Buckskin Gulch ~ House Rock Valley Road
Hike Overview
Wire Pass is a moderate out-and-back hike through a classic, body-width slot canyon with towering sandstone walls. Conditions change seasonally, and the canyon can be wet and muddy after storms. Ladders are used to descend steeper sections, but these can be damaged or washed away during seasonal floods.
The hike can be as short or as long as you want, but the standard out-and-back distance is 3.4 miles to the junction with Buckskin Gulch. One of the best aspects of this hike is that it does not require entering a lottery, or reservation. It does require a permit however.
~ Length: 3.4 Miles or more if you choose
~Elevation Gain: 180 ft
~ Route Type: Out & Back
~ Difficulty: Moderate
~ Permit Required: Yes – $6.00 per person/dog https://www.recreation.gov/activitypass/10006177
~ Dog Friendly: Yes on leash- $6.00 per dog
Directions to the Trailhead
This area is located on House Rock Valley Road BLM – 1065 and can be accessed via Highway 89 Kanab/Page on its north and highway 89A going to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon/Jacob’s Lake on its south end. The road is normally fine for all vehicles unless it is wet. Even the toughest of 4×4 rigs will have issues if the red shale is muddy.
For access from the north end:
Turn onto House Rock valley from Hwy 89 at about mile post 25 on a huge sweeping curve at the top of a steep grade through a large cut in the cliff, there will be a green sign marking the road from both directions. Drive a little over 8.3 miles on an improved road (2wd safe). The trailhead will be a large parking area on the right side of the road.
For access from the South end:
Turn north on to House Rock Valley Rd off of 89A onto House Rock Valley Rd at mile post 565.5. Drive approximately 21 miles on a beautifully scenic dirt road until you come to the large parking area at the trailhead on the left side of the road.
Wire Pass Out and Back Hike Description
Wire Pass is a premier hike through a stunning slot canyon that leads to the junction with the iconic Buckskin Gulch. This world-class trail takes you through towering canyon walls so narrow you must angle your shoulders to squeeze through. At one point, you’ll need to scramble up or down a ladder to navigate a steep section of the wash. At the confluence with Buckskin Gulch, you’ll find a petroglyph panel etched into the Navajo Sandstone by the Ancestral Puebloans over 800 years ago.
You can choose to turn around here or continue to your right and further into Buckskin Gulch. The canyon remains shaded throughout the day, making it colder in winter and pleasantly mild in summer, even on hot days. Be prepared for wet conditions after rain or snow, as the canyon can become muddy. Flash floods are a serious hazard, so check local weather forecasts and avoid hiking during storms or monsoon season. Floods can be so severe they wash out the ladder, rendering the route impassable until repairs are made. As of 2024, the day-use fee for Wire Pass is $6.00 per person/dog, with a proposed increase to $10.00. Obtain your permit online here: Recreation.gov Wire Pass Permit.