Posted in Arizona February 13, 2017 by Monica Spencer

The One Place In Arizona That Must Be Seen To Be Believed

Arizona is a non-stop viewing pleasure. It’s home to the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, and plenty of other iconic landscapes that most people would only be able to see in the movies or in their dreams. We’re fortunate to have those right in our backyard!

I think all of these places are gorgeous but if there’s any place that is dreamy and a rare find, it would have to be The Wave at Vermilion Cliffs National Monument.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/

The Wave is located just a few hundred feet short of the Arizona-Utah border in the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument.

Pretty in pictures, it is even more stunning in person, appearing as though a long, textured ribbon unfurled across the desert landscape.

If you’ve ever visited Antelope Canyon, you’ll probably notice some striking similarities. That’s not a coincidence.

Slot canyons like Antelope Canyon are formed through water erosion, creating the soft, curvy lines and smooth surface. The Wave was formed through wind erosion to the sandstone, which created a grainy, more textured surface.

Because of the delicate nature of the sandstone, visitors to the formation are limited and advised to tread lightly to avoid damage.

To reduce human impact to the area, visitation numbers are kept low through a lottery system that chooses a handful of people to visit daily.

A visit here is absolutely unforgettable, though, and makes for some of the most stunning landscape photos you will ever see!

Another great time to visit: the days following a storm. Pools like this can create a mirror-like effect and you'll often find little tadpoles come to life inside.

All in all, this is one incredible rock formation that deserves a spot on your bucket list!

For more information about visiting Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, visit the Bureau of Land Management website. You can also check out their website about obtaining a permit for Coyote Buttes North to enter the lottery to visit The Wave.

Have you had a chance to visit this incredible wonder? What was your experience like?

If you want to check out some more incredible rock formations that are a little more accessible, you may want to read up on Chiricahua National Monument in This Jaw Dropping Place In Arizona Will Blow You Away. The views you’ll find here definitely will!