Coyote Buttes – The Wave

Bill has a website dedicated to one of our best hikes in the world, The Wave on the Utah / Arizona border:

… There are two great photographic locations in Coyote Buttes North (The Wave and The Second Wave) and numerous minor ones including Top Rock Arch, Melody Arch and the Grotto, the Hooters, The Alcove, Sand Cove, and Fatali’s Boneyard.

The Wave is best photographed midday so as to minimize the extensive shadows, the other areas listed above are best photographed mid-late afternoon. …

Due to the fragile nature of this natural resource, it’s very difficult to get a hiking permit.

Bill’s site offers this advice:

… Your chances are better if you’re going alone, or in December – February. If you do not win the lottery I suggest you get one for Coyote Buttes South, or go to the White Pocket which is east of Coyote Buttes South.

I know of one person who was lost overnight in Coyote Buttes South, so use a GPS, mark the trailhead, and stay with your party. While a two wheel drive vehicle is adequate for the North Buttes, four wheel drive is required for the South due to deep sand. …

read more on TheWave.info

Bill adds this bit of news:

The upcoming 2012 Disney film “John Carter” was shot in the area across Wahweap Creek near the town of Bigwater. Other locations include Canyonlands and Factory Butte (near Capitol Reef). A 3D movie. The arid region will stand in for Mars.