The Paria Plateau displays a great portion of Arizona's captivating red rock country. Among the 112,500 acres of the Paria Canyon - Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness hikers have found fascinating and picturesque slot canyons sculpted by the Paria River and its tributaries. Multi-colored layers of sandstone waves, narrow side canyons, amazing arch spans and fragile rock formations dot this desert countryside. The wilderness area, just west of Page, Arizona, is controlled by the Bureau of Land Management and may require access permits, especially on overnight adventures.
These intrepid hikers enjoy the challenge of wilderness hiking while paying close attention to the weather. A brief thunderstorm can fill this canyon with a torrent of storm water, leaving hikers limited opportunity for escape.