KANAB HIKING FIELD GUIDE
Across Stone Seas: Hiking The Wave at Coyote Buttes North
An 8-hour, permit-required hike from Kanab into the undulating sandstone of The Wave—this guide distills logistics, route flow, and what you must bring.
Across Stone Seas: Hiking The Wave at Coyote Buttes North.
Adventure brief
Across Stone Seas: Hiking The Wave at Coyote Buttes North
The Wave, officially Coyote Buttes North, is a desert amphitheater of wind-sculpted sandstone that ripples like an ocean frozen in stone. Reaching it from Kanab is an 8-hour outing that rewards those willing to take on deep sand, loose rock and exposed terrain with some of the most singular geological forms in southern Utah.
Discover The Wave, one of southern Utah's most spectacular natural formations, on an exclusive 8-hour guided tour. This trek through Coyote Buttes North offers an experience unlike any other, showcasing vibrant sandstone patterns that resemble crashing ocean waves molded by wind and water over millions of years. The trail is rugged and remote, demanding solid preparation and a valid hiking permit, which Coral Cliffs Tours and Townhomes of Kanab expertly help you secure. Along the way, hikers encounter diverse desert scenery including towering rock walls, narrow canyons, and expansive vistas. The physical challenge, combined with the stunning artistry of nature, creates an unforgettable outdoor journey. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or an adventure seeker looking to witness one of the planet’s most astonishing geological features, this tour delivers a rewarding and inspiring day in the wilderness. Expect warm, dry conditions and bring plenty of water, sun protection, and sturdy footwear to tackle the uneven terrain. Local guides ensure safety and share insights about the environment, geology, and historic significance of the area. The Wave cannot be accessed by casual visitors, making this guided adventure a rare chance to explore a truly iconic spot on your next Utah trip.
Route Schematic
Route schematic and stops
Key moments on the tour include meeting, reaching the trail access, and the hike to The Wave itself.
Pickup / Meet in Kanab
Operator pickup is available from local Kanab lodgings or, if you are driving in, you will meet at the Coral Cliffs Tours office (address supplied at booking).
Alternate meeting: House Rock Valley Road turnoff
For guests coming from Page, the operator can meet at the off-road turnoff parking lot at the House Rock Valley Road and Highway 89 junction prior to reaching the trail access.
Trail approach and hike to The Wave
From the trail access you will hike into Coyote Buttes North across mixed terrain—deep sand, loose rock and sandstone—with a round-trip distance of roughly 6–12 miles depending on side trips.
This is a very strenuous hike in exposed conditions; participants must be physically capable of hiking 6–12 miles over uneven terrain and extreme weather, and a permit is required for access.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Striking sandstone waves up close
The formation known as The Wave delivers sweeping, wave-like sandstone surfaces and fine-grained striations—photographic light and intimate detail await on the actual rock; access is limited by permit to help preserve this fragile landscape.
A long, strenuous desert hike
Expect a demanding hike across deep sand, uneven rock and exposed slopes with elevation gain both ways; itineraries list roughly 6–12 miles round-trip depending on how much you explore.
Permit-controlled, small-group access
Visits to Coyote Buttes North require a permit; operators coordinate permits and pickups from Kanab or specified meeting points to ensure you arrive prepared and legally authorized.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
From pickup or a designated meeting point near Kanab, you move into a stark desert geography—a drive or short off-road transfer leads to the trail access and then a long, unshaded hike. The day is defined by slow, deliberate miles over sand and sandstone, with the payoff arriving as the layered, wave-like rock formations come into view.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this outing suits — and who should sit it out.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is an 8-hour outing; plan for a full day and variable temperatures—hot summers and cold winters are both possible.
Bring sturdy hiking shoes, layered weather-appropriate clothing, sun protection, your own water and lunch/snacks; the operator carries extra water for emergencies and a cooler if needed.
Pickup from Kanab lodging is available; if driving in you will meet at the Coral Cliffs Tours office (address provided at booking), or at the House Rock Valley Road and Highway 89 junction if coming from Page.
Expect deep sand, loose rock, sandstone surfaces, elevation gain both ways and no shade on much of the route.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Do I need a permit to visit The Wave?
Yes. A permit is required for Coyote Buttes North; the operator will send a link in your confirmation e-mail where you can obtain the permit.
How long is the tour?
The outing is an 8-hour trip.
How far will we hike?
Expect roughly 6–12 miles round-trip depending on how much hiking and exploration you do.
How difficult is the hike?
The hike is rated 5 out of 5 for difficulty—very hard—and requires physical capability to navigate uneven terrain and long distances.
Where do we meet and can you pick us up?
The operator can pick you up from local Kanab accommodations if you are staying locally; if driving in, meet at the Coral Cliffs Tours office (address provided at booking). For guests from Page, meeting at the House Rock Valley Road and Highway 89 junction is an option.
What should I bring for the hike?
Bring hiking shoes, layered clothing appropriate for the weather, sun protection, your own water and snacks or lunch; the operator carries extra water for emergencies and a cooler if needed.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-08T19:51:17.310Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.