you must take adequate water and food. The most important piece of “equipment” to carry, however, is the proper permit. This area is ecologically fragile and access to it is limited to 20 people per day by the Bureau of Land Management. For more information on obtaining a permit, visit AntelopeCanyon.az How To Get A Permit For The Wave AZ Good luck and safe travels, Alley 🙂

Can I get close to the Wave to take some pictures, not for hiking?

Hi Van, Unfortunately, that’s not possible – at least on the ground (more on that in a minute). It’s approximately a 3 mile hike to The Wave from the Wire Pass Trailhead on the House Rock Valley Road. Coyote Buttes North is hidden behind several ridges, so there’s no choice but to hike there in order to take photos. If you’re unable to make the hike or obtain a permit, another way you might see The Wave is to charter an airplane or helicopter from Page, AZ or Kanab, UT. Doing such a thing will be pricey, and The Wave itself doesn’t show that well from the air, but the view of the surrounding terrain is amazing. YouTube video of a helicopter flight over The Wave Hope that helps. Alley 🙂

Got a permit to hike The Wave and all looked good until this weeks forecast of rain/snow on Monday morning the day my permit is good for. Forecast says 8am – 10am Showers/Rain/Snow less than an inch. Do you think we will be able to drive to the Trailhead with the road being wet? Thanks for your time.

Hi Quoc, Congratulations on getting that Wave permit. Sorry to hear that it might coincide with inclement weather. It’s too soon to predict what conditions on the House Rock Valley Road will be like, but your best resource for up to the minute information will most likely be the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument Visitor Center in Kanab. You might try calling them at (435) 644-1300 Monday morning. Good luck and hope everything works out. Alley 🙂

Hi, My wife and I are planning to visit Kanab the week after Christmas. Ideally we’d love to hit the lottery f or the Wave. Reality, very remote to happen. We are driving from our home in Las Vegas and are planning an overnight, or two. If we can’t hit the lottery what hikes in that area would you suggest? We’ve done Zion and Bryce so we would prefer the Kanab area. We do a lot of class 2 and 3 generally between 5-7 miles. Any help would be fantastic! Thank you, Dominic

Hello Dominic and thank you for visiting our site today! We’re glad to see that you’re being realistic about your odds of getting a Wave permit, but, we’ll still keep our fingers crossed for you. As for alternatives you might consider, these include, but are certainly not limited to: – Coyote Buttes South (still requires a permit, but tend to be significantly easier to get) – White Pocket Fold (a guide service such as Paria Outpost or Dreamland Safaris is recommended for the somewhat difficult drive to the trailhead) – Buckskin Gulch – Coral Pink Sand Dunes Trail – Lower Hackberry Canyon Trail – Cobra Arch Trail (near Paria) For more suggestions, a good site to visit is AllTrails.com You might also try the Grand Staircase-Escalante Visitors Center or the Kane County Visitors Center when you arrive in Kanab. The employees there are bound to have suggestions we left out! Good luck and let us know how you get on. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from all of us at HorseshoeBend.com! Alley 🙂

Hi, I’m currently stationed in VA and am going to be coming back home in AZ for two weeks in May to visit family. How hard will it be to get a permit to plan out a trip like this with 6 people?

Hi Taylor, In a word – OK, two – VERY hard. Popularity of The Wave increases almost exponentially with each passing year, and May is one of the nicer times to visit. In case you weren’t aware, access to this area is by permit, and only 20 per day are given out, 10 by advance online lottery and 10 on a walk-in basis the day prior. How To Get A Wave Permit You’re going to have a LOT of competition for permits at that time of year, so it’d be smart to start thinking in terms of alternatives: other places that are just as cool, scenery-wise, but not so bloody hard to get into. Areas you might consider exploring include but are not limited to: Alstrom Point, Coyote Buttes South (a permit is required, but these tend to be easier to get), White Pocket Fold, Steamboat Rock, Cobra Arch, Buckskin Gulch or The “New” Wave near Page, AZ. Hope that helps and that you have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Alley 🙂 P.S. And THANK YOU for your service.

