Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness Guide
Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness: Hike into a Landscape of Unparalleled Beauty Guide
Escape the crowds and immerse yourself in the raw, untamed beauty of the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. This vast and dramatic landscape, stretching across southern Utah and northern Arizona, is a haven for hikers, backpackers, and nature lovers seeking solitude and adventure. Towering sandstone cliffs, sculpted by wind and water over millennia, create a breathtaking backdrop for exploring slot canyons, hidden springs, and ancient Native American sites. Prepare to be humbled by the sheer scale and grandeur of this protected wilderness area. The Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness is a land steeped in history. For centuries, Native American tribes, including the Ancestral Puebloans and later the Paiute, called this area home, leaving behind traces of their presence in the form of rock art and ancient dwellings. In more recent times, the area was explored by early pioneers and ranchers, who carved out a living in this harsh but beautiful environment. Today, the wilderness is managed to preserve its natural and cultural resources for future generations. The primary activity in the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness is hiking and backpacking. The most popular hike is the multi-day trek through Paria Canyon, a stunning slot canyon carved by the Paria River. Permits are required for overnight trips and are highly competitive, so plan well in advance. Other activities include exploring Buckskin Gulch, one of the longest and deepest slot canyons in the world, and visiting the iconic Wave, a swirling sandstone formation (also requiring a permit). Remember to be prepared for challenging conditions, including extreme temperatures, flash floods, and limited water sources. There are no culinary traditions directly associated with the wilderness area, so pack your own food and water.
Transportation
Access to the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness varies depending on the specific trailhead. Many trailheads are located off Highway 89A and require driving on unpaved roads, often requiring high-clearance vehicles. The White House Trailhead, a popular entry point for Paria Canyon, is located about 45 miles east of Kanab. The Wire Pass Trailhead, leading to Buckskin Gulch and The Wave, is located about 35 miles east of Kanab. Check road conditions and weather forecasts before heading out. There is no public transportation to these trailheads.
Ticket Price
Permits required for overnight trips and The Wave. Permit fees vary.