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Vermilion Cliffs National Monument – Image Gallery

American pipit at Vermilion Cliffs National Monument Photo by Geoffrey Walsh/Bureau of Land Management Arizona.
Before highways and railways, before pioneers....the land we know as the United States was truly a vast wilderness. To protect these last remaining areas, in 1984 Congress created the Paria Canyon - Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. Coyote Buttes' outstanding scenery, desert wildlife, colorful history, and opportunities for primitive recreation will remain free from the influence of man and are protected in this condition for future generations. Its 112,500 acres beckon adventurers who yearn for solitude, scenic splendor, and the chance to explore one of the most beautiful geologic formations in the world. A permit is required to visit Coyote Buttes. Due to overwhelming demand, Coyote Buttes North ("The Wave") permits are available through a lottery. For additional information visit www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/permits-and-passes/lotter.... Photo by Bob Wick, BLM.
Before highways and railways, before pioneers....the land we know as the United States was truly a vast wilderness. To protect these last remaining areas, in 1984 Congress created the Paria Canyon - Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. Coyote Buttes' outstanding scenery, desert wildlife, colorful history, and opportunities for primitive recreation will remain free from the influence of man and are protected in this condition for future generations. Its 112,500 acres beckon adventurers who yearn for solitude, scenic splendor, and the chance to explore one of the most beautiful geologic formations in the world. A permit is required to visit Coyote Buttes. Due to overwhelming demand, Coyote Buttes North ("The Wave") permits are available through a lottery. For additional information visit www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/permits-and-passes/lotter.... Photo by Bob Wick, BLM.
Before highways and railways, before pioneers....the land we know as the United States was truly a vast wilderness. To protect these last remaining areas, in 1984 Congress created the Paria Canyon - Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. Coyote Buttes' outstanding scenery, desert wildlife, colorful history, and opportunities for primitive recreation will remain free from the influence of man and are protected in this condition for future generations. Its 112,500 acres beckon adventurers who yearn for solitude, scenic splendor, and the chance to explore one of the most beautiful geologic formations in the world. A permit is required to visit Coyote Buttes. Due to overwhelming demand, Coyote Buttes North ("The Wave") permits are available through a lottery. For additional information visit www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/permits-and-passes/lotter.... Photo by Bob Wick, BLM.
Before highways and railways, before pioneers....the land we know as the United States was truly a vast wilderness. To protect these last remaining areas, in 1984 Congress created the Paria Canyon - Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. Coyote Buttes' outstanding scenery, desert wildlife, colorful history, and opportunities for primitive recreation will remain free from the influence of man and are protected in this condition for future generations. Its 112,500 acres beckon adventurers who yearn for solitude, scenic splendor, and the chance to explore one of the most beautiful geologic formations in the world. A permit is required to visit Coyote Buttes. Due to overwhelming demand, Coyote Buttes North ("The Wave") permits are available through a lottery. For additional information visit www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/permits-and-passes/lotter.... Photo by Bob Wick, BLM.
Before highways and railways, before pioneers....the land we know as the United States was truly a vast wilderness. To protect these last remaining areas, in 1984 Congress created the Paria Canyon - Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. Coyote Buttes' outstanding scenery, desert wildlife, colorful history, and opportunities for primitive recreation will remain free from the influence of man and are protected in this condition for future generations. Its 112,500 acres beckon adventurers who yearn for solitude, scenic splendor, and the chance to explore one of the most beautiful geologic formations in the world. A permit is required to visit Coyote Buttes. Due to overwhelming demand, Coyote Buttes North ("The Wave") permits are available through a lottery. For additional information visit www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/permits-and-passes/lotter.... Photo by Bob Wick, BLM.
Before highways and railways, before pioneers....the land we know as the United States was truly a vast wilderness. To protect these last remaining areas, in 1984 Congress created the Paria Canyon - Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. Coyote Buttes' outstanding scenery, desert wildlife, colorful history, and opportunities for primitive recreation will remain free from the influence of man and are protected in this condition for future generations. Its 112,500 acres beckon adventurers who yearn for solitude, scenic splendor, and the chance to explore one of the most beautiful geologic formations in the world. A permit is required to visit Coyote Buttes. Due to overwhelming demand, Coyote Buttes North ("The Wave") permits are available through a lottery. For additional information visit www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/permits-and-passes/lotter.... Photo by Bob WIck, BLM.
Before highways and railways, before pioneers....the land we know as the United States was truly a vast wilderness. To protect these last remaining areas, in 1984 Congress created the Paria Canyon - Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. Coyote Buttes' outstanding scenery, desert wildlife, colorful history, and opportunities for primitive recreation will remain free from the influence of man and are protected in this condition for future generations. Its 112,500 acres beckon adventurers who yearn for solitude, scenic splendor, and the chance to explore one of the most beautiful geologic formations in the world. A permit is required to visit Coyote Buttes. Due to overwhelming demand, Coyote Buttes North ("The Wave") permits are available through a lottery. For additional information visit www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/permits-and-passes/lotter.... Photo by Bob Wick, BLM.
#mypubliclandsroadtrip ends the day with the scenic and geological wonders of the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument! Located on the Colorado Plateau in northern Arizona, Vermilion Cliffs National Monument includes the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. Nationally known for its beauty, the Paria Canyon has towering walls streaked with desert varnish, huge red rock amphitheaters, sandstone arches, wooded terraces and hanging gardens. The 3,000-foot escarpment known as the Vermilion Cliffs dominates the remainder of the wilderness with its thick Navajo sandstone face, rugged arroyos and stark overall appearance. Some of the best slot canyon hiking opportunities on the Colorado Plateau are found here. The northwest portion of the wilderness includes Coyote Buttes and The Wave, an area of spectacular scenery displaying domes, aprons, fins and a variety of small fragile rock sculptures carved in colorful swirling cross bedded sandstone. The variety of colors and textures in the rock formations within the wilderness constantly change with variations in light and weather. Photo by Bob Wick, BLM
Robert "Bob" Bate, Vermilion Cliffs National Monument manager, speaks to a crowd at the 28th annual California condor release event at the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument on National Public Lands Day on Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024. Photo by Michelle Ailport/Bureau of Land Management Arizona.


