Uploaded March 2024 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
Complete guide to hiking The Wave in Arizona, permits, directions, route tips, and hidden spots most visitors miss.
*Gear I'm Using Now:*
* inReach: hkgy.co/inreach
* Hiking App: hkgy.co/app
* Watch: hkgy.co/watch
* Shoes: hkgy.co/shoes
* Pack: hkgy.co/backpack
* Rescue Insurance: hkgy.co/insurance
*Full Hiking Gear List (What I Use Now - Tested & Not Sponsored):*
hikingguy.com/gear
*More Hiking Content*
* Guide: hikingguy.com/hikes/the-wave
* Website: hikingguy.com
* Patreon: patreon.com/c/hikingguy
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The Wave sits in North Coyote Buttes and requires a permit through either a four-month advance lottery or a geofenced two-day in-person lottery. I cover how to apply, what to bring to avoid ranger issues, and logistics like lodging, the Wire Pass Trailhead dirt road, and vehicle requirements. The route itself is straightforward if you follow the cairns and terrain features, but I also walk through the hidden formations and viewpoints most people miss. Best hiked October through April to avoid extreme heat. No shade, no water sources, and GPS is highly recommended since the trail isn't marked beyond the first mile.
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*Disclaimer:*
Some of these links are affiliate links where I'll earn a small commission if you make a purchase at no additional cost to you. I only recommend gear I actually use and trust.
Complete guide to hiking The Wave in Arizona, permits, directions, route tips, and hidden spots most visitors miss.
*Gear I'm Using Now:*
* inReach: hkgy.co/inreach
* Hiking App: hkgy.co/app
* Watch: hkgy.co/watch
* Shoes: hkgy.co/shoes
* Pack: hkgy.co/backpack
* Rescue Insurance: hkgy.co/insurance
*Full Hiking Gear List (What I Use Now - Tested & Not Sponsored):*
hikingguy.com/gear
*More Hiking Content*
* Guide: hikingguy.com/hikes/the-wave
* Website: hikingguy.com
* Patreon: patreon.com/c/hikingguy
* Monthly Hiking News (free): patreon.com/c/hikingguy
* Subscribe: youtube.com/c/Hikingguy
The Wave sits in North Coyote Buttes and requires a permit through either a four-month advance lottery or a geofenced two-day in-person lottery. I cover how to apply, what to bring to avoid ranger issues, and logistics like lodging, the Wire Pass Trailhead dirt road, and vehicle requirements. The route itself is straightforward if you follow the cairns and terrain features, but I also walk through the hidden formations and viewpoints most people miss. Best hiked October through April to avoid extreme heat. No shade, no water sources, and GPS is highly recommended since the trail isn't marked beyond the first mile.
---
*Disclaimer:*
Some of these links are affiliate links where I'll earn a small commission if you make a purchase at no additional cost to you. I only recommend gear I actually use and trust.
