Coyote Buttes South Tour
- Permit Required -
South Coyote Buttes
Permit required
Duration:
Group Size:
What to Bring:
What's Provided:
Ages:
6-8 hours
6
Hiking shoes, snacks
Water
1+
Permit Required:
Yes
South Coyote Buttes is a hidden gem just waiting for you to discover. South Coyote Buttes boasts unique rock formations, including ‘The South Wave,’ a mesmerizing counterpart to ‘The Wave,’ located in the North Coyote Buttes.
The surreal patterns and textures of The South Wave will leave you spellbound. Plus, this trail is dog-friendly, making it an ideal destination for anyone traveling with furry friends. Hiking in South Coyote Buttes is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the wonders of Vermilion Cliffs, where nature’s artistry knows no bounds. If you’re seeking an alternative to The Wave that promises a remarkable experience, consider exploring the hidden treasures of South Coyote Buttes.
*Please note, all hikers must obtain their own permits before purchasing a guided tour*
About The Coyote Buttes South Tour
When visiting South Coyote Buttes, you are exploring a rare and highly protected landscape defined by colorful sandstone formations. Each day, the BLM limits access to just 20 permit holders, helping preserve the land while ensuring an uncrowded and immersive experience.
At South Coyote Buttes, you’ll encounter two primary types of formations: deep red, teepee-shaped sandstone and striking striped sandstone with vibrant waves of color throughout. Accessing these formations requires traveling through Vermilion Cliffs National Monument by 4x4 vehicle, followed by hiking on foot across trail-less, remote terrain, making a knowledgeable guide essential for navigating the area and seeing its most impressive features.
The landscape formed over 190 million years ago during the early Jurassic Period, when massive sand dunes slowly cemented into sandstone. Over time, nomadic hunters, Puebloan peoples, and later 19th-century ranchers passed through the region, leaving behind pottery fragments and stone tools. When you visit South Coyote Buttes, you’re quite literally stepping into history.
Trip Details
South Coyote Buttes is one of the most visually striking and least crowded areas of the Vermilion Cliffs, featuring the South Wave alongside sculpted sandstone fins, swirling colorful rocks, and panoramic desert views. This dog-friendly hike is a quieter alternative to The Wave.
Duration: 6-8 hours
Difficulty: Moderate (minimal hiking but requires mobility on uneven terrain)
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What’s Included:
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Expert local guide
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Transportation in a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle
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Water and coolers for your snacks
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Photography tips and guidance
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Optional hotel pickup in Kanab
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2-hour drive in and out of location
Important Information:
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A day-use permit is required to visit South Coyote Buttes
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Hikers must obtain their own permit before booking a guided tour with ROAM
Gallery of South Coyote Buttes
Why Choose ROAM?
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ROAM Outdoor Adventure Co. is an award-winning company run by locals who were born and raised here in the Southern Utah desert.
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We provide private and small-group tours designed to give you the most time inside South Coyote Buttes.
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Our guides will handle all the logistics, transport, safety, and navigation.
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Along the way, our guides will lead you to sweeping sandstone waves, towering fins, and hidden formations tucked deep into the landscape — showcasing areas and viewpoints most visitors would never discover on their own.
REVIEWS FOR SOUTH COYOTE BUTTES
CANDY S.
Really enjoyed having Jacey with ROAM Outdoor as our guide to Coyote Buttes South. He listened to our input on what we were hoping to see and gave us a great tour, even pointing out plants and a bit about the rock and colors we found. He knew of some great picture spots. Even with some research I had not anticipated how large this area was to explore, several miles. Also got some good tips on driving in sand. I’d definitely recommend a guide for your first trip to Coyote Buttes South.
GIOVANNI L.
The best experience. Thank you for this wonderful tour. I highly recommend it to everyone. My guide was very professional, friendly, and respectful.
MINGHUA T.
Trust me, you need a high clearance 4x4 if you plan to go to the White Pocket or the Coyote Butte South. ROAM provided decent vehicles and great service! I left my phone in the pickup. They sent my phone to my hotel in 1 hour after I left a message on their voice mail. It was already 9PM. I really appreciated it.
