How To: Get a permit for the 'Wave'

The Wave's main section, by Deb Stanley 

Have you seen the spectacular pictures of "The Wave?" It's a sandstone formation on the Arizona/Utah border in an area called the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. And while it's not a Colorado hike, I've been dying to see this place for myself.

"The Wave" isn't a place you just drive to, put your boots on and go. You need a permit.

Only 20 people are allowed in per day. 10 via an internet lottery four months in advance and 10 via an in person drawing the day before.

www.wildlifephototour.com

Since we live so far away, I wanted a permit in hand before we went, I didn't want to take my chances in person.

Here's how the internet lottery works. You fill out a form on the BLM's Web site. You're allowed to pick three days you want during a one month time frame. The lottery costs $5 and there's no guarantee you'll get a permit.

The lottery is held on the first day of the month, to get permits four months later.

If you're chosen, you're notified within hours. Then you have to pay for your permits ($7 each). The permits come in the mail 4 to 6 weeks later.

Not only do you get a hiking permit, you also get a parking permit and very specific directions for finding "The Wave." The directions come with photos to show landmarks to follow.

The hike is about 3 miles each way to get to a beautiful place.

My permit is for April, so expect to see more after I get back! (Read the article about my trip here.)

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