Wire Pass Trailhead Utah
Explore a breathtaking slot canyon and ancient petroglyphs at Wire Pass Trailhead, an affordable alternative to Antelope Canyon.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Wire Pass Trailhead Utah
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a breathtaking slot canyon and ancient petroglyphs at Wire Pass Trailhead, an affordable alternative to Antelope Canyon.
"This place is like the Antelope but has much fun, and only $6 per person."
✅ Book Permits Ahead
Secure your permit online via Recreation.gov before arriving to avoid issues with spotty WiFi.
🚗 Drive Carefully on Dirt Road
The road to the trailhead is bumpy. Most cars can manage, but avoid after heavy rain.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wire Pass Slot Canyon
Trailhead to the slot canyon
Wander through a stunning, narrow slot canyon with towering red rock walls. A thrilling adventure for all ages.
Confluence with Buckskin Gulch
End of Wire Pass trail
Experience the junction of two magnificent slot canyons, offering a glimpse into the vastness of Buckskin Gulch.
Petroglyphs
Alcove after the slot canyon
Discover ancient rock art etched into the canyon walls, adding a historical dimension to your hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Permits & Access
Timing & Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
✅ Book Permits Ahead
Secure your permit online via Recreation.gov before arriving to avoid issues with spotty WiFi.
🚗 Drive Carefully on Dirt Road
The road to the trailhead is bumpy. Most cars can manage, but avoid after heavy rain.
💧 Be Prepared for Mud
The canyon can be muddy and wet, especially after rain. Wear appropriate footwear!
🚶♀️ Stick to the Main Path
Follow the main trail into the slot canyon and avoid trails going up and to the right.
Tips
from all over the internet
✅ Book Permits Ahead
Secure your permit online via Recreation.gov before arriving to avoid issues with spotty WiFi.
🚗 Drive Carefully on Dirt Road
The road to the trailhead is bumpy. Most cars can manage, but avoid after heavy rain.
💧 Be Prepared for Mud
The canyon can be muddy and wet, especially after rain. Wear appropriate footwear!
🚶♀️ Stick to the Main Path
Follow the main trail into the slot canyon and avoid trails going up and to the right.
☀️ Sun Protection
The initial part of the trail is exposed. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Wire Pass Trail for its stunning slot canyon scenery, petroglyphs, and affordability compared to other attractions. Many highlight its family-friendly nature and the thrill of exploring the narrow passages. Some note the drive can be bumpy and advise checking weather for flash floods.
"1. I left my reservation form in my hotel, but had it saved on my phone, so pulled it up and wrote the number on paper and put it under my windshield. A woman volunteer was there checking cars for passes and said this was ok. One is supposed to sign in in a book and I did not see that, by the restrooms, so didn't sign in. Plenty of parking.
2. The trail is across the road from the parking lot. It was easy walking on the sand, and fun to see the flowers and bushes. Soon a tight turn to the left is fun and you get closer to the rocks.
3. Before one enters the slot, the rocks on the left are fun to hike up on, similar to a Wave experience.
4. The slot is great, and all that you came for. The ladder short and easy. Quite a thrill. But the canyon is a litle short.
5. At Buckskin, if you are going right, there is a human tendency to go to the center of the space and look north up the canyon to the left, but then you will be walking in rather dificult sand and rocks. It is better at Buckskin to stay close to the rightside wall, which is where the trail is, and not venture into the middle of the open space until the return.
6. Buckskin going south had lots of rocks one had to step on, and had some water, so I turned around.
We loved Wire Pass."
Seth Washburne
"Wire Pass is a great option for a slot canyon experience mixed with petroglyphs, high red rock walls and open space rock formations. There are a couple of ladders but you can enjoy most of the trail avoiding these by going around. Once you start on the trail stick to the main path and it will turn into a slot canyon. Avoid trail going up and to the right as you walk. The drive to the trail is down a fairly long fire road that almost any car can navigate except if it had rained a lot."
Guy Cutting
"This is absolutely amazing! In and out about 3.5 miles, if you are in Page instead of paying $160 per person to see the upper Antelope Canyon, and has to follow the group, this place is like the Antelope but has much fun, and only $6 per person."
Amy Yu
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Wire Pass Trailhead is located off Highway 89, about halfway between Kanab, Utah, and Page, Arizona. The final stretch is a dirt road that is generally passable for most vehicles, though it can be rough and prone to washouts after rain. 
Yes, most regular cars can navigate the dirt road to the trailhead, but caution is advised, especially after rain. Some travelers have seen sedans and even RVs make it.
