Explore The Wave: Arizona-Utah Border's Geological Marvel

What a beautiful experience. It is a bit difficult because there's a lot of sand and not many markers - they have some temporary ones for a part of the trail right now - but so worth the effort. My dog (I used a hands-free leash, and only unclipped him from his leash for a few seconds for photos) and I started at 6:30 AM and we got back to the car at 11:30 AM. We took plenty of breaks to admire the scenery, drink water, and eat snacks. We went slow, especially on the slick rock, followed the BLM map and photos to help us with the route, and had a great time. I'll remember this for a long time, and I'm so glad I got to enjoy it with my dog. If you can luck out with the permit, it is so, so worth it!!

Hiking The Wave Trail in Arizona was truly one of the most unforgettable experiences I’ve ever had. From the moment we stepped into the sandstone formations, it felt like walking on another planet—almost like being on Mars. The swirling red and orange rock patterns are absolutely surreal. Every curve, every layer of sandstone looks like a piece of natural art carved by time. The textures and colors constantly change depending on the light, making it impossible to stop taking photos. Standing inside the Wave itself feels magical—like you’re inside a living sculpture shaped by wind and water over millions of years. The hike is not extremely long, but it does require preparation. There are no marked trails for much of the route, so navigation skills, proper footwear, and enough water are essential. The desert terrain can be challenging, but the reward at the end is beyond worth it. One of my favorite moments was simply walking through the smooth, flowing rock corridors—it truly felt like exploring Mars. The silence, the vast open landscape, and the unique formations make this place unlike anywhere else in the U.S. If you’re lucky enough to secure a permit, don’t hesitate. The Wave is 100% bucket-list worthy and an adventure you will never forget.

It is worth the time it takes to win the lottery. I spent 2 years trying. My second recommendation if you value photo ops is to hire a guide. Mine took me to some spots I never see pictures of. Really stunning reflective pool and a second boneyard with lace rocks. A guide can shorten your hike if needed or maximize your time for photos going at your pace. The Wave itself is spectacular! I ate guac and chips while taking a break sitting right on it. Take enough water! At least 4 liters and some that is frozen on top of that. You will thank me later.

An otherworldly landscape not to be missed. After applying to the lottery for more than two years, we were finally awarded a permit and built our Arizona excursion around this remarkable destination. While The Wave is the highlight, the journey itself is equally rewarding. The roughly 2.5-mile hike from the trailhead crosses a breathtaking stretch of the Paria Canyon–Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness, revealing sandstone formations shaped nearly 190 million years ago during the Jurassic period. Walking across this landscape transported me back to the classroom and the story of the ancient supercontinent Pangea and the vast desert dune systems that once covered this region. The flowing bands of Navajo Sandstone are actually the preserved cross-sections of massive dunes that once towered hundreds of feet high. Seeing them reminded me of the Sahara in my ancestral homeland of Africa and the deep geological connections that link continents across deep time. One spectacular and unexpected treat during the hike was discovering dinosaur tracks preserved in the stone. Learning that more than 1,000 tracks have been identified throughout this area made the experience even more extraordinary. Standing where dinosaurs once walked nearly 200 million years ago adds a humbling dimension to the journey. Upon reaching The Wave and catching that first glimpse of its swirling stone corridors, I was simply awestruck. The curves appear fluid, almost like frozen waves of sand, yet they were sculpted by wind and water over millions of years at a pace so slow it is nearly unimaginable. This is not a place to rush. It invites quiet reflection. I found myself wanting simply to sit, observe, and commune with the space—taking in the immense beauty and geological time written into every curve of the rock. The Wave feels almost sacred in its stillness. I am grateful that careful permit systems and conservation measures are in place to protect this fragile landscape so that future generations may experience its wonder as well.

Great experience! Difficult hike, but the scenery and experience are worth it! Definitely a great trip! Do your homework and prepare properly. Can be dangerous if you don't bring plenty of water, and proper protective gear and footwear! We'll worth the work to get out there! This was my 4th trip! Gonna sign up for another drawing as soon as I get back!