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.
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.
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.