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The Wave (Coyote Buttes North)

Quick beta: The Wave (water planning mattered)

Feb 4-5, 20262 people1 min read
S

Shane Rogers

1 reports

4.0
Difficulty
5
Scenery
4
Trail Conditions
4
Safety and comfort notes for The Wave Quick report from The Wave (Vermilion Cliffs National Monument). We went Wire Pass route with waypoint checks at major slickrock turns with a group of 2 and started around 4:45 AM. Weather: Clear sky made timing simple and kept visibility high. Trail: Slickrock footing was solid where it stayed dry. Water: No on-route water, so we packed the full day carry. Permit check: had it pulled up before we hit the busy spots. Overall it was a smooth day. If you are on this route soon: set a turnaround time, keep a dry layer handy, and do not count on service. Small stuff that helps: Bring one extra liter if you are unsure about water. Start earlier than you think if you want space on the first mile. Scorecard (out of 5): overall 4, difficulty 5, scenery 4, conditions 4. Tips - Take photos of the permit and save them offline. - Start earlier than you think if you want space on the first mile. - Keep snacks accessible so breaks stay short and clean. - Bring one extra liter if you are unsure about water.

Conditions at Time of Trip

Feb 2026

Weather

Clear sky made timing simple and kept visibility high.

Trail

Slickrock footing was solid where it stayed dry.

Water

No on-route water, so we packed the full day carry.

Crowds

Moderate

💡Tips from the Trip

💡

General

  • Take photos of the permit and save them offline.
  • Start earlier than you think if you want space on the first mile.
  • Keep snacks accessible so breaks stay short and clean.
  • Bring one extra liter if you are unsure about water.
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