Description
The 3,000-foot escarpment of the Vermilion Cliffs reveals seven major geologic formations in layer-cake fashion. This remote, unspoiled 294,000-acre national monument is a geologic treasure of towering cliffs, deep canyons, and spectacular sandstone formations, containing the Paria Plateau, Vermilion Cliffs, Coyote Buttes and Paria Canyon. Elevations range from 3,100 to 6,500 feet.
Directions
Take U.S. Highway 89 and U.S. Highway Alternate 89 (89A) from Page, Arizona for approximately 30 miles to the south and west. From Kanab, Utah, take U.S. Highway Alternate 89 (89A) south and then east from Jacob Lake to the cliffs. To reach the Paria Contact Station from Kanab, take U.S. Highway 89 east approximately 41 miles. From Page, take U.S. Highway 89 west 33 miles. The Paria Contact Station is open 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (MST/MDT) Wednesday through Sunday from March 15 to November 15.
Visitor Activities
Scenic driving, geologic sightseeing, hiking, backpacking, camping, birdwatching, photography, wildlife and plant viewing. House Rock Valley Road/BLM 1065 may be impassable when wet.
Special Features
The spectacular geology of the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument encompasses sandstone formations, high cliffs, and rugged canyons. The Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness is located mostly within the National Monument and was designated in 1984. Paria Canyon offers an outstanding four to five day wilderness backpacking experience. The National Monument is home to desert bighorn sheep, pronghorns, and at least twenty species of raptors including California Condors, which have been reintroduced into the region.
Permits, Fees, Limitations
Permits are required for hikes in Paria Canyon and the Coyote Buttes Recreation Management Zones. Visits to the area require special planning and awareness of potential hazards such as rugged and unmarked roads, venomous reptiles and invertebrates, extreme heat, deep sand, and flash floods.
Accessibility
No accessible facilities exist in the National Monument.
Camping and Lodging
Three lodges are located along U.S. Highway 89A west of the Navajo Bridge. Other lodging is available at Jacob Lake, Page, Fredonia, AZ and Kanab, UT. There are two campgrounds, Stateline and White House. Dispersed camping is allowed outside the wilderness area and at least ¼ mile from designated campgrounds. Dispersed camping may occur in already disturbed areas only.
Food and Supplies
The nearest places to purchase food and supplies are Page, AZ or Kanab, UT. Limited food and supplies are available at the three lodges.
First Aid
No first aid is available within the National Monument. The nearest reliable first aid is at Lees Ferry (National Park Service), approximately 30 miles southwest of Page, AZ. The nearest hospital is in Flagstaff, AZ, 125 miles away.
Additional Information
Hiking in foothills may be hazardous because of loose rocks, steep slopes, and extreme summer temperatures. Fall through spring are the best times to visit. Restroom facilities are located at Stateline Campground, Paria Contact Station, and the Lee’s Ferry, Wire Pass, and Whitehouse trailheads, just outside the National Monument. Contact the monument office for additional information.
Vermilion Cliffs National Monument
Monument Manager: Kevin Wright
345 E. Riverside Drive
St. George, UT 84790-6714
(435) 688-3200
Hours: 7:45 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday
10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Saturday
Closed Sunday
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