4×4 ~ Hiking ~ Paria Plateau
Trip Overview
Type of Hike : Meandering Out and Back
Length: 1-3 Miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
Terrain: Slickrock sandstone
Elevation Gain: 50-100 feet
Dog Friendly: Yes on leash
Park Pass/Permit Required: No
Hike Approach: 4×4 mandatory
Directions To the Road:
Access from the North End:
- From Hwy 89, turn onto House Rock Valley Road at approximately milepost 25. This turn is marked by a green sign visible from both directions, situated on a large sweeping curve at the top of a steep grade through a cliff cut.
- Drive 20 miles on House Rock Valley Road, passing the turnoff for Paw Hole/Lone Tree Trailhead, until you reach the Pine Tree Road turnoff. You will see a large cattle corral across from this turnoff.
- Travel 6.2 miles on the maintained gravel road to Pine Tree Pocket Ranch. At the fork, turn left onto Big Sink Road and continue for 4 miles to the Big Sink fork.
- At the fork, turn left onto White Pocket Road and drive 5.5 miles to the trailhead.
- If you want to take the Paw Hole loop back, turn right 1.5 miles after leaving the White Pocket Trailhead onto Sand Hill Fence Road.
Access from the South End:
- Turn onto House Rock Valley Road from Hwy 89A at milepost 565.5. You’ll see a ranch house on the left and a corral/barn on the right at the turn.
- Drive 9.5 miles on House Rock Valley Road to the Pine Tree Road turnoff. A large cattle corral will be across from the turnoff.
- Proceed 6.2 miles on the maintained gravel road to Pine Tree Pocket Ranch. At the fork, turn left onto Big Sink Road and go 4 miles to the Big Sink fork.
- At the fork, turn left onto White Pocket Road and drive 5.5 miles to the trailhead.
- To take the Paw Hole loop back, turn right 1.5 miles after leaving the White Pocket Trailhead onto Sand Hill Fence Road.
White Pocket Hike Description:
One of the premier destinations in Vermillion Cliffs National Monument, White Pocket is a remarkable sandstone formation situated on the remote Paria Plateau. A stunning and otherworldly landscape this remote sandstone formation is renowned for its striking, white rock layers and intricate patterns created by wind and water erosion. The terrain features vibrant, swirling colors and unique rock formations that evoke a sense of surreal beauty. Its remote location on the Paria Plateau ensures a serene, uncrowded experience, making it a favorite for photographers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts seeking an extraordinary and peaceful escape into nature’s artistry. The hiking is a trailless meander and is rated easy to moderate depending on your route choice.
Four-wheel drive and experience with soft conditions are essential, as the plateau’s roads are unpredictable and easy to get lost on. Ensure you have ample fuel and supplies, and be prepared for potential breakdowns or getting lost. To access White Pocket, take Pine Tree Road to White Pocket Road. For a varied return route, consider taking Sand Hill Fence Road to Paw Hole, but remember that Paw Hole Road is one-way due to its narrowness and softness. At Poverty, explore old cabins and structures for a glimpse into the past. From the White Pocket trailhead, it’s a short 200-yard walk to the stunning white sandstone formations. Hike in any direction to fully experience the breathtaking scenery!
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