Today, we’re cheating a little bit. We typically bring you Utah adventures, but today’s adventure is technically in Arizona, right across the border. If you’re an avid hiker and explorer in Utah, you’ve probably either hiked The Wave or put it on your bucket list. It’s a one-of-a-kind adventure for sure, but it can be hard to get a permit.
Here’s a spot close to The Wave that visitors say is every bit as stunning, and you’re much more likely to be able to visit. Check it out!
South Coyote Buttes is just over the Utah/Arizona border.
Google Permits for the area are required, and are issued by the Bureau of Land Management. Click here for more information.
To reach South Coyote Buttes, travel from Kanab along US-89.
Peter G/Tripadvisor You’ll need a four-wheel-drive vehicle to make it to this remote spot. Drive 40 miles along US-89, then turn onto House Rock Road. Travel along this dirt road for 17 miles until you see the unmarked turnoff.
South Coyote Buttes has very similar topography as The Wave - the sandstone has been shaped and molded into striations and ridges that make for interesting hiking and excellent opportunities for photographs.
Jill G/Tripadvisor
Like much of Southern Utah’s rock formations, these have been shaped by thousands of years of erosion.
Hoben01/Tripadvisor
Take the Paw Hole Trail, where you’ll get an up-close look at the terrain and its many unique rock formations.
SClarke43/Tripadvisor
This is Dali Rock (aka The Control Tower), one of the most iconic features along the trail.
John Fowler (away)/flickr
Not everyone gets the chance to enjoy this jaw-dropping scenery. Take your time to explore South Coyote Buttes.
maryTraun/Tripadvisor
The sure-footed bighorn sheep who live here will make you feel like a clumsy oaf in comparison.
Russ H/Tripadvisor
The grandeur of this place will make you feel happy to be alive (and you won’t miss The Wave for a moment, once you’re here).
Olenka1980/Tripadvisor
Make sure that you’re adequately prepared for this once-in-a-lifetime hike.
Slorin721/Tripadvisor It goes without saying that you’ll need plenty of water in this hot, dry landscape. Make sure that you also have a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the damaging rays. Hike with a friend, or let a loved one know where you’ll be and when to expect you back. This wild pace is incredibly beautiful, but it’s not for the foolhardy. If you don’t have adequate experience to take this adventure alone, contact a guide service.
Have you ever explored South Coyote Buttes? We’d love to hear about your experience there!
Permits for the area are required, and are issued by the Bureau of Land Management. Click here for more information.
Peter G/Tripadvisor
You’ll need a four-wheel-drive vehicle to make it to this remote spot. Drive 40 miles along US-89, then turn onto House Rock Road. Travel along this dirt road for 17 miles until you see the unmarked turnoff.
Jill G/Tripadvisor
Hoben01/Tripadvisor
SClarke43/Tripadvisor
John Fowler (away)/flickr
maryTraun/Tripadvisor
Russ H/Tripadvisor
Olenka1980/Tripadvisor
Slorin721/Tripadvisor
It goes without saying that you’ll need plenty of water in this hot, dry landscape. Make sure that you also have a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the damaging rays. Hike with a friend, or let a loved one know where you’ll be and when to expect you back. This wild pace is incredibly beautiful, but it’s not for the foolhardy. If you don’t have adequate experience to take this adventure alone, contact a guide service.
If you love to explore Southern Utah, here’s a road that offers incredible views, and some white-knuckle driving.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
