Vermilion Cliffs NM

Coyote Buttes North - The Wave - Paria Canyon

Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness - Coyote Buttes' outstanding scenery, desert wildlife, colorful history, and opportunities for primitive recreation will remain free from the influence of man and be protected in this condition for future generations. Its 112,500 acres beckon adventurers who yearn for solitude, scenic splendor, and the chance to explore one of the most beautiful geologic formations in the world. Coyote Buttes North is an internationally renowned hiking destination.

Nationally known for its beauty, the Paria Canyon has towering walls streaked with desert varnish, huge red rock amphitheaters, sandstone arches, wooded terraces, and hanging gardens. The 3,000-foot escarpment known as the Vermilion Cliffs dominates the remainder of the wilderness with its thick Navajo sandstone face, steep, boulder-strewn slopes, rugged arroyos and stark overall appearance. Some of the best slot canyon hiking opportunities on the Colorado Plateau are found here. Deer and desert bighorn sheep inhabit the area.

The Wave at Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. Photo by Karl Seidl/Getty Images.

Paria Plateau at Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. Photo by zrfphoto/Getty Images.

Hiker at Vermilion Cliffs national Monument. Photo by Kamchatka.

Mesa at Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. Photo by zrfphoto/Getty Images.

Things you should know before starting your hike:

• Coyote Buttes North is an internationally renowned hiking destination. In order to make it fair for everyone who wishes to visit, a lottery system has been put in place.
• Advance permits are required for day use. There is no overnight camping allowed in the Coyote Buttes permit area.
  
• Day-use permits are available online, and as walk-in permits at the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument Visitor Center in Kanab, Utah. You can get them issued on the day before you wish to hike.
  
• Day users must display half their permit on their vehicle windshield and the other half should be visible on the outside of their backpack.
  
• Campfires are prohibited.
  
• Dogs are allowed. They must be kept under control at all times.
  
• Successful Coyote Buttes North permit applicants will receive a map and directions to the "Wave".
  
• Group size cannot exceed six in the same permit area on the same day.
  
• All trash must be packed out, including toilet paper.
  
• Use of public land for business or financial gain requires a special permit.
  
• The wilderness is closed to motorized and mechanized vehicles and equipment.
  
• If during your hike, your permit is inspected by BLM representatives, you may be asked to present a government issued I.D. for permit verification.
  
• Permit are non-transferable.

Related DesertUSA Pages

• How to Turn Your Smartphone into a Survival Tool
  
• 26 Tips for Surviving in the Desert
  
• Death by GPS
  
• 7 Smartphone Apps to Improve Your Camping Experience
• Maps Parks and More
• Desert Survival Skills
• How to Keep Ice Cold in the Desert
  
• Desert Rocks, Minerals & Geology Index
• Preparing an Emergency Survival Kit
• Get the Best Hotel and Motel Rates
  

Share this page on Facebook:

The Desert Environment
The North American Deserts
Desert Geological Terms