How to Hike from Wire Pass Trailhead to Buckskin Gulch Like a Pro
Plan your adventure at the Wire Pass Trailhead. Access Buckskin Gulch, hike towards The Wave, and explore stunning Utah slot canyons.
If you’re looking for a beautiful hike through the famous slot canyons of Utah, starting from the Wire Pass Trailhead is a great option. This trail offers an easy way to see Buckskin Gulch, one of the longest and deepest slot canyons in the Southwest. You don’t need to be a seasoned hiker to enjoy this route, but it helps to know what to expect before you go.
This article will walk you through everything you need to plan your hike. You’ll find tips about permits, trail conditions, safety, and what to bring. Whether you're heading out for a quick day hike or part of a longer adventure, this trail is a great choice.
Where is the Trail?
The trail starts in the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness, which is near the Utah-Arizona border. To get to the starting point, drive on US-89 about 37 miles east of Kanab, Utah. Look for House Rock Valley Road — a dirt road that leads to the trailhead. From there, drive about 8.3 miles. This road is usually okay for most cars in dry weather, but it gets muddy and hard to drive after rain.
It's smart to check the weather and road conditions before you go. In wet conditions, the road can be almost impossible to drive unless you have a high-clearance or 4WD vehicle.
Parking and Permits
There’s a parking lot at the start of the trail. It fills up fast, especially during spring and fall. If you're going during a busy weekend, try to get there early in the morning.
You’ll need a day-use permit to hike this trail. It costs $6 per person and $6 per dog. You can pay at the self-pay station near the parking lot. Bring exact cash or pay in advance online through the Bureau of Land Management's website.
What the Hike is Like
From the parking lot, the trail starts in an open desert wash. It’s easy to follow. After walking about 1.7 miles, you'll enter the first narrow canyon. This part is known as Wire Pass. The canyon walls grow taller, and the light becomes gentler. It's a beautiful place for photos.
As you go farther, you'll reach a short drop that can be tricky to climb down. Most people can do it, but small children or dogs might need help. Some hikers bring a short rope or walk around this part using a side path.
After that, you’ll reach a junction where Wire Pass meets Buckskin Gulch. You can keep walking deeper into Buckskin Gulch or turn back, depending on how far you want to go.
How Long is the Hike?
If you just go to Buckskin Gulch and back, the round trip is about 3.5 miles. Most people do this in 2 to 3 hours, depending on how long they stop for photos or snacks.
If you decide to hike farther into Buckskin Gulch, you can walk as far as you'd like before turning back. Keep in mind the farther you go, the narrower and darker the canyon gets. It's cooler inside, and sometimes you’ll find muddy spots or standing water.
When to Go
The best time to hike here is spring or fall. In summer, it can get very hot, and there's a higher risk of flash floods. In winter, it’s colder, and the trail might be muddy or icy.
Avoid entering any slot canyon if rain is in the forecast—even if the storm is miles away. Flash floods can move fast and fill the canyon with water in minutes. Always check the weather before your trip.
What to Bring
Pack light, but don’t skip the basics. Bring:
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At least 2 liters of water per person
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Snacks or a small lunch
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Sunscreen and a hat (for the open part of the trail)
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A basic first aid kit
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A map or GPS
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Hiking shoes with a good grip
If you’re bringing your dog, bring extra water and maybe dog booties. The rocks and sand can be tough on paws.
What Makes This Trail Special
Wire Pass and Buckskin Gulch offer some of the best slot canyon views in the Southwest. The tall, narrow walls look like something out of a movie. Light shines through in beams, and the colors shift with every turn.
This trail gives you the chance to see these sights without a long or difficult hike. It’s one of the most accessible ways to explore this area.
There’s also a small petroglyph panel near the junction with Buckskin Gulch. Take a moment to stop and look — it’s a neat glimpse into the past.
Safety Tips
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Don’t hike alone if you’re not familiar with the area.
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Let someone know your plans.
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Stay alert for signs of changing weather.
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Watch your step on rocky parts or in muddy areas.
There’s no cell service in the canyon, so plan ahead and download maps before you go.
Other Places to Explore Nearby
If you have more time in the area, consider checking out The Wave (lottery permit needed), White Pocket, or Coyote Buttes South. These are also part of the Vermilion Cliffs area and have amazing rock formations.
Kanab, Utah, is the closest town with food, gas, and places to stay. It’s a good base for exploring this part of the Southwest.
A Hike You’ll Never Forget
The Wire Pass Trailhead is your gateway to one of the most beautiful hikes in the desert. Whether you go a few miles or spend all day exploring, this trail offers a real adventure. It's simple enough for beginners but still exciting for experienced hikers.
For more tips, real hiking stories, and helpful guides like this one, check out Unicorn Adventure — they’ve got plenty of insights to help you plan your next trip right.
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