Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness wilderness guide
Wilderness Area · AZ, UT

Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness

Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness offers breathtaking landscapes with its colorful cliffs and narrow canyons, making it a haven for hikers and photographers.

Wilderness Area112,5004+ Trails

Designation

Wilderness Area

Total Wilderness Area

112,500

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness

Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness offers breathtaking landscapes with its colorful cliffs and narrow canyons, making it a haven for hikers and photographers.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness spans over 112,500 acres across Arizona and Utah, known for its striking geological formations including the iconic Wave and Buckskin Gulch, one of the longest slot canyons in the world. The area showcases powerful erosional forces, creating vibrant sandstone cliffs and deep canyons that attract adventurers and nature lovers. This wilderness area harbors a rich ecological environment with species like bighorn sheep and golden eagles. History buffs can appreciate the Native American petroglyphs scattered throughout the region and remnants of early explorer trails. Popular recreational activities include hiking through labyrinthine canyons, photography of the unique rock formations, and camping under the expansive desert sky. Due to its raw natural beauty and challenging terrain, the wilderness provides a profound experience for those seeking solitude and immersion in the grandeur of the desert.

Field Guide · Wilderness Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The Wave, famous for its surreal, undulating rock formations.✦ Buckskin Gulch, noted for being one of the longest and most challenging slot canyons.✦ White Pocket, a geologic formation with swirling colors and patterns in the rock.✦ Coyote Buttes, known for its intricate rock formations and limited access.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Permits are required for The Wave and some other areas; fees apply.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Stateline Campground

Situated near the trailheads of popular hiking areas, accessible with basic amenities.

White House Campground

Located near the entrance of Paria Canyon, offers few facilities but is a great base for exploration.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Big Water, Utah
⌖ 16.58 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Big Water, Utah

Big Water, Utah is a desert adventurer’s gateway to Lake Powell and Glen Canyon’s striking red rock canyons. Here, boating, hiking, off-roading, and stargazing come alive in a remote setting full of wild beauty.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Marble Canyon, Arizona
⌖ 23.67 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Marble Canyon, Arizona

Marble Canyon in Arizona offers stunning views and thrilling adventures along the Colorado River. Enjoy hiking, rafting, and climbing amidst breathtaking natural beauty in this secluded area.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Page, Arizona
⌖ 26.91 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Page, Arizona

Page, Arizona is a gateway to some of the Southwest's most awe-inspiring natural wonders. Explore the famous Antelope Canyon, paddle on Lake Powell, and marvel at the Horseshoe Bend for unforgettable outdoor adventures.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Page, AZ
⌖ 26.91 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Page, AZ

Page, AZ, offers a thrilling adventure hub for exploring slot canyons, paddling on Lake Powell, and capturing epic vistas. With iconic rock formations and sprawling desert landscapes, it’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
LeChee, Arizona
⌖ 29.51 miles
Gateway Basecamp

LeChee, Arizona

LeChee, Arizona offers rugged desert adventures on Navajo lands with canyoneering, hiking scenic red rock formations, and rich Navajo cultural experiences. Ideal in spring and fall, it’s a gateway to secret slot canyons and striking landscapes.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Cannonville, Utah
⌖ 34.00 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Cannonville, Utah

Cannonville, Utah, a hidden gem for outdoor lovers, offers access to breathtaking desert landscapes and adventure sports like hiking, mountain biking, and canyoneering in world-renowned parks.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Waves of Stone: A Quiet Hike to The Wave from Kanab
ADVEXPEDITION
Kanab, Utah
HikingADV Bookable

Waves of Stone: A Quiet Hike to The Wave from Kanab

A focused guide to The Wave Tour in Kanab, Utah — the limited‑access hike to mesmerizing red‑and‑white sandstone and what you must know about permits and preparation.

HikingPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Sand, Shadow, and Speed: UTV to Peek‑A‑Boo Slot Canyon
ADVEXPEDITION
Escalante, Utah
ATV/UTVADV Bookable

Sand, Shadow, and Speed: UTV to Peek‑A‑Boo Slot Canyon

A 2.5‑hour UTV and sandboarding outing from Escalante that combines an adrenaline dune run with a short hike into a 100‑foot‑plus sandstone slot canyon — this guide orients you to what to expect and how to prepare.

ATV/UTVPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip