How to Get a Coyote Buttes South Permit
Explore 190-million-year-old sandstone formations as spectacular as The Wave with lottery odds that make your permit actually attainable.
Check Availability~30-40%
Lottery Odds
4-8 hours
Duration
8 miles
Distance
400'
Elevation Gain
moderate
Difficulty
About Coyote Buttes South
Coyote Buttes South offers sandstone formations comparable to The Wave with significantly better lottery odds. The zone contains multiple named features (Cotton Candy, Paw Hole, The Teepees) plus extensive unnamed terrain. Like Coyote Buttes North (The Wave), access is by lottery permit. However, demand is lower, making permits more attainable. Maximum 20 people per day.
Coyote Buttes South contains formations every bit as remarkable as its famous northern neighbor, but the lottery odds are dramatically better. While The Wave rejects 95% of applicants, South permits are often available even in peak season. This is insider knowledge that rewards the flexible explorer.
The Experience
You walk through a landscape that makes no sense. Sandstone folded and twisted by forces that operated 190 million years ago. Colors swirl in patterns that seem painted rather than geological. The Cotton Candy formation lives up to its name. Paw Hole's perfect circles defy explanation. And you might be the only person here.
From the Paw Hole Trailhead (reached via Wire Pass Road or Paria Outpost), routes fan out to various formations. Unlike The Wave, there's no single iconic feature here. Instead, the entire zone is extraordinary.
The Cotton Candy, Paw Hole, and The Teepees are the named attractions, but countless unnamed formations reward exploration. Navigation is by GPS waypoints and visual landmarks. There is no trail.
What to Expect
No single iconic feature. Multiple formations to explore
6-10 miles of wandering depending on route
No marked trails. GPS navigation required
Better lottery odds than The Wave
Maximum 20 permits per day
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Permit Requirements
Lottery permit required
Maximum 20 people per day
Day use only (no camping)
GPS navigation essential
Stay on slickrock (protect cryptobiotic soil)
Gear & Preparation
Required Gear
- •GPS with downloaded waypoints
- •1 gallon water minimum per person
- •Sun protection
- •Sturdy footwear for slickrock
- •BLM permit and photo guide
Recommended Gear
- •Camera with polarizing filter
- •Tripod for detail shots
- •Extra water beyond minimum
- •Snacks for full-day exploration
- •Layers for temperature changes
Hazards & Safety
Navigation challenges. No trails, GPS required.
Dehydration. No water on route.
Rough access road. High clearance recommended.
Flash floods in washes
Extreme heat in summer
Best Time to Visit
March-May and September-November. Summer is dangerously hot. Winter is possible but cold.
100+ wilderness permits, extensive backcountry experience
This guide is based on personal experience obtaining wilderness permits and is regularly updated to reflect current policies and strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a Coyote Buttes South permit?
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Coyote Buttes South permits are distributed through a lottery system. Apply during the lottery window, and if you're not selected, check for cancellations as they become available.
When is the best time to visit Coyote Buttes South?
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March-May and September-November. Summer is dangerously hot. Winter is possible but cold.
How difficult is Coyote Buttes South?
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Explorers comfortable with GPS navigation seeking Wave-quality formations without Wave-level competition.
What if I don't win the Coyote Buttes South lottery?
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Cancellations happen regularly. Use PermitSnag to monitor availability and get alerts when spots open up. You can also check for walk-up permits or consider similar alternatives in the area.
What gear do I need for Coyote Buttes South?
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Essential gear includes: GPS with downloaded waypoints, 1 gallon water minimum per person, Sun protection, Sturdy footwear for slickrock, BLM permit and photo guide.
Don't Miss Your Coyote Buttes South Permit
Cancellations happen every day. PermitSnag monitors Coyote Buttes South availability 24/7 and alerts you the moment a spot opens up.
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