Nestled on the northern edge of Arizona, Vermillion Cliffs National Monument stands as one of the Southwest’s most breathtaking natural treasures. Spanning 294,000 acres of protected wilderness, this remarkable landscape offers photographers and adventurers alike an opportunity to experience scenery that rivals many national parks in its beauty and diversity.
The Magnificent Routes of Vermillion Cliffs
Wirepass Trail: Gateway to Wonder
The Wirepass trailhead serves as the starting point for two distinctly different but equally rewarding hiking experiences. To reach this pivotal location, drive west from Page, Arizona or east from Kanab, Utah on Route 89 until you reach House Rock Road. Turn south and continue approximately 8-8.5 miles to the parking area on your right. From there, cross the road, descend into the dry wash, and turn left to begin your adventure.
Buckskin Gulch: The Slot Canyon Experience
At the T-intersection marked by a high rock wall, turn right to enter the renowned Buckskin Gulch. This narrow slot canyon offers spectacular photography opportunities but requires careful planning. The best photography conditions occur on bright, sunny days when light streams through the narrow opening above, creating a warm glow as it reflects off the multi-hued rock walls. For the most striking images, compose your shots to exclude the sky and focus instead on the interplay of light, shadow, and the canyon’s vibrant colors.
Be mindful that slot canyons are prone to flash flooding, so always check weather forecasts thoroughly before entering. Carry plenty of water and prepare for a memorable journey through one of nature’s most impressive sculptures.
The Wave and North Coyote Buttes: A Photographer’s Dream
The alternative route from the Wirepass trailhead leads to North Coyote Buttes, home to the iconic Wave formation. This area requires a permit from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), available through an online lottery 4-6 months in advance or on a limited basis 1-2 days before your visit at the BLM/Interagency ranger station east of Kanab.
For photographers, a range of lenses from 20mm to 100mm (full-frame equivalent) will help capture the area’s sweeping landscapes and intricate details. A sturdy tripod is essential, as is carrying at least two liters of water per person. The Wave itself features a remarkable depression that occasionally fills with rainwater, creating stunning reflection opportunities.
As you explore beyond the Wave, discover the unique swirled sandstone formation approximately 150 yards above, best photographed just before sunset when the light creates dramatic shadows across the undulating rock.
South Coyote Buttes: Off the Beaten Path
Less frequented but equally spectacular, South Coyote Buttes demands more serious transportation. Access requires a four-wheel-drive vehicle with good clearance and preferably off-road tires to navigate sections of sand and bare rock. The reward for this extra effort is remarkable cone-shaped formations known as “teepees” and numerous photographic compositions away from the crowds.
Nearby Photographic Treasures
Lake Powell and Gunsight Butte
For additional photographic opportunities, visit Gunsight Butte on Lake Powell’s edge. This distinctive rock formation creates perfect panoramic compositions depending on water levels and lighting conditions. To reach a viewpoint, drive north through Big Water, Utah and navigate the network of unpaved roads toward the lakeshore. GPS navigation is highly recommended for this journey.
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Planning Your Visit
Most locations described are accessible with standard passenger vehicles on well-maintained unpaved roads, with South Coyote Buttes being the exception. For accommodations, both Page, Arizona and Kanab, Utah offer numerous lodging options and restaurants. Page is particularly convenient as it features several photogenic locations within the town limits.
As you explore these breathtaking landscapes, remember to practice “Leave No Trace” principles. The fragile sandstone formations have suffered from increased visitation over the years, making responsible tourism essential to preserving their beauty for future generations.
Whether you’re capturing the ethereal light of Buckskin Gulch, the flowing forms of the Wave, or the dramatic silhouette of Gunsight Butte, Vermillion Cliffs National Monument offers photographic experiences that rival those of any national park in the American Southwest.
