Buckskin Gulch: A Simple Guide for Your First Hike

If you're looking for a hike that feels like stepping into a canyon maze, buckskin gulch is one of the most exciting places to start. This area is part of the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness, and it offers some of the most beautiful slot canyons in the American Southwest. The narrow sandstone walls stretch high above your head, and the silence of the canyon makes it feel like another world. 

You don’t need special climbing skills or advanced gear for the day hike. Just the right information, a permit, and smart planning will help you enjoy it fully. This blog will walk you through everything you need to know before you go—from how to reach the trail to what you should bring. Whether you’ve never done a slot canyon hike before or you’ve been curious about this trail for a while, this guide is for you. 

The Canyon Starts Here 

Buckskin is often called the longest slot canyon in the U.S. It stretches over 20 miles, but you don’t have to hike all of it. Most hikers start from a side canyon called Wire Pass. This is the most popular way in because it gives you quick access to the narrowest and most scenic parts. 

After about 1.7 miles from the Wire Pass trailhead, you’ll reach a junction where Wire Pass meets the main canyon. This is where the real experience begins. From there, you can walk either direction through tall, tight canyon walls, sandy paths, and sometimes even pools of water. 

Getting There 

The Wire Pass trailhead is located on House Rock Valley Road, a dirt road that runs between Kanab, Utah, and Page, Arizona. It’s about 8 miles off Highway 89. When the road is dry, most cars can handle it. But after rain, it becomes muddy and slick, and even 4WD vehicles can have trouble. 

Before heading out, always check the weather and road conditions. Rain in the area or even miles away can create flash floods in the canyons. 

Do You Need a Permit? 

Yes. All hikers need a day-use permit. It costs $6 per person and must be purchased online before your hike. If you’re bringing a dog, you’ll also need a permit for your pet. 

For overnight trips, the permit rules are stricter. Only 20 people per day are allowed to enter for backpacking, and permits for that sell out months in advance. 

What the Trail Is Like 

The hike from Wire Pass to the main canyon is fairly flat. At the start, you’ll walk through a dry wash with sand and rocks. The first narrow section comes quickly, with steep walls that make the air cool and shaded. There’s a small drop that usually has a wooden ladder to help you down. 

Once you enter Buckskin, the canyon gets even deeper and tighter. You’ll find places where the walls are just a few feet apart. Some sections may have standing water, especially after storms or during spring. The water might be ankle-deep or knee-deep, and it can be muddy. 

There’s no set end point for a day hike. You can go in as far as you’re comfortable, then turn around the same way. Most hikers go about 2–4 miles into the main canyon before heading back, making it a 5 to 7-mile round trip. 

Is It Safe? 

Slot canyons are beautiful but not without risks. The biggest danger is flash flooding. Because the canyon is so narrow, even a small amount of water can rise quickly. This happens most often during summer thunderstorms, even if the storm is many miles away. 

To stay safe: 

• Check the weather forecast for the entire region. 

• Don’t go if there’s any chance of rain. 

• Let someone know your plans. 

• Start early so you can be back before dark. 

What to Bring 

You don’t need much for a simple day hike, but you do need to be smart about what you pack. 

• At least 3 liters of water per person 

• Snacks or a light lunch 

• Good hiking shoes or sandals that can get wet 

• Dry socks or shoes to change into afterward 

• A small towel or bandana 

• A hat and sunscreen (you’ll be in and out of the sun) 

• A printed or downloaded map 

• A phone or GPS device 

• A trash bag (everything you bring in must be packed out) 

There are no water sources in the canyon, and no cell service. There’s a toilet at the Wire Pass trailhead, but no water or trash bins. 

When to Go 

Spring and fall are the best seasons. March through May and September through early November bring cooler temperatures and lower flood risk. Summer can be very hot and has a high chance of storms. Winter is cold, and ice can make the trail slippery. 

Try to start early in the day. That way you’ll avoid the hottest hours and have more daylight to enjoy the hike. 

How Long Does It Take? 

If you’re only hiking to the confluence and back, plan for about 3 to 4 hours. If you go deeper into the canyon, give yourself more time—up to 6 hours or more depending on your pace and how much you stop. 

Always give yourself enough time to return before dark, especially in fall or winter when the sun sets early. 

What Makes It Special 

This hike isn’t just about pretty views. It’s quiet, peaceful, and gives you time to slow down. The high sandstone walls block out sound, and in some places, you can’t even see the sky. 

You’ll also find ancient rock carvings (petroglyphs) along the canyon walls. Please don’t touch them. They’ve been there for hundreds of years and need to stay untouched. 

Tips for a Good Trip 

• Bring extra socks. Wet feet can make the hike less fun. 

• Wear shoes with good grip. 

• Avoid cotton clothes—they stay wet and heavy. 

• Be ready to turn around if the weather changes. 

• Leave no trash behind. Even food scraps attract animals. 

Where Silence Echoes 

If you’re looking for a hike that gives you both adventure and quiet beauty, buckskin gulch is worth the trip. You don’t need to hike the full 20 miles to enjoy it. Even a short walk into the canyon gives you a full experience. Just plan well, pack smart, and stay aware of the weather. 

For a clear and friendly guide that breaks down the trail step by step, check out the post from Unicorn Adventure. It’s helpful, detailed, and written from real hiking experience.