Hi my name is Roxanne and I wanted to know what is the best month to hike the wave? what kind of wild animals are there?

Hi Roxana and thank you for visiting today! The best time to hike The Wave is during early Spring or Fall. Daytime high temperatures aren’t so hot then, so there’s lower risk of heat exhaustion and other complications sometimes experienced during the summer months. The downside? Lots of people are aware of this, so competition for the few permits they give out is particularly fierce for April or October. Those who are truly determined to hike The Wave may have to settle for a time of year that’s less than ideal weather-wise. As for wildlife you may see, typically it’s lizards, snakes, and chipmunks; occasionally deer or elk are spotted. Hope that helps. For more information on obtaining a permit to hike The Wave, visit the Bureau of Land Management’s official website . Thanks again and happy hiking! Alley 🙂

Hi Ryan, My wife and I are visiting Page AZ – driving into Page from the Grand Canyon Southern Rim on the evening of Monday 18th December 2017. We plan to stay in Page on the 19th of December. We would like to see the Antelope Canyon (upper and lower) followed by the Horseshoe Bend (to photograph) and maybe see the Wave. Please could you let me know if we can join a group tour for the above sites? will 1 whole day be enough? Please let us know what the weather will be like in Mid-December? How much would it cost?

Many thanks

Dear Jafar, Hello and thanks for visiting our site. Unfortunately, there is no commercial tour that covers ALL of the sites you wish to see. The Wave, in particular, is very difficult to get access to. It requires some forethought, a good dose of luck and a high degree of physical fitness in order to experience. Read this piece for more detailed information How To Get A Wave Permit As for Antelope Canyons, since you have your own vehicle, and are interested in seeing both the Upper and Lower branches, your best bet would be to catch tours that originate from the canyon’s entrance on US98 just South of Page. For Upper Antelope Canyon, you would want to contact Antelope Canyon Navajo Tours or click here to reserve . For Lower Antelope Canyon, there are two outfitters that operate from the canyon’s entrance on US98: Ken’s Lower Antelope Canyon Tours and Dixie Ellis’ Antelope Lower Canyon Tours . No need to be too concerned about who does the better tour, they are virtually identical right down to the footsteps. Prices will be listed on all respective sites. As for Horseshoe Bend, you can visit it whenever you wish, no tour guide is needed. Keep in mind, though, that daylength is relatively short during the winter months. Sunrise occurs about 7:30 AM, sunset at about 5:15 PM. Weather in mid-December will be on the cool side, with possible rain or light snow, so be prepared by packing jackets, gloves, scarves and other clothing appropriate for these weather conditions. If I’m inadvertently making it sound like December is a horrible time to visit, that’s far from the case. That time of the year is shoulder season, so along with cooler temperatures, you’ll encounter far fewer people than you would during the summer months. More than a fair trade-off IMO. Good luck and safe travels! Alley 🙂 P.S. In response to your other inquiry, Ryan is a part-time consultant with our company and does not give guided tours. The contact information for the sites you wish to see has been given above.

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Hire a Guide

Why hire a guide.

What if we told you that most people who hike to The Wave end up missing out on the exquisite beauty and singular geology of Coyote Buttes North, because they’re so focused on not getting lost on the way to The Wave? That would be the ultimate case of not seeing the forest for the trees, right? Getting a permit to hike The Wave is a highly-coveted, once-in-a-lifetime experience. So how do you ensure that you make the most of it? By hiring a guide!

There is no Established Trail!

