Wire Pass Slot Canyon may be short, but it’s seriously stunning. It connects right into Buckskin Gulch, which holds the title of the longest slot canyon in the U.S. The hike is a fun one, complete with cool petroglyphs along the way, and if you’re up for it, you can keep the adventure going by diving deeper into Buckskin Gulch at the end!
Directions to the Wire Pass Trailhead
The Wire Pass trailhead is located along House Rock Valley Road, a dirt road off US Route 89, between Kanab, Utah, and Page, Arizona. After about nine miles down House Rock Valley Road, you’ll hit the Wire Pass Trailhead, which is the starting point for both Wire Pass and the famous Wave hike. If you’re coming from US Route 89, you’ll see the dirt parking lot on your right.
In dry weather, you don’t need a 4-wheel drive to get there, but if it’s been raining, the road can get super muddy, so a 4WD is a must. If you don’t have the right vehicle, guided tours are a great backup—especially when the road is wet. Paria Outfitters is my top pick for tours; they’re nearby and always provide top-notch service.
I recommend printing this handy map, courtesy of the Kane County Utah Office.
Hiking Wire Pass
After leaving the trailhead, cross House Rock Valley Road and follow the path until you hit a wide drainage area. At first, the scenery might not seem all that exciting, but keep going—soon the cliffs start rising and narrowing, making the surroundings way more impressive.
The second half of the hike takes you through two different slot canyons. The first one has about an eight-foot drop. You can carefully climb down, and sometimes there’s a makeshift ladder to help, but definitely check if it’s sturdy before trusting it. If you’re not up for the drop, you can take an easier route around it to the south.
Once you’re through that, the second slot canyon opens up, and it’s a beauty—narrow and scenic, with no big drops. It’ll lead you straight to the end where it meets Buckskin Gulch. Keep an eye out for petroglyphs of bighorn sheep on the canyon walls where the two canyons meet.
From there, you can either head back the way you came or explore deeper into Buckskin Gulch before returning. If you’re up for more of a trek, you can also hike out to the Buckskin Gulch Trailhead, but that’ll add more distance and take you to a different parking spot.
Be Aware of the Dangers of Flash Flooding
To avoid dangerous flash flooding in southwest slot canyons, consider the following precautions:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Start Early: Begin your hike or exploration early in the day to avoid afternoon thunderstorms, which can be common in some regions.
- 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.
- 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.
Nearby Hikes
Buckskin Gulch is one of the world’s longest and deepest slot canyons, 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. Wire Pass connects you to Buckskin Gulch.
Double Barrel Arch consists of two distinct arches side by side, 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 considered to be moderate.
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.
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 is considered moderate.
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 to be obtained in advance.
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. The hike to Wire Pass Slot Canyon begins from the same trailhead as the Wave, but you don’t need a permit to hike to Wire Pass.
White Pocket is famous for its unique and otherworldly landscape. The distance to White Pocket varies depending on the route taken. There isn’t a specific trail; most hikers walk 2-5 miles exploring the scenery. Getting to White Pocket is half the adventure, requiring a long drive on a dirt and sand road.
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 the trails and discovering the area’s hidden treasures!
