Sunset Butte and Cottonwood Teepees Loop

Yes, permits are required for the Coyote Buttes South area, which encompasses this loop. These permits are highly limited to 20 individuals per day, so it's essential to plan well in advance to secure one for your visit to Vermilion Cliffs National Monument.

Accessing the trailhead for this remote loop requires a high-clearance 4WD vehicle. The roads are challenging, featuring deep sand and potential mud holes. Be aware that there is no cell service in this area, so come prepared with offline maps and emergency communication.

The best time to hike this trail is typically during the spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) when temperatures are milder. Summer can be extremely hot, and winter may bring cold temperatures and potential for mud after rain or snow.

As this trail is located within Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, specific regulations regarding pets apply. Generally, dogs are allowed on trails but must be kept on a leash. However, it's always best to check the official National Monument website for the most current pet policies before your visit.

The terrain is largely untrailed wilderness, characterized by loose rocks, dirt, deep sand, and slickrock surfaces. You should also be prepared for potential mud holes, especially after rain, and some sections may require light rock scrambling. Patches of slickrock and sandy slopes are common.

This route is renowned for its visually stunning sandstone formations. You'll encounter iconic 'red rock teepees' at Cottonwood Teepees, striped slickrock, thin fins, and various wind-sculpted erosional statues. Other notable formations include 'Dali Rock', 'Turtle Rock', 'The Frog', and 'The Chess Queen', along with 'gumdrops' and 'mini waves' formed by water erosion. You'll also pass by The Wave (Coyote Buttes South) and Coyote Buttes South (Brain Rocks).

While some shorter sections in Coyote Buttes South might be considered easier, the overall Sunset Butte and Cottonwood Teepees Loop is rated as moderate. Its untrailed nature, requirement for off-trail navigation, and challenging access roads make it less suitable for absolute beginners. Hikers should have experience with route-finding and varied terrain.

Yes, sections of this route utilize parts of existing paths. You will find yourself on segments of the Way To Cottonwood Teepees Viewpoint, Way To Cottonwood Teepees, and Way To Sunset Butte during your exploration.

Given the remote and untrailed nature of this loop, you should bring plenty of water (there is no water available on the trail), navigation tools (GPS, map, compass, as cell service is absent), sun protection, sturdy hiking boots, and appropriate layers for changing weather. Snacks, a first-aid kit, and a trash bag for packing out all waste are also essential.

This loop stands out for its exceptional geological formations and the profound sense of solitude it offers, as it receives fewer visitors than more famous spots like 'The Wave'. The untrailed nature of much of the area allows for an exploratory hiking experience, where you can discover unique geological features at your own pace, making it a truly exclusive adventure.

Navigation can be challenging as much of the area is untrailed wilderness, encouraging a 'choose-your-own-adventure' style of exploration. Hikers should be proficient in off-trail navigation using a map, compass, and GPS device, as there are no formal markers and cell service is unavailable.