Vermilion Cliffs National Monument Videos
Reviewed and updated by AZ Leisure Staff Writers on .
The Wave at Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. © Mike KoopsenThese Vermilion Cliffs National Monument videos provide a visual introduction to The Wave, Coyote Buttes, Paria Canyon and the remote backcountry of northern Arizona. The monument is known for dramatic sandstone formations, undeveloped wilderness and rugged access roads, so watching current trip-planning and hiking videos can help visitors better understand the terrain before arriving.
Vermilion Cliffs is remote backcountry with few services, rugged roads and areas that have no developed trails. Visitors should plan carefully for navigation, weather, flash flooding, deep sand and limited cell service. Permits are required for Coyote Buttes North, Coyote Buttes South and overnight trips in Paria Canyon, while Paria Canyon day use also requires a permit. BLM recommends carrying plenty of water, food, fuel and emergency supplies when traveling into the monument.
Watch the videos below for an overview of the monument, The Wave and Coyote Buttes before planning your trip. Because permit procedures, road conditions and access rules can change, always confirm current information with the Bureau of Land Management before traveling.
- Vermilion Cliffs Overview Video
- The Wave Video
- Coyote Buttes South Video
- Permit Information
- Planning & Safety
- Guides & Tours
- FAQ
Vermilion Cliffs National Monument Video
This overview video introduces the dramatic sandstone landscape, remote wilderness setting and major recreation areas associated with Vermilion Cliffs National Monument.
The Wave At Coyote Buttes North Video
The Wave is located within the Coyote Buttes North permit area of the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. A permit is required, and the suggested hiking route is approximately 6.4 miles round trip through undeveloped terrain with no maintained trail.
Coyote Buttes South Video
Coyote Buttes South is a separate permit area with colorful sandstone formations and remote backcountry scenery. It does not include The Wave, and a Coyote Buttes South permit does not provide access to Coyote Buttes North.
Vermilion Cliffs Permit Information
Several popular destinations associated with Vermilion Cliffs require permits, and each permit area has separate rules.
- Coyote Buttes North - The Wave: A day-use permit is required and permits are distributed through advance and daily lottery systems.
- Coyote Buttes South: A separate day-use permit is required and does not include access to The Wave.
- Paria Canyon day use: A day-use permit is required.
- Paria Canyon overnight trips: An advance overnight permit is required and visitor numbers are limited.
Permit procedures and availability can change. Check the BLM Arizona permit information before planning your trip.
Planning & Safety Before Visiting
- Prepare for remote travel: Many monument roads are unpaved, unmarked and subject to deep sand, mud and storm damage.
- Carry extra supplies: Bring plenty of water, food, fuel and a full-size spare tire.
- Check weather conditions: Flash flooding can occur in Paria Canyon and other narrow drainages.
- Do not rely on cell service: Coverage is limited or unavailable in many parts of the monument.
- Know your route: Coyote Buttes and other backcountry areas may have no maintained trails.
- Use an authorized guide if needed: Visitors unfamiliar with desert navigation or rugged road conditions may benefit from a permitted professional outfitter or guide.
Vermilion Cliffs Guides & Tours
Private guides can assist with transportation, navigation, hiking and photography. Verify that any guide or outfitter is currently authorized to operate in the area you plan to visit.
Vermilion Cliffs Videos FAQ
Where is The Wave located?
The Wave is located in the Coyote Buttes North permit area of the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness in northern Arizona.
Do you need a permit to hike to The Wave?
Yes. A permit is required to enter Coyote Buttes North and visit The Wave. Permits are distributed through advance and daily lottery systems.
Is The Wave at Coyote Buttes South?
No. The Wave is located at Coyote Buttes North. Coyote Buttes South is a separate permit area with its own sandstone formations and requires a separate permit.
How long is the hike to The Wave?
The Bureau of Land Management describes the suggested route to The Wave as approximately 6.4 miles round trip through undeveloped wilderness terrain.
Are there marked trails at Coyote Buttes?
No. Coyote Buttes is undeveloped backcountry without maintained trails or developed facilities, so visitors should be prepared to navigate independently.
Do you need a permit for Paria Canyon?
Yes. Paria Canyon requires a permit for day use, and overnight trips require an advance permit.
Do you need four-wheel drive at Vermilion Cliffs?
Vehicle requirements depend on the destination and road conditions. Many backcountry roads are rugged, sandy or muddy, and high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles may be necessary in difficult conditions.
Should you hire a guide for Vermilion Cliffs?
A guide is not required for every destination, but visitors unfamiliar with desert navigation, rugged roads or backcountry hiking may benefit from using an authorized professional guide.
Information Relating To Vermilion Cliffs
Guided Hiking and Photography Tours
Dreamland Tours and Guides
Related Lake Powell-Page Interest
Lake Powell-Page
Map & Directions Vermilion Cliffs
Vermilion Cliffs Photos
Vermilion Cliffs National Monument