Vermilion Cliffs National Monument

The Vermilion Cliffs National Monument in Arizona is a stunning red sandstone landscape with towering cliffs and unique rock formations.

Details

Vermilion Cliffs National Monument

The Vermilion Cliffs National Monument is located in northern Arizona and spans over 280,000 acres of stunning desert landscape. The monument is known for its vibrant red sandstone cliffs, deep canyons, and unique rock formations that draw visitors from around the world.

Features:

  • Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness: This designated wilderness area covers over 100,000 acres within the monument and is known for its rugged terrain, slot canyons, and towering cliffs. Hiking and backpacking opportunities abound in this pristine wilderness area.
  • The Wave: One of the most iconic rock formations in the monument, The Wave is a stunning sandstone formation with swirling patterns that resemble ocean waves. Access to The Wave is limited and requires a permit due to its popularity.
  • White Pocket: Another popular rock formation within the monument, White Pocket features unique swirling sandstone formations in shades of white, red, and orange. The area is a favorite among photographers for its otherworldly landscapes.
  • Colorado River Corridor: The monument also includes a section of the Colorado River corridor, providing opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing along the river.

Ecological Significance:

The Vermilion Cliffs National Monument is home to a diverse array of plant and animal species, many of which are adapted to the harsh desert environment. The monument provides important habitat for species such as bighorn sheep, California condors, and desert tortoises.

The unique geology of the area also contributes to its ecological significance, with layers of rock dating back millions of years. The monument's rock formations and canyons provide important nesting sites for birds of prey and other wildlife.

Overall, the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument is a place of great natural beauty and ecological importance, offering visitors a chance to explore and appreciate the wonders of the desert Southwest.



Vermilion Cliffs National Monument

Points of Interest

Most Popular Points of Interest in Vermilion Cliffs National Monument

  • The Wave: One of the most iconic and sought-after attractions in the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, The Wave is a stunning sandstone formation that resembles a wave frozen in time. Visitors must enter a lottery system to obtain permits to hike to The Wave, as only a limited number of people are allowed to visit each day.
  • White Pocket: Another popular destination in the national monument, White Pocket is a unique and otherworldly landscape of swirling red and white sandstone formations. Visitors can explore the area on foot and marvel at the intricate patterns and colors of the rocks.
  • Buckskin Gulch: Known as one of the longest and deepest slot canyons in the world, Buckskin Gulch offers a challenging but rewarding hiking experience. The narrow canyon walls soar high above, creating a surreal and captivating environment for hikers to explore.
  • Paria Canyon: A picturesque canyon that stretches for miles, Paria Canyon is a popular destination for backpackers and hikers looking to immerse themselves in the rugged beauty of the desert landscape. Visitors can hike along the Paria River, which flows through the canyon, and enjoy the solitude and tranquility of this remote wilderness area.
  • North Coyote Buttes: Home to a variety of stunning rock formations, including the famous "The Wave," North Coyote Buttes is a must-see destination for visitors to the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. Hiking through the area, visitors can marvel at the unique shapes and colors of the sandstone rocks that make up this beautiful landscape.



