Hike to the Elusive Wave
The Wave is a stunning red sandstone formation at the Arizona/Utah border in Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, and it is one of the most mesmerizing structures in the United States. It promises a once-in-a-lifetime adventure and is at the top of most visitors' Arizona bucket lists - but getting there is a struggle!
Due to its great popularity, the number of daily visitors is limited in order to preserve the Wave's beauty. Permits for The Wave are distributed through an online and in-person lottery, with only 64 issued per day (48 online and 16 in person). If you're one of the lucky few, you'll be able to get up close and personal with the striated sea of rust-red and yellow sandstone that spans the high desert. It's pristine nature at its best, and a must-see for nature photographers.
If you can't get a permit for The Wave, you can go to White Pocket, which is also in the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, but you'll need a 4WD vehicle to get there. Surreal vistas of colorful boulders flowing in all directions arise out of nowhere and are a secret treasure for outdoor aficionados.
Address: Marble Canyon, AZ 86036, United States
Opening hours: open 24 hours
Rating: 4.71,084 Google reviews
Website: https://www.blm.gov/national-conservation-lands/arizona/vermilion-cliffs
