Kanab: South Coyote Buttes Hiking Tour (Permit Required)

Kanab: South Coyote Buttes Hiking Tour (Permit Required)

Location: Arizona, United States
Country: United States
Price: $419 per person
Supplier: Roam Outdoor Adventure Co.

A Quick Glimpse of the Experience

If you’re after dramatic landscapes that look like they belong on another planet, the South Coyote Buttes Hiking Tour offers just that. For $419 per person, and lasting around 8 hours, this guided trek takes you through one of the Southwest’s most captivating areas, with a focus on unique sandstone formations, vivid colors, and intricate crevices. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll walk among undulating waves of rock, marveling at formations that seem sculpted by some ancient artist.

What we really loved about this tour? First, the easier permit process compared to the infamous “The Wave” lottery—making it more accessible for those eager to explore this incredible landscape. Second, the small group size, limited to just six participants, ensures a more personalized experience and plenty of time to soak in the scenery and ask questions.

A potential drawback? Since permits are required and must be secured well in advance (recommend three months ahead), spontaneous plans might not be feasible. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a relaxed, well-organized adventure and are comfortable with easy hikes—nothing too strenuous but enough to feel like you’ve earned every view.

If you’re a landscape photographer, geology enthusiast, or outdoor lover wanting a memorable day in the Southwest with an expert guide, this trip is a great fit.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Easier permit process: No need for complex lotteries—just apply early on recreation.gov.
• Vivid landscapes: Experience striking red, orange, yellow, and pink formations, shaped over millions of years.
• Small group: Limited to six participants, ensuring a more intimate and flexible experience.
• Expert Guidance: Guides share insights into geology, ecology, and cultural history.
• All-day adventure: An 8-hour trip that balances spectacular scenery with comfortable pacing.
• Provided cooler: Hydration is taken care of, but bring your own food to keep energized.

An In-Depth Look at the South Coyote Buttes Hiking Tour

Location and Accessibility

The tour takes place in the remote, rugged terrain of South Coyote Buttes, part of the larger Coyote Buttes area near Kanab, Utah, just across the state border in Arizona. Unlike its more famous sibling “The Wave,” which requires a lottery and can be crowded, South Coyote Buttes offers a less congested, more relaxed experience. The permit process is straightforward — you just need to reserve via recreation.gov, ideally three months in advance—making this a practical alternative for eager adventurers.

Getting to the meeting point is simple. The tour starts at a designated parking lot, conveniently located between Honeys Market Place and Honeys Fuel Center, with parking near back containers. From there, the guide will take you into this vast, otherworldly landscape.

The Itinerary and Terrain

The day begins early, typically in the morning, giving you the best light and cooler temperatures for hiking. The 8-hour itinerary allows plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed. The terrain is classified as easy, which is a relief for most hikers, as it mainly involves walking on well-trodden paths and gentle inclines. No technical skills are needed, just comfortable shoes and a sense of curiosity.

As you traverse the landscape, you’ll encounter vivid sandstone formations that resemble a painter’s palette—deep reds, oranges, yellows, and pinks streak across the rocks. These colors are the result of mineral deposits and natural oxidation, creating a landscape that’s as vibrant as it is ancient.

What makes this area special are the undulating waves and intricate crevices — formations that wind like sculptures sculpted by wind and water over eons. You might find yourself marveling at majestic fins that reach skyward or the delicate patterns carved into the stone. Every angle offers a new perspective, perfect for photography or simply soaking in the beauty.

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Highlights of the Tour

• Vivid, colorful formations that look like a natural artist’s masterpiece
• Undulating sandstone waves with intricate details that showcase geological artistry
• Ancient landscape with a story stretching back millions of years
• Expert guide insights into geology, ecology, and cultural significance
• Personalized experience thanks to the small group size of six or fewer

What We Loved About the Tour

Two aspects stood out to us. First, the permit process—far less hassle than the “The Wave” lottery—and the fact that you don’t need to wait months for a chance to visit this breathtaking site. Second, the small group setting meant the guide could share more insights and allow everyone to ask questions, making the experience more enriching.

Potential Drawback

The main consideration is that permits must be booked early—about three months ahead—so this isn’t a spontaneous adventure. Also, while the hike is classified as easy, it involves a full day outdoors, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate walking and carrying their own snacks.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for photographers looking for dramatic landscapes, geology buffs, or outdoor enthusiasts who want a manageable hike in a stunning setting. It’s particularly attractive for travelers who prefer smaller groups and a more relaxed pace.

Value and Practicalities

Is It Worth the Cost?

At $419 per person, this is a premium price, but it’s justified by the expert guidance, permit access, and the unique landscape. The included cooler with water is a nice touch, keeping hydration simple, but we recommend bringing your own food for energy and snacks. The small group size means more personalized attention and a flexible, tailored experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included: Cooler with water, guiding services, and permit access (which alone can be costly and complicated elsewhere).
Not Included: Your meals—bring your own—and gratuities for your guide, which are always appreciated for excellent service.

The Meeting Point & Timing

Meet at the parking lot between Honeys Market Place and Honeys Fuel Center. The tour runs mainly in the morning, giving you the rest of the day free for other adventures. The 8-hour duration provides enough time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Final Thoughts

If you’re longing for a landscape that looks like it belongs on another planet, with vivid colors and stunning rock formations, this South Coyote Buttes Hiking Tour hits all the right notes. The permit process is manageable, the small group setting makes it intimate, and the scenery is genuinely extraordinary. It offers a wonderful balance of adventure, comfort, and natural beauty, making it a perfect day trip for those who love geology, photography, or simply breathtaking views.

This experience is best for travelers who want an authentic, less crowded alternative to more popular hikes and who appreciate guided trips that add context to their surroundings. Be prepared to walk in a desert landscape and to come away with unforgettable photos and stories.

FAQ

Do I need a permit to join this tour?
Yes, a permit is required, and you must request it via recreation.gov, ideally three months in advance for the best chance at securing one.

How difficult is the hike?
The hike is classified as easy, suitable for most people with moderate fitness. It mainly involves walking on flat or gently rolling terrain.

What should I bring?
Bring your own food, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and perhaps a camera for the stunning views. The tour provides a cooler with water, so hydration is covered.

Where does the tour meet?
The meeting point is in the parking lot between Honeys Market Place and Honeys Fuel Center, near the containers in the back of the lot.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience takes about 8 hours, usually starting in the morning, leaving plenty of time for exploration and photos.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Given the easy terrain and manageable length, it can be suitable for children, but always consider their comfort with outdoor walking and sun exposure.

Can I book the tour and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, allowing flexibility for your travel plans.

In the end, this tour offers a rare chance to discover some of the Southwest’s most captivating natural art. With fantastic scenery, an easy hike, and a small group experience, it’s a worthwhile addition to any desert adventure itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: