Wire Pass to White House Trail

Yes, permits are required for both day use and overnight trips within the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness, which includes this trail. Overnight permits are limited and must be reserved in advance. You can find more information and apply for permits on the BLM website.

This 21-mile route is considered a difficult, challenging endeavor, often undertaken as a multi-day backpacking trip. It involves navigating tight slot canyons, scrambling over obstacles, potential muddy pools, downclimbs with ropes, and multiple river crossings. It is not suitable for beginners.

The terrain is highly varied. You'll start in a sandy desert wash, which quickly narrows into the towering cliff walls of Wire Pass Slot Canyon, sometimes just two feet wide. Expect obstacles like a 10-15 foot drop (often aided by a ladder) and scrambles. Within Buckskin Gulch, you may encounter muddy pools ranging from ankle-deep to waist-deep. The final miles involve multiple crossings of the Paria River and deep sand.

The best times to hike are typically spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) when temperatures are milder. Summer can bring extreme heat and increased risk of flash floods, which are a significant danger in slot canyons. Always check weather forecasts for the entire region before and during your trip.

Dogs are generally allowed in the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness, but specific regulations and leash requirements may apply, especially within the slot canyons. Given the challenging terrain, including tight squeezes, drops, and potential deep water, this trail can be very difficult for dogs. Always check current regulations with the BLM before bringing your pet.

The trail typically starts at the Wire Pass Trailhead. Parking is available there, but due to the trail being a one-way route ending at the White House Trailhead, you will need to arrange a shuttle or a car drop-off/pickup at both ends.

The primary allure is the breathtaking scenery of the slot canyons, particularly Wire Pass Slot Canyon and Buckskin Gulch, considered the longest and deepest slot canyon in the world. You'll be enveloped by towering rock walls, 100-400 feet high, with ever-changing colors. Further along, you'll experience the broader Paria River Canyon, offering different vistas and the Pond at Buckskin Gulch.

There is no reliable potable water source along the majority of the trail until you reach the Paria River, which requires filtration. You must carry all the water you need for the duration of your trip, especially given the desert environment and potential for extreme heat. Essential gear includes plenty of water, food, navigation tools, first-aid, sun protection, and appropriate footwear for sand, mud, and water.

Flash floods are a significant danger, especially during monsoon season; always check weather forecasts. The trail's remoteness means help is far away, so self-sufficiency is crucial. Extreme heat, particularly in summer, can lead to heatstroke. Other concerns include navigating difficult terrain, potential deep mud/water, and exposure to the elements.

The full 21-mile Wire Pass to White House route is generally undertaken as a multi-day backpacking trip, typically 2-3 days, due to its length and challenging terrain. While the moving time is estimated around 9 hours, the overall duration will be much longer when accounting for breaks, obstacles, and overnight stays.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Buckskin Gulch, Buckskin Gulch Trail, White House / Paria River Trail, and the Wire Pass Trail. A small portion also intersects with the Hayduke Trail #9.