Vermilion Cliffs National Monument – Images

American pipit at Vermilion Cliffs National Monument Photo by Geoffrey Walsh/Bureau of Land Management Arizona.

Description: American pipit at Vermilion Cliffs National Monument Photo by Geoffrey Walsh/Bureau of Land Management Arizona.

Image by BLMArizona – Public domain – Wikimedia

Before highways and railways, before pioneers....the land we know as the United States was truly a vast wilderness. To protect these last remaining areas, in 1984 Congress created the Paria Canyon - Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. Coyote Buttes' outstanding scenery, desert wildlife, colorful history, and opportunities for primitive recreation will remain free from the influence of man and are protected in this condition for future generations. Its 112,500 acres beckon adventurers who yearn for solitude, scenic splendor, and the chance to explore one of the most beautiful geologic formations in the world. A permit is required to visit Coyote Buttes. Due to overwhelming demand, Coyote Buttes North ("The Wave") permits are available through a lottery. For additional information visit www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/permits-and-passes/lotter.... Photo by Bob Wick, BLM.

Description: Before highways and railways, before pioneers....the land we know as the United States was truly a vast wilderness. To protect these last remaining areas, in 1984 Congress created the Paria Canyon - Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. Coyote Buttes' outstanding scenery, desert wildlife, colorful history, and opportunities for primitive recreation will remain free from the influence of man and are protected in this condition for future generations. Its 112,500 acres beckon adventurers who yearn for solitude, scenic splendor, and the chance to explore one of the most beautiful geologic formations in the world. A permit is required to visit Coyote Buttes. Due to overwhelming demand, Coyote Buttes North ("The Wave") permits are available through a lottery. For additional information visit www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/permits-and-passes/lotter.... Photo by Bob Wick, BLM.

Image by BLMArizona – Public domain – Wikimedia

Before highways and railways, before pioneers....the land we know as the United States was truly a vast wilderness. To protect these last remaining areas, in 1984 Congress created the Paria Canyon - Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. Coyote Buttes' outstanding scenery, desert wildlife, colorful history, and opportunities for primitive recreation will remain free from the influence of man and are protected in this condition for future generations. Its 112,500 acres beckon adventurers who yearn for solitude, scenic splendor, and the chance to explore one of the most beautiful geologic formations in the world. A permit is required to visit Coyote Buttes. Due to overwhelming demand, Coyote Buttes North ("The Wave") permits are available through a lottery. For additional information visit www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/permits-and-passes/lotter.... Photo by Bob Wick, BLM.

Description: Before highways and railways, before pioneers....the land we know as the United States was truly a vast wilderness. To protect these last remaining areas, in 1984 Congress created the Paria Canyon - Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. Coyote Buttes' outstanding scenery, desert wildlife, colorful history, and opportunities for primitive recreation will remain free from the influence of man and are protected in this condition for future generations. Its 112,500 acres beckon adventurers who yearn for solitude, scenic splendor, and the chance to explore one of the most beautiful geologic formations in the world. A permit is required to visit Coyote Buttes. Due to overwhelming demand, Coyote Buttes North ("The Wave") permits are available through a lottery. For additional information visit www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/permits-and-passes/lotter.... Photo by Bob Wick, BLM.

Image by BLMArizona – Public domain – Wikimedia

Before highways and railways, before pioneers....the land we know as the United States was truly a vast wilderness. To protect these last remaining areas, in 1984 Congress created the Paria Canyon - Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. Coyote Buttes' outstanding scenery, desert wildlife, colorful history, and opportunities for primitive recreation will remain free from the influence of man and are protected in this condition for future generations. Its 112,500 acres beckon adventurers who yearn for solitude, scenic splendor, and the chance to explore one of the most beautiful geologic formations in the world. A permit is required to visit Coyote Buttes. Due to overwhelming demand, Coyote Buttes North ("The Wave") permits are available through a lottery. For additional information visit www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/permits-and-passes/lotter.... Photo by Bob Wick, BLM.