If you were fortunate enough to score a permit for The Wave, one of the first things you learn is that there is no “established” trail to The Wave. Even though the BLM supplies a detailed map of the hiking route to permit holders, basic map reading and route-finding skills are a definite plus. There are instances every year of people getting so hopelessly lost that they never see The Wave, or worse, require a costly search and rescue operation to get them back to safety, and civilization. Then there’s the matter of whether the House Rock Valley Road to the Wire Pass Trailhead is even passable at the time of your hike. Winter snowstorms and summer flash floods can turn the normally hard, compacted dirt road to sticky, wet clay, which has mired many a rental car over the years. Who needs all those variables to ruin what is likely to be your one and only chance to see The Wave?

Kanab Tour Company

There are over a dozen tour outfitters authorized by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to conduct tours to Coyote Buttes North and its crown jewel, The Wave. Our preferred tour partner is Kanab Tour Company. 

The reality is that with so many people trying for a permit to the Wave the odds are that you will not get one. Let us customize a tour that shows off the other little known formations in the area!

Tour Operators

These trained professionals can eliminate the guesswork of hiking to The Wave . They’ll help you take quality photos by guiding you to the best areas of Coyote Buttes North at the times of day that lend optimal light and shadow play on the rock formations, such as:

The “Second” Wave

The Boneyard 

Top Rock and Top Rock Arch

North and South TeePees

The Dinosaur Dance Floor

Melody Arch

Hourglass Arch

Dick’s Arch

With Kanab Tour Company, you’ll find a clean, comfortable fleet of late-model, high-clearance vehicles, and local driver/guides with the experience and knowledge to safely pilot them. They can power through deep mud and sand, and spider-crawl over boulders, ruts, and other obstacles – both expected and unexpected – that might pop up on the journey. On the trail, they’ll share insight and expertise on the geology and human history of the area that you may miss out on by going unaccompanied

If you were unable to secure permits for The Wave and Coyote Buttes North, these companies can suggest a myriad of alternate sites that are just as incredible as The Wave (some, dare we say it, even moreso!), and don’t require a permit. Remember, they are experts on the area of the American Southwest known as The Grand Circle and their knowledge and enthusiasm can make a huge difference in the quality of your vacation, your photos, and your memories!

Companies with the necessary clearance from the BLM (Bureau of Land Management) to guide tours to The Wave are:

Action Photo Tours — www.actionphototours.com — 208-789-5899

• American West Scenic Adventures — www.utahguidedtours.com —  435-767-0220

Dreamland Safari Tours — www.dreamlandtours.net —  435-644-5506

Grand Circle Tours — www.vermilioncliffs.net —  928-691-0166

Grand Staircase Discovery Tours — www.grandstaircasediscoverytours.com —  928-614-4099

Kanab Tour Company — www.kanabtourcompany.com —  435-644-5525

Kanab Western Adventures — www.kanabwesternadventures.com — 435-690-0220

Coral Cliffs Tours of Kanab — www.cctoursandtownhomes.com — 435-899-0697

Paria Outpost & Outfitters — www.paria.com —  928-691-1047

ROAM Outdoor Adventures — www.roam-outdoor.com — 435-319-0472‬

Seeking Treasure Adventures — www.seekingtreasureadventures.com —  435-689-2182

Antelope Canyon Tours — www.antelopecanyon.com — 928-645-9102

Lake Powell Scenic Tours — www.lakepowellscenictours.com — 928-316-6060

Adventure Tours of Kanab — 435-689-2029

Peek-A-Boo Slot Canyon Tours — www.peekaboo-slot-canyon-tours.com — 435-414-9793

Some outfitters offer round-trip transport from Page, Arizona, Kanab, Utah and other gateway cities. Others require that you meet them at their headquarters. Be sure you establish your tour’s meeting place, what time zone they’re operating on, and convenience to where you’re staying, before committing to use their services. Also, be aware that utilizing a guided tour to The Wave does not exempt you from the requirement to get a Wave Permit. You still need to get one. Some tour companies may apply on your behalf as part of a booked excursion, with contingency tour locations for if a permit is not awarded.

While you wait for your permit why not take a look at some other tours in the area.

