Paria Canyon – Only 20 People Allowed Per Day
The federal government does not designate its public lands without forethought. If a “national park” is created it is intended to be visited. If a “wilderness” is designated the land is intended to be preserved. That is why places like Zion and the Grand Canyon are designed to handle many thousands of visitors a day. And that is why the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness allows 20 overnight passes per day.
It is certainly the lucky explorer indeed who is able to spend the night camped beneath the towering cliffs of Paria Canyon. Millions of years of water flowing across the Colorado Plateau have sculpted iron-streaked sandstone into wavy walls 1000 feet high. A definite highlight is Buckskin Gulch, considered the world’s longest slot canyon. This tributary of Paria Canyon is about 13 miles long and although the sandy passage is nearly level it can require a full day to conquer – when you include all the time spent filling the memory card on your camera with photographs. After Buckskin Gulch the Paria Canyon widens out as it winds its way towards the Colorado River, matching the narrow spaces of the slot canyon memory for memory.
The wilderness swallows over 112,000 acres of northern Arizona and the hike through Paria Canyon covers 38 miles – one way. And since this is a wilderness there are no signs on the trail. There is plenty of wet hiking due to frequent river crossings and occasional waist-high wading through murky pool. And a boulder jam. There are several wonderful side hikes such as must-see Wrather Arch in the secluded recesses of Wrather Canyon.
So to fully enjoy Paria Canyon you are going to need transportation, navigation, mastery of regulations and inside knowledge of all there is to see. Does that sound like a guide might be helpful? At Four Season Guides we block out five or six days to backpack this legendary canyon twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall.
Frequently Asked Questions
Discover everything you need to know about exploring Paria Canyon and its exclusive wilderness hiking experience.
Why are only 20 people allowed per day in Paria Canyon?
Paria Canyon is part of the Paria Canyon–Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness, a federally protected area designed for preservation. To maintain its natural beauty and limit environmental impact, only 20 overnight permits are issued per day. This ensures a true wilderness experience and protects the fragile ecosystem.
How do I get a permit for Paria Canyon?
Permits are issued by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) through an online lottery system. You must apply months in advance due to high demand and limited availability. Each permit allows overnight access, and day hiking in certain sections may require separate authorization.
How long is the Paria Canyon hike?
The full Paria Canyon trail spans about 38 miles one way, stretching from the Utah border to Lees Ferry in Arizona. Most hikers complete it in five to six days, depending on pace, weather, and side trips such as Wrather Arch or Buckskin Gulch.
What is Buckskin Gulch and why is it famous?
Buckskin Gulch is a 13-mile-long tributary of Paria Canyon, renowned as the world’s longest slot canyon. It’s known for its narrow sandstone walls, dramatic light beams, and challenging terrain. Many hikers consider it a highlight of the Paria Canyon backpacking route.
What is the best time of year to hike Paria Canyon?
Spring and fall are the most popular seasons for hiking Paria Canyon. During these months, temperatures are moderate, and flash flood risks are lower than in summer. Winter can be cold, and summer heat can be extreme, especially in exposed areas.
Do I need a guide to hike Paria Canyon?
While experienced backpackers can hike Paria Canyon independently, hiring a guide is highly recommended. Guided trips, such as those offered by Four Season Guides, provide navigation support, logistical help, and safety expertise—especially useful in remote wilderness areas with few trail markers.
What should I expect on the Paria Canyon trail?
Expect a rugged wilderness experience with frequent river crossings, wading through pools, and some scrambling over boulders. There are no marked trails, limited cell service, and minimal facilities, so preparation and self-sufficiency are essential.
What gear do I need for a Paria Canyon backpacking trip?
Waterproof boots or sturdy sandals, trekking poles, a map and GPS, dry bags, and sufficient food and water are must-haves. Because of wet hiking conditions and potential flash floods, lightweight, quick-drying clothing and emergency gear are also recommended.
Can I do Paria Canyon as a day hike?
Certain areas, such as Buckskin Gulch, can be visited as a day hike with a separate permit. However, the full Paria Canyon trek typically requires multiple days due to its length and terrain. Overnight backpacking offers a deeper experience of the canyon’s beauty.
What makes Paria Canyon unique compared to other Southwest hikes?
Unlike heavily trafficked national parks, Paria Canyon offers solitude, silence, and raw natural beauty. Its sculpted sandstone walls, narrow slot passages, and remote setting provide a rare wilderness adventure—one of the few remaining places where nature truly dominates.
Four Season Guides, 506 N Grant St suite o, Flagstaff, AZ 86004, United States
+19285251552
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