Description: Before highways and railways, before pioneers....the land we know as the United States was truly a vast wilderness. To protect these last remaining areas, in 1984 Congress created the Paria Canyon - Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. Coyote Buttes' outstanding scenery, desert wildlife, colorful history, and opportunities for primitive recreation will remain free from the influence of man and are protected in this condition for future generations. Its 112,500 acres beckon adventurers who yearn for solitude, scenic splendor, and the chance to explore one of the most beautiful geologic formations in the world. A permit is required to visit Coyote Buttes. Due to overwhelming demand, Coyote Buttes North ("The Wave") permits are available through a lottery. For additional information visit www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/permits-and-passes/lotter.... Photo by Bob Wick, BLM.

Image by BLMArizona – Public domain – Wikimedia

Before highways and railways, before pioneers....the land we know as the United States was truly a vast wilderness. To protect these last remaining areas, in 1984 Congress created the Paria Canyon - Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. Coyote Buttes' outstanding scenery, desert wildlife, colorful history, and opportunities for primitive recreation will remain free from the influence of man and are protected in this condition for future generations. Its 112,500 acres beckon adventurers who yearn for solitude, scenic splendor, and the chance to explore one of the most beautiful geologic formations in the world. A permit is required to visit Coyote Buttes. Due to overwhelming demand, Coyote Buttes North ("The Wave") permits are available through a lottery. For additional information visit www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/permits-and-passes/lotter.... Photo by Bob Wick, BLM.

Description: Before highways and railways, before pioneers....the land we know as the United States was truly a vast wilderness. To protect these last remaining areas, in 1984 Congress created the Paria Canyon - Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. Coyote Buttes' outstanding scenery, desert wildlife, colorful history, and opportunities for primitive recreation will remain free from the influence of man and are protected in this condition for future generations. Its 112,500 acres beckon adventurers who yearn for solitude, scenic splendor, and the chance to explore one of the most beautiful geologic formations in the world. A permit is required to visit Coyote Buttes. Due to overwhelming demand, Coyote Buttes North ("The Wave") permits are available through a lottery. For additional information visit www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/permits-and-passes/lotter.... Photo by Bob Wick, BLM.

Image by BLMArizona – Public domain – Wikimedia

Before highways and railways, before pioneers....the land we know as the United States was truly a vast wilderness. To protect these last remaining areas, in 1984 Congress created the Paria Canyon - Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. Coyote Buttes' outstanding scenery, desert wildlife, colorful history, and opportunities for primitive recreation will remain free from the influence of man and are protected in this condition for future generations. Its 112,500 acres beckon adventurers who yearn for solitude, scenic splendor, and the chance to explore one of the most beautiful geologic formations in the world. A permit is required to visit Coyote Buttes. Due to overwhelming demand, Coyote Buttes North ("The Wave") permits are available through a lottery. For additional information visit www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/permits-and-passes/lotter.... Photo by Bob Wick, BLM.

Description: Before highways and railways, before pioneers....the land we know as the United States was truly a vast wilderness. To protect these last remaining areas, in 1984 Congress created the Paria Canyon - Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. Coyote Buttes' outstanding scenery, desert wildlife, colorful history, and opportunities for primitive recreation will remain free from the influence of man and are protected in this condition for future generations. Its 112,500 acres beckon adventurers who yearn for solitude, scenic splendor, and the chance to explore one of the most beautiful geologic formations in the world. A permit is required to visit Coyote Buttes. Due to overwhelming demand, Coyote Buttes North ("The Wave") permits are available through a lottery. For additional information visit www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/permits-and-passes/lotter.... Photo by Bob Wick, BLM.

Image by BLMArizona – Public domain – Wikimedia

Before highways and railways, before pioneers....the land we know as the United States was truly a vast wilderness. To protect these last remaining areas, in 1984 Congress created the Paria Canyon - Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. Coyote Buttes' outstanding scenery, desert wildlife, colorful history, and opportunities for primitive recreation will remain free from the influence of man and are protected in this condition for future generations. Its 112,500 acres beckon adventurers who yearn for solitude, scenic splendor, and the chance to explore one of the most beautiful geologic formations in the world. A permit is required to visit Coyote Buttes. Due to overwhelming demand, Coyote Buttes North ("The Wave") permits are available through a lottery. For additional information visit www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/permits-and-passes/lotter.... Photo by Bob WIck, BLM.