• Anniversary Traditions
• EXPERT ADVICE
• United States
• Itineraries

What is the Wave? – There’s MORE To SEE!!!

The Wave Arizona

Have you heard of the Wave? No, not the one you surf. The Wave that you can walk on without getting water up your nose! The Wave that takes just as much physical activity, but allows for a view of your lifetime! I’m talking about THE WAVE that is a sandstone rock formation on the border of Utah and Arizona. You might have seen it as a Microsoft screen saver years ago. Due to the Wave’s overwhelming popularity and its fragile nature of the sandstone, only 20 people can visit a day. Permits can be obtained from the Bureau of Land Management via a lottery system that you can read about here . Chances of winning the lottery for a daily permit to the Wave is as low as 4% in the busy season of April to November.

The Wave Arizona tour

To get to the Wave requires a 6 mile round trip, moderately strenuous hike. I recommend a tour guide so you do not get lost and you find the Wave at the opportune time. It is best to see the Wave mid-day to get the best views of the striations developed by the wind over the many, MANY years. You do not want to miss that opportune time because you are wandering around lost! A tour guide plans the day out for you and makes sure you see the highlights of Coyote Buttes. And most important, packs a picnic lunch and keeps you safe! We used Dreamland Safari Tours and highly recommend them!

The Wave guided tour

Our guide mentioned that of the 20 people that win permits to the Wave, some still never find it. Some wander around and get lost. In fact, while we were hiking, there was a rescue helicopter flying over looking for someone lost. Our guide told us about every week someone gets lost in the area. Some even have to spend the night since you aren’t considered “missing” the day you are lost.

Chris and I decided we would be more than happy to pay for a guide to make sure we were able to see as much of the area as possible. That, and we have been known to get lost FOLLOWING people! 😉

The Wave trailhead

Here I am at the trailhead getting the hike started.

Across from the parking area, you see one of the only trails of the day.

The hike continues on a dried up river bed.

Thank God we had a tour guide, as I would have walked right past this sign guiding us to the Wave!

The terrain to the Wave is sand or rock that is not level. You basically follow your map looking in the distance for markers.

The scenery along the way is so beautiful. I did not even feel as though I was hiking.

A sign directing you towards the wave. It is one of just 2 signs out in the North Coyote Buttes area.

A happy hiker!

Almost to there!

We arrived midday. The perfect time to see it!

Of course, we had to take pictures of us in the Wave!

There are not enough words to express the beauty of this rock formation.

There were about 10 others that arrived midday while we enjoyed there. We spent over an hour here eating lunch and enjoying the scenery.

Chris and our guide eating lunch at the top of the Wave.

After lunch, we spent more time checking out the crevices in the Wave. With every minute that passed, the light changed the color of the striations creating a different view.

Sites to see near the Wave Arizona

If you are lucky enough to win a permit to the North Coyote Buttes area, explore all that it has to offer. There are dinosaur tracks and other rock formations that are just as amazing! We went to Melody Arch and Window, the Sand Cove, and the Second Wave.

The Second Wave

Sand Alcove

Melody Arch and Window is a destination in itself! Most hikers in this area never get to experience this beautiful rock formation! It requires a strenuous and steep climb but allows for an amazing view out the hole in the rock. Words cannot describe the beauty looking through the arch and window out into the Coyote Buttes area.

After climbing to the top, it was time to head back down and explore more of the North Coyote Buttes area.

There are many dinosaur tracks and rock formations in the area you can check out. There are lace rocks and even one that looks like giant rock cheeseburger! The wind and rain has created many beautiful geological masterpieces.

Since we were in the area, we headed to the Wire Pass Slot Canyon. You can read more about this addition to the trip here .

Watch a video of our day in North Coyote Buttes.

What to Pack for a Day Hike: Hiking Checklist

Recommended Hiking Gear

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Tips for hiking the Wave in Arizona.

