White Pocket, tucked away in the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument on the Utah-Arizona border, is hands-down one of the coolest spots in the Southwest. The rock formations are unreal! One minute you’re walking across terrain that looks like a giant brain, and the next, you’re surrounded by swirling red and yellow sandstone.
What makes White Pocket even better? No need for permits or tours—just head out and explore. But getting there isn’t always easy. You’ll need a solid four-wheel drive to handle the long, sandy road. An all-wheel drive might not cut it, getting towed costs a fortune!
Directions to White Pocket
Accessing the White Pocket trail head begins with the House Rock Valley Road (BLM 1065). From Kanab, UT, head east on Highway 89 for 38 miles; from Page, AZ, travel west on Highway 89 for 36 miles.
Once on House Rock Valley Road (BLM 1065), 23.5 miles south of Hwy 89 or 9.3 miles north of Highway 89A, turn onto BLM 1017. Drive east on BLM 1017 for 6.2 miles, then continue northeast on BLM 1087. Follow BLM 1087 until it splits into BLM 1086. Stay left to proceed on BLM 1086, leading you to the White Pocket Trail head.
Please note that the roads leading to White Pocket are predominantly sandy, necessitating a four-wheel-drive vehicle for access. If you lack such a vehicle, consider joining a tour for exploration. Paria Outpost Tours offers an exceptional experience, providing both transportation and knowledgeable guides to showcase the area’s must-see rocks and sights.
Hiking White Pocket
While some trail guides may suggest a 1.5-mile trail at White Pocket, the reality is slightly different. White Pocket doesn’t feature a designated trail; visitors can explore the area and admire its unique rock formations at their leisure. As you approach White Pocket, you will discover a vast rock playground amidst the desert landscape. I’ve found it most enjoyable to begin on one side and gradually work my way around, taking in the captivating scenery.
Camping at White Pocket
Camping is allowed just outside of the White Pocket rock formation area. Setting up a tent is a great option because it allows you to explore the area day and night and gives you access to some of the best opportunities for photography. You can shoot the area at sunrise, sunset, and night. White Pockets is a great location for night photography; the views of the Milky Way here are amazing!
Nearby Hikes In the Area
The following hikes can be found along House Rock Valley Road:
Buckskin Gulch
Buckskin Gulch is one of the world’s longest and deepest slot canyons. It is located in the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness area near the Utah-Arizona border. The entire length of the canyon is approximately 15 miles, but many hikers opt for shorter out-and-back hikes.
Double Barrel Arch
Double Barrel Arch consists of two distinct arches, resembling the barrels of a double-barreled shotgun. The distance to Double Barrel Arch is typically around 1 to 2 miles round trip from the nearest parking area. The difficulty of the hike to Double Barrel Arch is moderate.
Edmaiers Secret
Edmaiers Secret is a hidden gem in the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument near the Arizona-Utah border. It’s not a single destination but rather a collection of intricate sandstone formations known for their vibrant colors and unique shapes. There isn’t a fixed distance for exploring Edmaiers Secret, as it’s more of an area than a specific trail.
Maze Rock Art Site
The Maze Rock Art Site along House Rock Valley Road is a significant archaeological site in the remote backcountry of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Utah. The distance to the Maze Rock Art Site is 1.4 miles round trip and considered moderate.
South Coyote Buttes
South Coyote Buttes is a stunning and remote area within the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, renowned for its surreal rock formations. The distance to South Coyote Buttes varies depending on the starting point and route. Access to South Coyote Buttes requires a permit.
Wave (North Coyote Buttes)
North Coyote Buttes is home to various fascinating rock formations, including wave-like ridges, towering hoodoos, and swirling sandstone patterns. “The Wave” is the most iconic feature of North Coyote Buttes, attracting visitors from around the world.
Wire Pass
Wire Pass is a slot canyon that leads to the main access point for exploring Buckskin Gulch. The distance to Wire Pass is 3.5 miles round trip.
Leave It Better Than You Found It
Remember to respect nature and follow ethical practices when engaging in outdoor activities. Always leave a place better than you found it, and practice the principles of Leave No Trace. Enjoy your time exploring White Pocket and discovering the area’s hidden treasures!