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The Wave (Coyote Buttes North)

Quick beta: The Wave (we moved slower than planned and it was still a good day)

Feb 9-11, 20266 people1 min read
D

David Bishop

1 reports

5.0
Difficulty
5
Scenery
5
Trail Conditions
4
Safety and comfort notes for The Wave Just got back from The Wave and wrote this while it is still fresh. We went Main Wave route with extra time for return navigation with a group of 6 and started around 5:10 AM. Weather: Cold start turned into warm sun by mid-morning. Trail: Route markers lined up well, still worth checking maps often. Water: No refill options at all, which drove our turnaround time. No surprises on the permit side, just do not count on cell service. It felt steady from start to finish. 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: Download your map before you lose service. Poles help more than people admit on slick or steep exits. Ratings: overall 5/5, difficulty 5/5, scenery 5/5, conditions 4/5.

Conditions at Time of Trip

Feb 2026

Weather

Cold start turned into warm sun by mid-morning.

Trail

Route markers lined up well, still worth checking maps often.

Water

No refill options at all, which drove our turnaround time.

Crowds

Empty

💡Tips from the Trip

💡

General

  • Keep snacks accessible so breaks stay short and clean.
  • Poles help more than people admit on slick or steep exits.
  • Take photos of the permit and save them offline.
  • Download your map before you lose service.
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