The drive involves a fairly long dirt road that can be bumpy. It's manageable for most vehicles, but avoid it if there's been significant rainfall.
Wire Pass Trailhead is approximately 50 minutes west of Page, Arizona, making it a convenient day trip.
Wire Pass Trailhead is about 50 minutes east of Kanab, Utah, offering another accessible route for visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a permit is required for day use at Wire Pass Trailhead. You can purchase it online in advance via Recreation.gov or at the onsite kiosk, though onsite WiFi can be unreliable.
The permit fee is typically $6 per person. It's recommended to secure this in advance to ensure entry.
You can check in and pay at the kiosk in the parking lot, but the WiFi signal can be spotty. It's best to have your permit secured online beforehand.
There are no specific operating hours listed, as it's an outdoor trail. However, it's advisable to visit during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
Yes, there is ample parking available at the trailhead, even when it appears busy.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
The trail starts with easy walking on sand and leads into a narrow slot canyon. It's about 3.4 miles round trip and features some fun rock formations and petroglyphs.
Absolutely! It's considered a great family-friendly hike. While there are a couple of short ladders, most can be bypassed. +1
The hike is typically 3 to 3.5 miles out and back, taking around 1.5 to 2 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how much you stop to explore.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes suitable for sand and potentially wet conditions. Layers are recommended, and bring sun protection.
Yes, Wire Pass Trailhead offers direct access to Buckskin Gulch, one of the longest slot canyons in the world. It's a popular route for day hikes.
📸 📸 Photography
The narrow slot canyon walls, the confluence with Buckskin Gulch, and the ancient petroglyphs offer incredible photographic opportunities. The light filtering into the canyon can be spectacular.
Mid-morning to early afternoon often provides the best light for capturing the colors and textures of the slot canyon. However, early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds.
Use a wide-angle lens to capture the scale of the canyon walls. Be mindful of dynamic range, as the contrast between light and shadow can be extreme.
Drone usage is generally restricted in wilderness areas like the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. Check current regulations before flying.
A sturdy camera with a wide-angle lens is ideal. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections and enhance colors. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The slot canyon itself is exciting and offers a sense of adventure without being overly strenuous. Key tips for families: Secure your permits in advance online. Bring plenty of water and snacks, as the initial part of the trail is exposed. While there are a couple of short ladders, they are easy to navigate, and most can be bypassed if needed. The unique rock formations and the chance to see ancient petroglyphs will keep kids engaged.
💰 Budget Travelers
The permit fee is minimal (around $6 per person), and the drive to the trailhead is manageable for most vehicles. This makes it an incredibly cost-effective way to enjoy a world-class natural wonder. Pack your own food and water to save even more on expenses.
🚶♀️ Solo Adventurers
Safety first: While the trail is generally safe, always inform someone of your hiking plans, check weather conditions for flash floods, and carry sufficient water. The relatively short distance and clear path make it a comfortable option for a solo excursion.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Slot Canyon Experience
As you venture deeper, you'll encounter the confluence with Buckskin Gulch, a much longer and more extensive slot canyon system. This junction point offers a dramatic visual contrast and a sense of the vastness of the surrounding wilderness. Keep an eye out for ancient petroglyphs on the canyon walls, adding a layer of historical intrigue to your exploration.
While the hike is generally easy, be prepared for sandy terrain and potential water or mud, especially after rainfall. The narrow passages can create unique lighting conditions, making it a photographer's dream. The thrill of navigating these natural corridors makes Wire Pass a must-visit for anyone seeking an unforgettable desert adventure.
Navigating the Dirt Road & Trail Conditions
Once you reach the trailhead, the path itself is primarily sandy. The initial section is exposed to the sun, so sun protection is essential. As you progress, the trail narrows into the slot canyon, providing welcome shade. Be aware that the canyon floor can be uneven, and in wetter periods, you might encounter water or mud, requiring careful footing.
For those looking to extend their adventure, the trail connects to Buckskin Gulch. If you plan to explore further into Buckskin, be prepared for more challenging terrain, including navigating rocks and deeper sand, especially if you venture into the center of the wider sections. Staying close to the canyon walls is often recommended for an easier passage.
Wire Pass vs. Antelope Canyon
Wire Pass provides a self-guided slot canyon experience that is significantly more affordable, with a permit fee of around $6 per person. Visitors often describe Wire Pass as offering a similar, if not more adventurous, experience, allowing for more freedom to explore at your own pace.
Although Wire Pass might not have the same level of polished infrastructure as Antelope Canyon, its natural beauty, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness make it a highly recommended option for those seeking a slot canyon adventure without the hefty price tag.
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