Wave Lottery Tips

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Coyote Buttes North Daily Lottery (The Wave)

Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness

Important Information:

If you are planning to visit Coyote Buttes North (The Wave), there are only two possible options to get a permit.  

The Coyote Buttes North Daily Lottery (The Wave) - apply on this website

The Coyote Buttes North Advanced Lottery (The Wave) – apply to Advanced Lottery here  

Quick information about the Daily Lottery.

• Applications must be submitted two days before your hike during the lottery application window (6am - 6pm)
• You need a mobile device to apply – desktop or laptops will not work. Out of date Recreation.gov mobile apps will cause issues with payment.
• You must be in the geofence area to apply ( see map ) 
• 16 people and/or 4 groups (whichever comes first) receive permits through this Daily Lottery   

Quick information about the Advanced Lottery.

• Applications are submitted 4 months in advance of the hike date ( see website for the current month ) 
• Enter the Advanced Lottery at this site - apply for Advanced Lottery here  
• You can apply from anywhere or any device
• 48 people and/or 12 groups (whichever comes first) receive permits through this Advanced Lottery    

It is your responsibility to understand this information before applying for a permit. There are no refunds for lottery applications or permits, and permits cannot be rescheduled for any reason.

The lottery system is based on the time in Utah and the Navajo Nation. There are multiple deadlines to be aware of: submitting the application, accepting the lottery, picking up your permit. Carefully review the chart under Important Dates to see details concerning time zones.   

Overview of Coyote Buttes North

Coyote Buttes North is just a small part of the 112,500-acre Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness, but the permit area has some of the most visually striking geologic sandstone formations in the world, including the “Wave”. 

Coyote Buttes North Permit Area is within a backcountry, undeveloped wilderness area and does not contain any developed trails or facilities. Permit-holders are given a route description, which includes a route map, photo guide, and GPS coordinates along the suggested route to the Wave. The hike to the Wave is a physically demanding 6.4 mile round-trip hike. Permit-holders should be in good physical condition and be comfortable navigating in undeveloped areas.

The road that accesses the permit area is unpaved and minimally maintained. Most of the time, it is possible to reach the trailhead in a two-wheel-drive, high-clearance vehicle. However, four-wheel-drive, high-clearance vehicles may be required when the road is wet. During the rainy season and the winter, the road may become impassable for all vehicles, even those with four-wheel drive. Be aware that cell service is spotty in this region.

Notifications and Alerts

There are multiple steps and deadlines to be aware of : submitting the application, accepting the lottery, and picking up your permit. Missing any deadline will void your successful permit award . Refer to Lottery Information for details. Carefully review the chart under Important Dates to see particulars concerning time zones. The lottery system is based on the time in Utah and the Navajo Nation.

To continue providing a quality recreational experience at Coyote Buttes North (The Wave), the Bureau of Land Management has issued a draft business plan fee proposal for this site, in addition to other BLM-managed recreation sites in Arizona. The BLM wants to hear from you about these draft business plans. To review each draft business plan and to learn how to give your input, visit the Recreation Site Business Plans page on BLM.gov . 

Permit & Season Information

A permit is required to visit the Coyote Buttes North permit area, which features “The Wave”. Permits are distributed by lottery, either through this Daily Lottery, two days ahead of the permit date, or through the Advanced Lottery four months ahead of the permit date.  

Application submissions to the Daily Lottery are limited by a geofence. To apply, a group member must be within the geofence during the application window of 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, two days before the permit date.  

The lottery is held daily.  

There are multiple steps and deadlines to be aware of: submitting the application, accepting the lottery, and picking up your permit. Missing any deadline will void your successful permit award. Refer to Lottery Information for details. Carefully review the chart under Important Dates to see particulars concerning time zones. The lottery system is based on the time in Utah and the Navajo Nation.

Need to Know

Permit Information

 Permits are non-refundable. Permits cannot be rescheduled for any reason.

