Paria Canyon Wilderness Area, Arizona / Utah -

The Paria Canyon Wilderness Area encompasses one of the finest canyons in the American Southwest and what is probably the most spectacular slot canyon in the world, the Buckskin Gulch. It also includes the scenic Coyote Buttes/Wave area.

For general information and an introduction to the area please read our Paria Canyon Overview first. Additional information, including permits and reservations, can be obtained at the BLM's Paria Canyon site, or call the Paria Canyon Project Permits Desk at (435) 688-3246.

Info on Coyote Buttes including "the Wave"

BLM hiking permits are required to visit the popular Coyote Buttes, including "the Wave".

Info on Buckskin Gulch

Be sure to read the narrative of our experiences in the Buckskin Gulch and Paria River, The Dive of the Buckskin. A complete printer-ready version is available on our download page: Paria Canyon Map and Trail Guide.

Using the Interactive Map

Place your mouse pointer on any item number (in black) on the map. A brief description will appear.

Map of Paria Canyon Wilderness Area

Access / Trailheads (All sections keyed to map)

• Always make advanced inquiry with the ranger:
  • What is the current Weather Forecast?
  • Are floatation devices needed to negotiate deep pools?
  • Are ropes needed at the rock jams?
  • Is drinking water available from known springs?

Buckskin Gulch

1. The start of the "Dive of the Buckskin". The Buckskin Gulch is 3 to 15 feet wide for the next 12 miles and roughly 400 feet high. There are only two safe areas in the event of bad weather. (3 miles from starting point B)
2. Access to the top of the canyon. Recommended for first night's camping. There is a second safe area about 2 miles downstream. (mile 11.6 from B)
3. Major rock jam. Primary obstruction in Buckskin Gulch. Degree of difficulty varies with changes from flash floods. At present (2000) it is a 12 foot dropoff which you can scramble down. Rope is recommended to hand down packs. (mile 15.1 from B)

Start of Paria River

4. The start of the Paria River Narrows which extend for about five miles downstream. Extremely hazardous when high water threatens. During some years there may be deep pools requiring swimming. (mile 4.2 from starting point D)
5. Site of Sliderock Arch. The much photographed landmark is actually a huge rockfall which formed a bridge over the river. (mile 6.2 from D)

Confluence of Paria River and Buckskin Gulch

6. Confluence of Paria River and Buckskin Gulch. A shorter trip starts at point B or C, then ends at D. The Buckskin is never hiked going upstream. (mile 6.8 from D)

Confluence of Paria River and Buckskin Gulch to Lee's Ferry

7. Spring on south side of river. It is important to be aware of where springs may be found as the river water is extremely muddy and not drinkable. Most of the springs in the area are found on the south side of, and adjacent to, the river. (mile 8.7 from D)
8. First good campsite after Paria Narrows. Spring nearby. Good campsites and springs the next few miles. (mile 9 from D)
9. Free-flowing spring. Side canyon just downstream has lush riparian vegetation and fresh water. (mile 11 from D)
10. Excellent campsite on a wooded bench. (mile 13.3 from D)
11. Following a short rough stretch, there are remnants of a water station used by early settlers. Downstream there are numerous springs and good campsites for the next several miles. (mile 15 from D)
12. Wrather Canyon is a scenic side canyon with a clear stream. The 200 foot Wrather Arch is 1/2 mile up the canyon. Very scenic. No camping allowed in Wrather Canyon. (mile 18.5 from D)
13. Good spring on north side of river. This is the last really obvious spring along the river before Lee's Ferry. The canyon becomes narrower and very boulder-strewn for the next three miles, and progress is slow. (mile 20 from D)
14. Last side canyon with last spring before Lee's Ferry. Paria Canyon starts to widen, and there is a trail of use on the south side for several miles, bypassing the boulder filled river. (mile 24 from D)
15. The canyon broadens widely into open desert terrain. No shade or drinking water. Very warm. Least interesting part of the trip although the canyon walls become very steep and scenic as you approach the Colorado River. (miles 28-38 from D)

For information on services and facilities at Lee's Ferry and Page, refer to our Lake Powell Travel Guide.