Buckskin Gulch: Hike the Longest Slot Canyon in America

Buckskin Gulch is an awesome 13-mile slot canyon with walls reaching a height of 500 feet.  I love this canyon for a lot of reasons. First of all, it is the longest slot canyon in the United States and possibly the world, which is really cool!  In addition, the canyon is fairly private.  You will likely encounter other hikers, but it’s not overcrowded like the nearby Antelope Canyons.  Plus, you don’t need to pay for a tour to explore Buckskin Gulch. You can see the canyon at your own pace, on your own terms, and the farther into the canyon you go, the fewer people you will encounter. 

Directions To the Trailhead(s)

The Buckskin Gulch and Wire Pass Trailheads

I recommend printing this handy map, courtesy of the Kane County Utah Office of Tourism before you go.

The Wire Pass and Buckskin Trailheads are both located on House Rock Valley Road. To reach the Buckskin Gulch or Wire Pass trailhead from Page, AZ, drive 36 miles west on Highway 89 and turn south onto House Rock Valley Road.  Once you reach House Rock Valley Road, you will drive about 5 miles to the Buckskin Gulch Trailhead or about 9 miles to the Wire Pass/Wave Trailhead. 

House Rock Valley Road
House Rock Valley Road is unpaved and minimally maintained. A two-wheel-drive vehicle is fine most of the time, but a four-wheel-drive, high-clearance vehicle is needed when the road is wet or snowy.  During the rainy season and the winter months, the road may become impassable for all vehicles, even those with four-wheel drive. 

Permit Information for Hiking Buckskin Gulch

Day-use permits are required in Buckskin Gulch. The day-use fee is $6.00 per person and $6.00 per dog.

There is not a lottery required for a day-use permit to Buckskin Gulch. You pay for your permit at the trailhead and display it on the dashboard of your vehicle, making sure the PASS ID is visible.

The day-use permit does not cover access to any special permit areas, including overnight use for the Paria Canyon, Coyote Buttes North (The Wave), or Coyote Buttes South.

Please take note of the following:

1. Day Hiking in Buckskin Gulch:
   • A day-use permit is required for hiking in Buckskin Gulch. The permits are not limited and do not require a lottery. Day hikers must register at the trailhead.
2. Overnight Permits:
   • If you plan to camp overnight in Buckskin Gulch or other areas within the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness, you will need an overnight permit. Permits can be obtained through the Recreation.gov website.
3. Coyote Buttes Permits:
   • Coyote Buttes, which includes The Wave and other stunning formations, requires a separate permit that can only be obtained by winning a permit lottery. These permits are also obtained through the Recreation.gov website.

Fees and permit requirements are subject to change, so it’s essential to check the official BLM (Bureau of Land Management) website or contact the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness office for the most up-to-date information on fees and permits before planning your visit.

Hiking Buckskin Gulch Via Wire Pass

My favorite way to get to Buckskin Gulch is through Wire Pass.  The Wire Pass trailhead begins in the same parking lot that is used to hike to the Wave.  You follow the trail, and when you see a slot canyon, you go to it instead of heading toward the wave area.  Wire Pass is the first slot canyon you will reach.  It is really fun to hike through because it is extremely narrow!  Once you leave Wire Pass, you are in Buckskin Gulch.  Make sure to look at the wall around the intersection, as there are petroglyphs.  From this point, you can hike Buckskin Gulch in either direction.  The long slot canyon is absolutely beautiful.   
 

Be Aware of the Dangers of Flash Flooding

To avoid dangerous flash flooding in southwest slot canyons, consider the following precautions:

1. Check Weather Forecasts: Stay informed about the weather conditions in the region. Pay attention to flash flood warnings, severe weather alerts, and updates from local authorities.
2. Avoid Rainy Periods: Flash floods are more likely during or after heavy rainfall. Try to plan your visit during dry seasons, and avoid slot canyons if rain is in the forecast or has occurred recently.
3. Be Mindful of Seasonal Changes: Flash floods can be more common during certain seasons. Be aware of the weather patterns in the area, and plan your visit accordingly.
4. Understand Local Geography: Familiarize yourself with the specific slot canyon you plan to visit. Learn about its drainage patterns, potential flood areas, and escape routes.
5. Start Early: Begin your hike or exploration early in the day to avoid afternoon thunderstorms, which can be common in some regions.
6. Tell Someone Your Plans: Inform a friend or family member about your itinerary, including the specific slot canyons you plan to explore and your expected return time. This can aid search and rescue efforts if needed.
7. Heed Warning Signs: Obey posted warning signs and advisories. If an area is closed due to the risk of flash flooding, do not enter.

Remember that flash floods can be unpredictable and dangerous. Prioritize your safety, and if conditions become unfavorable, consider postponing your visit or choosing a different location. Always exercise caution and use your best judgment when exploring natural areas, especially those prone to flash flooding.

Leave It Better than You Found It