• Each individual may submit only one application per lottery. 
• Cannot concurrently hold more than one permit for a permit area.  
• Permits are valid only in the Coyote Buttes North permit area for the group size and date specified. They are not valid for other permit areas such as Coyote Buttes South or Paria Canyon Overnight.
• Violators of group size may be cited if limit is exceeded. Joining with those on a separate permit to exceed 6 is prohibited.
• If a group obtains a permit and opts to retain an authorized outfitter and guide service, the guide will not count against the group size limit or the total visitor limit for the given day. Parties limited to one guide each.
• Authorized commercial operators may also reserve permits for trips they lead. They compete equally with non-commercial users. If a guide service obtains a permit, the guide will count against the group size.  

Safety is your responsibility!

• Permits are issued for every day of the year, but changing conditions mean that access is not always safe or possible. Before applying, consider what the weather and road conditions are likely to be.  
• Permits cannot be rescheduled, even when conditions are poor. If you receive a permit for a day with unsafe conditions, you must choose whether to use the permit. Your safety is your responsibility. 
• Extreme heat and lack of shade between May and September, along with the absence of drinking water, have led to fatalities in this permit area. During the rainy season, heavy rainfall can cause extreme flash flooding. This can lead to impassable roads and dangerous hiking conditions. Winter visits may involve hiking on ice-covered sandstone and exposure to cold.
• There are no trails in the Coyote Buttes North permit area. Permit holders are offered an orientation and a route description, but the route itself is unmarked. Before applying, evaluate whether all group members have enough experience to navigate in this area. If unsure, consider hiring an authorized guide.
• The suggested route to the Wave is a strenuous 6.4 mile round-trip hike. Consider the physical abilities and fitness level of all group members before applying. 
• The road that accesses the permit area is unpaved and minimally maintained. Most of the time, it is possible to reach the trailhead in a two-wheel-drive, high-clearance vehicle. However, four-wheel-drive, high-clearance vehicles may be required when the road is wet. During the rainy season and the winter months, the road may become impassable for all vehicles, even those with four-wheel-drive.
• Call 911 in case of a life-threatening emergency. Cell phones are unreliable in this area but may be able to reach 911 even when other numbers do not work.  

Rules and Regulations

• Use of motorized and mechanized vehicles and equipment, and the launching and landing of drones, is prohibited in Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. (eg. bicycles, skateboards, strollers)
• Visitors must register at trailheads when entering or leaving the area.
• All group members must stay together.
• Coyote Buttes North permit area is designated day use only. Overnight camping is prohibited.
• Dogs are allowed, but they must be included on the permit and kept under control at all times. Waste must be packed out.
• All natural and cultural objects are protected. 
• Defacing surfaces and cutting or trampling vegetation is prohibited. 
• Harassing or feeding wildlife is prohibited.
• Campfires and burning of trash are prohibited. All trash, including toilet paper, must be carried out.
• Recreational use of horses or pack stock is not permitted.
• A Special Recreation Permit is required in addition to the recreation permit for all commercial uses such as outfitters or organized group guided trips where there is a fee charged. 

Application Fee: A non-refundable $9.00 lottery fee is required for each lottery application.

Recreation Fee: If selected in the lottery, a recreation fee of $7.00 per person or dog is required. This fee is paid online when filling in additional information to complete the process after successfully winning. Everyone, regardless of age, must be included in the permit. This includes infants that are not walking. Payment of recreation fees is only required if a permit is awarded through the lottery.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation Policy: All fees are non-refundable. If a permit is cancelled, it does not return to the pool.

Change Policy: There will be no change or modification allowed to permit dates, applicant name and group size following the application process. The only way to modify these details is to cancel the first application and submit a new one, which will require an additional payment of the $9.00 application fee.

If the primary permit holder cannot make the trip on the permit date and is not present, the permit is invalid.

Contact Information

Mailing address.

669 S. Hwy 89A Kanab Utah 84741

This is not a permit pick-up location. See the Getting Here section for details.

Phone Number

(435) 644-1200

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