For those wanting to get off-road and find yourself on another planet, White Pocket does not disappoint with its gyrating rock formations and colorful spires.
White Pocket is not an easy place to get to, but it’s an adventure worth exploring. Many find this otherworldly place because they were part of the vast majority of people who could not secure permits to The Wave. But White Pocket certainly does not disappoint. A great place for families and dogs to play around. It’s less of a hike and more of a giant area to scramble and explore. Also worth considering since it’s relatively nearby, is trying to get permits to the Coyote Butte South trail.
Details:
Directions (Google Maps): To get to White Pocket, search for White Pocket in Marble, 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 1pm. The weather was crisp at 50 degrees. There is essentially no shade on this hike so bring sunscreen.
Gear: We wore 1-2 layers for warmth, solid hiking boots, hat & sunglasses. The boots are only necessary for the scrambling and walking on slick rock surfaces.
Trail Navigation: There really isn’t a trail here, but expect to walk 1-2 miles exploring and scrambling around.
Water & Food: We drank about a liter each, but in the warmer months you should definitely bring extra water because it gets hot here. There are no amenities around.
Trailhead Info: Right off the parking lot is the trail to the White Pocket area. It’s not long before you’re in the midst of the spectacular rocks and formations.
Pictures of White Pocket:
From the parking spots it’s a short walk before you start to feel like you’re exploring on another planet.
As if the colorful wave formations were not enough, the Vermillion cliffs in the background provide a stunning scene.
Notice the multitude of layers that run along the wavy sandstone floors.
Stunning formations just out of the desert sand.
There are sections here where you feel like you’re on an extraterrestrial wave.
The colors move their way up the sandstone formations.
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.
