The Wave
Kanab
The Wave is a world-renowned sandstone rock formation located in the Coyote Buttes North area along the Utah-Arizona border, celebrated for its swirling, undulating red and orange Navajo sandstone. The roughly 10-kilometer hike leads through a surreal, frozen-in-motion desert landscape with optional scrambles to arches and alcoves. Due to its fragile environment, access is strictly limited to 64 people per day through a competitive BLM permit lottery.
Commenters are awestruck by the otherworldly scenery, frequently comparing its vibrant, wave-like visuals to iconic desktop wallpapers. The overarching sentiment is aspirational and deeply enthusiastic, though many express disappointment and frustration over the extreme difficulty of winning the permit lottery.
- Apply early for the Coyote Buttes North BLM permit lottery, which caps access at 64 people daily.
- Explore White Pocket or South Coyote Buttes as scenic alternatives if you miss out on permits.
- Stay in nearby Kanab, Utah, or Page, Arizona, for easy trailhead logistics.
- Be prepared for an exposed 10 km round-trip desert trek with sun protection and ample water.
- Scramble up to nearby alcoves and arches for elevated photography angles.
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