Kanab: South Coyote Buttes Hiking Tour (Permit Required)

Discover South Coyote Buttes: An Easy, Permit-Required Day Trip from Kanab

For those seeking a stunning landscape similar to “The Wave” but with a simpler permit process, the South Coyote Buttes Hiking Tour from Kanab offers an excellent alternative. Priced at $419 per person and lasting approximately 8 hours, this tour provides an accessible way to experience the vivid natural sculptures of the American Southwest.

The tour is run by Roam Outdoor Adventure Co. and includes a permit, which is a significant advantage over the lottery system often associated with “The Wave.” With a small group size limited to 6 participants, it maintains a personal and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for travelers who want an intimate exploration of this remarkable landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Permit included, making planning easier than “The Wave” lottery
• 8-hour guided hike through vibrant sandstone formations
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed pace
• Easy hike difficulty, suitable for most fitness levels
• Vivid hues of red, orange, yellow, and pink in the terrain
• Tour departs from Kanab, Arizona, with a meet-up at a convenient parking lot

South Coyote Buttes: A Visual Wonderland of Colorful Sandstone

The highlight of this tour is South Coyote Buttes’ landscape, which resembles a giant painter’s palette. Expect to see vibrant reds, oranges, yellows, and pinks that color the sandstone formations. These natural sculptures have been shaped by wind and water over millions of years, resulting in undulating waves, delicate crevices, and towering fins.

This terrain offers a surreal and striking view that rivals more famous sites, but with the benefit of an easier permit process. The landscape invites you to walk among intricate formations that seem to tell a story of geological artistry, perfect for photography and appreciating natural beauty up close.

The Simpler Permit Process for South Coyote Buttes

One of the main advantages of this tour is the permit acquisition. Unlike the “lottery” system for “The Wave,” obtaining a permit here is less complicated. Travelers are advised to request their permit through recreation.gov about three months in advance for the best chance of securing it.

This straightforward process makes it easier for visitors to plan their trip without the uncertainty of last-minute permit availability. The tour operator assists with this step, ensuring all permits are secured before the adventure begins.

Meeting Point and Logistics in Kanab

The tour departs from Kanab, Arizona, with a meeting point in the parking lot between Honeys Market Place and Honeys Fuel Center. Participants are asked to park near containers in the back of the lot for convenience.

The small group size — limited to 6 people — means a more flexible and personalized experience. The 8-hour duration usually runs in the morning, allowing travelers to enjoy the landscape with plenty of daylight. The tour is designed to be easy, with no strenuous technical hikes, making it accessible for most fitness levels.

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What’s Included and What to Bring for this Tour

Your guide provides a cooler with waters to keep you refreshed during the day. Since meals are not included, it’s recommended to bring your own food for the trip. Gratuity for your guide is not included but appreciated, as with most guided tours.

The tour’s cost of $419 per person covers the permit, guide services, and water, offering good value considering the stunning scenery and expert knowledge provided.

The Expert Guide’s Role and Experience

Guides from Roam Outdoor Adventure Co. lead the tour, sharing insights into the geology, ecology, and cultural significance of South Coyote Buttes. Their storytelling enhances the experience, helping visitors understand the landscape’s formation and natural history.

The guides’ knowledge and friendly approach contribute to a relaxed atmosphere, allowing participants to focus on enjoying the landscape while learning about its many facets.

Timing and Pacing of the 8-Hour Tour

The tour generally runs in the morning, making full use of daylight for photography and exploration. Its easy hike difficulty level means travelers can comfortably spend time appreciating each formation without feeling rushed.

The pacing is leisurely, giving ample opportunity to take photos, ask questions, and soak in the scenery at each stop. The length and design suit visitors looking for a well-balanced day of adventure without excessive physical strain.

Comparing South Coyote Buttes to Other Slot Canyons and Formations

While “The Wave” remains the most famous formation in this region, South Coyote Buttes offers a similar landscape with the additional benefit of easier permit access. Its colorful formations and undulating shapes make it a top contender for those who want an extraordinary hike without the hassle of a lottery.

This area is also less crowded than many other popular spots, giving a more peaceful experience amid striking natural sculptures. It’s ideal for photographers, geology enthusiasts, and casual hikers alike.

Practical Tips for Your South Coyote Buttes Hike

To get the most out of this adventure, plan to arrive early in the morning. Bring adequate water and your own food to stay energized. Wear comfortable hiking shoes and sun protection, as the terrain is easy but exposed.

Make sure your permit is secured in advance by visiting recreation.gov and applying about three months ahead. This step is essential since permits are limited and in high demand.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This tour is perfect for those who want stunning scenery and a manageable hike. Its easy difficulty level makes it suitable for most fitness levels, including families with older children and casual hikers.

Travelers interested in geology, photography, and natural landscapes will find South Coyote Buttes a rich and rewarding destination. The small group size ensures a more personal experience, ideal for anyone looking to connect with nature without dealing with large crowds.

The Sum Up: A Unique and Accessible Canyon Adventure from Kanab

The South Coyote Buttes Hiking Tour from Kanab offers a beautiful and accessible way to experience some of the Southwest’s most colorful formations. The permit included streamlines planning, while the 8-hour guided experience ensures you see the best sights at a relaxed pace.

With expert guides, stunning scenery, and a manageable hike, this trip suits anyone eager to explore a landscape that rivals more famous sites but without the permit hassle. It’s a great choice for travelers wanting a beautiful, manageable day immersed in the natural artistry of the American desert.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit for South Coyote Buttes?
Yes, a permit is required, but it can be obtained more easily than “The Wave” lottery system by applying through recreation.gov about three months in advance.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, typically in the morning.

Is the hike difficult?
No, the hike is classified as easy, suitable for most fitness levels.

What’s included in the price?
The permit, guide services, and water cooler are included. Bring your own food, as meals are not provided.

Where does the tour meet?
Participants meet in the parking lot between Honeys Market Place and Honeys Fuel Center in Kanab.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to 6 participants, ensuring a small and personal experience.

What should I bring?
Bring your own food, sun protection, and comfortable hiking shoes.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Who is the tour provider?
The experience is provided by Roam Outdoor Adventure Co.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the easy difficulty level makes it suitable for families and most casual hikers.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby