vermilion cliffs national monument

Driving highway 89A in Northern Arizona one cannot help but be amazed by the beauty of the Vermilion Cliffs. This is definitely a must-see when driving down this highway.

The vermilion cliffs are beautiful and a must see. We explored the cliffs as part of the white pockets tour.

We were passing Vermilion Cliffs when drive from Flagstaff to Zion National Park. Beautiful scenery, well worst stopping by if you are near this area. However, it is not a destination by itself; Zion or Bryce Canyons are more dramatic.

My sis and I took a ride to this loc, and had spectacular views to take photos. We went by Balancing rock , just a road side area to stop n see!!!! the total ride thru this area is awesome colors, from the reds to whites etc.

There are lots of beautiful areas to enjoy here. You can hike, 4 x 4 near the beauty or see it from the comfort of your vehicle from the highway(s.) Do some research and have a great time.

We drove around the monument on our way from The Grand Canyon to Zion National Park and it was absolutely beautiful! We didn't have time for hiking (only the occasional photo op) but I would love to go back and experience it a little more. We didn't even know it was there and we were very glad to have such amazing scenery on a long drive.

Challenging hike with wonderful scenery. We also had a permit to South Coyote Buttes and saw wonderful scenery there, too.

Stayed at the Cliff Dwellers Lodge and this was our view from room. So, beautiful and peace full incredible sunset as we ate dinner at the restaurant which was so delicious!

We drove around the monument on our way back from the north rim of the Grand Canyon and we never tired of the great views. The varied topography of the American West never ceases to amaze us, and this was one more example of why we keep coming back!

The road to the start of the hiking trail is rough (8 miles dirt road) . The hike itself has the most stunning colors - especially if you go during midday, when the sun shines into the gorge and plays with the sandstone. We had to climb up and down some rocks and some parts are very narrow, but it was an excellent experience.

We made a quick stop here on our way to Page, AZ. This is not for the unconditioned walker/hiker. The trail is deep sand and not any paving. The climb is steep and in the hot AZ July sun a challenge. Plenty of folks trying to make it to the first covered area a gazebo. From that vantage point one can enjoy a vista which includes the Vermilion Cliffs in the distance. For the hearty there is another 1/4 + mile downhill to look at Horseshoe Bend where the Colorado River flowing South begins to flow North. The park ranger said it is one of the most photographed areas in Arizona. Unfortunately we were not up for the additional walk which is downhill going to the rim but uphill coming back. Many in our group did take the challenge and said it was worth the trek!!! We rested undercover and enjoyed a talk by the ranger regarding what we were enjoying around us. WATER IS A MUST, A HAT IS A MUST, GOOD WALKING SHOES AND WALKING STICKS HELPED MY HUSBAND AS WELL.....SEVERAL PEOPLE CARRIED UMBRELLAS TO SHIELD THEMSELVES FROM THE HOT SUN.

We drove along the cliffs but unfortunately did not make it up top as it is a significant haul from Lake Powell where we were staying. Still the stunning view from down below was worth the time investing as we drove north toward Page. Be aware that while posted on the north-south route of Hwy 89 the road closure is posted but not on the south-north route. A section of the road 18 miles south of Page is closed due to a landslide and may never reopen. Plan on taking Hwy 89A or 89T. We came up 89T and it provided some excellent views. If you plan on staying at Lake Powell for more than a day this monument would be well worth the drive.

Kyle and Steve are great hosts and guides. Very flexible and accommodating. We had Steve as our guide to White Pocket (do Buckskin Gulch instead) and he was both knowledgeable and humorous - fun guy. If you want to tour Vermilion Cliffs in Arizona, these are the people to do it with whether you're staying in Kanab, Utah or Page, Arizona.This doesn't really qualify as an "attraction" - it's a tour guide service.

Upper Antelope may be a "must-see", but everyone tourist in the West will be there seeing it. For a much more meaningful and enriching experience, go to the Vermilion Cliffs Ranger station and ask about slot canyons and other extraordinary geological formations in the area. There are many, and they are not choked with the camera armies. For some, you may have to be relatively fit, but the rangers can aim you in the appropriate directions.

This is a beautiful area - especially The Wave. It is easy to get lost however. Take lots of water. The Wave is truly unique and well worth a visit if you can get a permit.