If you’ve got off-road capability, Coyote Buttes South is a spectacularly unique hike in the middle of the Arizona wilderness with colorful other-worldly formations.
The Coyote Buttes Trail is a 4 mile loop trail hike starting at the Cottonwood Teepees trailhead in the Paria-Canyon-Vermillion Cliffs Wilderness area in Arizona. Due to the trail-finding challenges and the remoteness of this hike, it’s considered moderate. Dogs are able to use this hike. It took us 2 hours with many stops to soak in the scenery. Also note that White Pocket is nearby and absolutely worth the additional detour.
Details:
Directions (Google Maps): To get to the Coyote Buttes South from Cotton Teepees trailhead search for the Cottonwood Teepees Trailhead in Marble Canyon, Arizona or click here.
Directions (old school maps): From Kanab, take Highway 89A south about 14 miles until you turn left onto BLM 1025 and then it’s a series of dirt roads for another 38 miles. It’s recommended you download maps ahead of time as there is no cell service and the area is quite desolate and remote.
Driving Info: This is a moderately challenging off-road drive to the trailhead. The road is tight and bumpy throughout and requires 4×4 capabilities and some off-roading experience.
Time & Weather: We hiked this trail in early March and started hiking around 10am. The weather was crisp at 50 degrees but with limited shade you warm up quickly on the hike.
Gear: We wore 1-2 layers for warmth, solid hiking boots, hat & sunglasses.
Trail Navigation: The trail is difficult to follow at times. Route-finding skills are very helpful for this hike. Recommended that maps be downloaded offline since there is no cell reception for miles around.
Water & Food: We drank about a liter each, but in the warmer months you should definitely bring extra water. There is no water source along the trail. We at a few snacks but the hike only takes about 2 hours.
Trailhead Info: The trail starts just outside the small dirt turnaround for parking. There is no bathroom for many miles around this hike.
Pictures of Coyote Buttes South:
From the parking spots you weave your way through the sandy brush towards the large rock formations.
As you approach these magnificent sand structures the colorful patterns become even more distinct.
Up close you can see the exquisite texture of the worn sandstone.
Mesmerizing wavy patterns of yellow and orange sandstone.
After the first few standalone structures you’ll start to encounter larger walls of colorful twisted formations.
Similar to the famous Wave hike, these sections feel like you’re inside a fire-torched wave.
Different textures on these types of mounds, where the layers are smoothed out.
Flaky sandstone juts out of the massive rock structures. You can see nature’s smooth and delicate touch.
At some points you’re completely surrounded by these otherworldly creations. The loop around gives you plenty of awe-inspiring photo opportunities.
Going to be in the Kanab area? There's a ton of hiking, camping and outdoor activities to get up to. Check out our Ultimate Hiking & Travel Guide for our tips on the most amazing hikes within a few hours of Kanab.
