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GETTING A PERMIT FOR YOUR ADVENTURE AT THE WAVE

a close up of a canyon with Vermilion Cliffs National Monument in the background

If you are planning to visit Coyote Buttes North, also known as The Wave, you will need a permit to access this popular hiking destination in the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument in Arizona. The unique sandstone formation attracts thousands of visitors each year, but the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) strictly limits the number of daily visitors to protect the area’s delicate ecosystem. To get a permit, there are only two possible options: The Coyote Buttes North Daily Lottery or the Coyote Buttes North Advanced Lottery.

The Coyote Buttes North Daily Lottery

The Coyote Buttes North Daily Lottery, also known as The Wave Lottery, is a same-day drawing that allows hikers to compete for a limited number of permits available for two days before the day of your hike. The lottery application window is open from 6 am to 6 pm two days before the desired hiking date. For example, if you want to hike on March 29th, you would need to apply on March 27th between 6 am and 6 pm.

To apply for the Daily Lottery, you will need a mobile device, as desktop or laptop computers will not work. You must be in the geofence area to apply, which can be found on the BLM’s (Bureau Of Land Management) website. Outdated Recreation.gov mobile apps may cause issues with payment, so make sure to use the most up-to-date version. Each application costs $9 per person, and you can apply for up to six people. Only 16 people and/or four groups (whichever comes first) receive permits through the Daily Lottery each day, so the odds of winning can be pretty challenging.

1. DOWNLOAD THE APP

To participate in the daily lottery, you must have a mobile phone and use the Recreation.gov app. Therefore, please download the app and create an account, as this functionality is not available on a computer.

2. SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION

To apply for a permit, you need to pay a non-refundable fee of $9.00 and submit your application at least two days before your planned hiking date. It’s essential to be within the geofence area and submit your application between 6 am and 6 pm during the lottery application window. After submission, you’re free to explore outside the geofence but keep an eye on notifications. You can apply for the permit online.

If you win the lottery, you’ll be notified by email at 7:15 pm (UT) on the same day (Day One). A recreation fee of $7.00 per person or dog is required and can be paid online while completing additional information after successfully winning. Dogs don’t count against the quota but must be included on the permit. Every individual, including non-walking infants, must be included in the permit. Payment for recreation fees is only required if you’re awarded a permit through the lottery.

If you’re a successful applicant, you must accept the permit and pay the fees by 8 am (UT) the next day (Day Two) on Recreation.gov.

3. PICK UP YOUR PERMIT

You need to be present in Kanab, UT or Page, AZ at 8:30 AM sharp (local time) on Day Two to attend the mandatory safety briefing and collect your actual permit.

If the primary permit holder is unable to make the trip on the permit date, only the alternate permit holders listed on the application can use the permit. If neither the primary nor alternate permit holder is present, the permit will be considered invalid.

4. WHERE TO PICK UP YOUR PERMIT

  • KANAB, UTAH

    To pick up your permit in Kanab visit: The Kanab Center, 20 N 100 E, Kanab, UT 84741.

  • PAGE, ARIZONA

    To pick up your permit in Page, go to Page-Lake Powell HUB, 48 S Lake Powell Blvd, Page, AZ 86040.

The Coyote Buttes North Advanced Lottery

The Coyote Buttes North Advanced Lottery is another option for hikers who prefer to plan their trip in advance. This lottery allows visitors to apply for permits four months in advance of their desired hiking date. The application window opens on the first day of each month for the following four months. For example, if you want to hike on July 15th, you would need to apply between March 1st and March 31st.

To apply for the Advanced Lottery, you can use any device with an internet connection, and you don’t need to be in the geofence area. Each application costs $9 per person, and you can apply for up to six people. The Advanced Lottery is more competitive, with 48 people and/or 12 groups (whichever comes first) receiving permits each day.

It’s worth noting that the Advanced Lottery has a much higher success rate than the Daily Lottery. However, it requires more planning and patience since you must apply four months in advance. On the other hand, the Daily Lottery can be a more spontaneous option for travelers who happen to be in the area and want to try their luck at winning a permit for the following day.

Things To Keep In Mind While Planning Your Trip

Whether you choose the Daily or Advanced Lottery, there are a few things you should keep in mind when planning your visit to The Wave. First, the hike is considered challenging, so make sure you’re prepared with plenty of water, food, and appropriate gear. Second, the area is incredibly fragile, so be mindful of where you step and avoid touching or removing any rocks or plants. Lastly, be respectful of other hikers and follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the area’s natural beauty for future visitors.

Weigh Out The Pros And Cons Of The Daily Or Advanced Lottery When Planning Your Trip

If you’re planning to visit Coyote Buttes North and experience The Wave’s natural beauty, you’ll need to secure a permit through either the Daily or Advanced Lottery. Both options have their pros and cons, so choose the one that works best for your travel style and schedule. Remember to prepare for the hike, respect the environment, and enjoy the unique experience of exploring one of Arizona’s most iconic landmarks.

Book An Off-Road Tour With Expedition Kanab To Get The Most Out Of The Wave

Come join Expedition Kanab for an unforgettable journey, where you will discover one of the most sought-after hidden gems in the world: The Wave. Located on the border of Arizona and Utah near Kanab, Utah, this unique geological formation is a mesmerizing sight that should not be missed. Before venturing out, make sure to obtain a permit to access this area. We can provide all the necessary information for your off-road tour of The Wave. With us as your guide, you’ll experience an exhilarating journey filled with stunning views that will leave you breathless!

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