Description: Before highways and railways, before pioneers....the land we know as the United States was truly a vast wilderness. To protect these last remaining areas, in 1984 Congress created the Paria Canyon - Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. Coyote Buttes' outstanding scenery, desert wildlife, colorful history, and opportunities for primitive recreation will remain free from the influence of man and are protected in this condition for future generations. Its 112,500 acres beckon adventurers who yearn for solitude, scenic splendor, and the chance to explore one of the most beautiful geologic formations in the world. A permit is required to visit Coyote Buttes. Due to overwhelming demand, Coyote Buttes North ("The Wave") permits are available through a lottery. For additional information visit www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/permits-and-passes/lotter.... Photo by Bob WIck, BLM.

Image by BLMArizona – Public domain – Wikimedia

Before highways and railways, before pioneers....the land we know as the United States was truly a vast wilderness. To protect these last remaining areas, in 1984 Congress created the Paria Canyon - Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. Coyote Buttes' outstanding scenery, desert wildlife, colorful history, and opportunities for primitive recreation will remain free from the influence of man and are protected in this condition for future generations. Its 112,500 acres beckon adventurers who yearn for solitude, scenic splendor, and the chance to explore one of the most beautiful geologic formations in the world. A permit is required to visit Coyote Buttes. Due to overwhelming demand, Coyote Buttes North ("The Wave") permits are available through a lottery. For additional information visit www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/permits-and-passes/lotter.... Photo by Bob Wick, BLM.

Description: Before highways and railways, before pioneers....the land we know as the United States was truly a vast wilderness. To protect these last remaining areas, in 1984 Congress created the Paria Canyon - Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. Coyote Buttes' outstanding scenery, desert wildlife, colorful history, and opportunities for primitive recreation will remain free from the influence of man and are protected in this condition for future generations. Its 112,500 acres beckon adventurers who yearn for solitude, scenic splendor, and the chance to explore one of the most beautiful geologic formations in the world. A permit is required to visit Coyote Buttes. Due to overwhelming demand, Coyote Buttes North ("The Wave") permits are available through a lottery. For additional information visit www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/permits-and-passes/lotter.... Photo by Bob Wick, BLM.

Image by BLMArizona – Public domain – Wikimedia

#mypubliclandsroadtrip ends the day with the scenic and geological wonders of the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument! Located on the Colorado Plateau in northern Arizona, Vermilion Cliffs National Monument includes the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. Nationally known for its beauty, the Paria Canyon has towering walls streaked with desert varnish, huge red rock amphitheaters, sandstone arches, wooded terraces and hanging gardens. The 3,000-foot escarpment known as the Vermilion Cliffs dominates the remainder of the wilderness with its thick Navajo sandstone face, rugged arroyos and stark overall appearance. Some of the best slot canyon hiking opportunities on the Colorado Plateau are found here. The northwest portion of the wilderness includes Coyote Buttes and The Wave, an area of spectacular scenery displaying domes, aprons, fins and a variety of small fragile rock sculptures carved in colorful swirling cross bedded sandstone. The variety of colors and textures in the rock formations within the wilderness constantly change with variations in light and weather. Photo by Bob Wick, BLM

Description: #mypubliclandsroadtrip ends the day with the scenic and geological wonders of the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument! Located on the Colorado Plateau in northern Arizona, Vermilion Cliffs National Monument includes the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. Nationally known for its beauty, the Paria Canyon has towering walls streaked with desert varnish, huge red rock amphitheaters, sandstone arches, wooded terraces and hanging gardens. The 3,000-foot escarpment known as the Vermilion Cliffs dominates the remainder of the wilderness with its thick Navajo sandstone face, rugged arroyos and stark overall appearance. Some of the best slot canyon hiking opportunities on the Colorado Plateau are found here. The northwest portion of the wilderness includes Coyote Buttes and The Wave, an area of spectacular scenery displaying domes, aprons, fins and a variety of small fragile rock sculptures carved in colorful swirling cross bedded sandstone. The variety of colors and textures in the rock formations within the wilderness constantly change with variations in light and weather. Photo by Bob Wick, BLM

Image by mypubliclands – CC BY 2.0 – Wikimedia

Robert "Bob" Bate, Vermilion Cliffs National Monument manager, speaks to a crowd at the 28th annual California condor release event at the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument on National Public Lands Day on Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024. Photo by Michelle Ailport/Bureau of Land Management Arizona.

Description: Robert "Bob" Bate, Vermilion Cliffs National Monument manager, speaks to a crowd at the 28th annual California condor release event at the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument on National Public Lands Day on Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024. Photo by Michelle Ailport/Bureau of Land Management Arizona.

Image by BLMArizona – Public domain – Wikimedia

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