Buckskin Gulch

Buckskin Gulch Overview

Buckskin Gulch is a remarkable slot canyon situated in southern Kane County, Utah, with its boundaries extending near the Arizona border. It is an integral part of the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness and stands as one of the primary tributaries feeding into the Paria River, which ultimately flows into the mighty Colorado River.

Geological Significance

Renowned for its impressive dimensions, Buckskin Gulch is recognized as one of the longest and deepest slot canyons found within the Southwestern United States. The canyon is characterized by its dramatic, narrow passages that twist and curve, a signature feature of slot canyons, particularly evident in its short tributary, Wire Pass, which also serves as a common access point.

Access and Regulations

Access to Buckskin Gulch is facilitated via U.S. Route 89 in Utah, located roughly midway between the towns of Kanab, Utah, and Page, Arizona. Multiple trailheads provide entry, including the Buckskin Trailhead and Wire Pass Trailhead, among others. Visitors should be aware that permits are required for both day hiking and overnight backpacking within the canyon and the broader wilderness area. These permits are administered by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and are limited to twenty overnight permits per day, with group sizes restricted to ten individuals. Strict environmental regulations are in place, prohibiting campfires and mandating that human waste be packed out rather than buried to preserve the delicate ecosystem.