Paria Canyon (2BVI)

Location: Paria Canyon Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness, AZ / UT
Rating: Basic Canyoneering 2B VI (non-technical canyon with distance, water, and commitment)
Length: 3 to 5 days
Mileage: ~38 miles
Longest Rappel: None
Start: White House Trailhead
End: Lees Ferry
Permits: Required (BLM Paria Canyon permit)
Wetsuit: Optional depending on season
Shuttle: Required

Overview: Paria Canyon is a classic Colorado Plateau canyon offering a multi-day journey through towering sandstone walls, flowing water, and remote desert terrain. The route follows the Paria River from White House Trailhead to Lees Ferry, where it meets the Colorado River. The hiking portion of Paria begins in southern Utah and ends in Arizona. 

This is a non-technical canyon but should not be underestimated. The length, continuous water travel, and limited exit options make it a committing wilderness route.

Approach: From Page, travel west on Hwy 89 approximately 30 miles. Between mileposts 20 and 21, turn south onto the road near the Paria Ranger Station. Follow this dirt road approximately 2 miles to White House Trailhead. The road is typically passable but may become muddy and difficult after storms. 

Shuttle Setup: A long shuttle is required between White House Trailhead and Lees Ferry. To stage your exit vehicle, drive to Lees Ferry via Hwy 89A near Marble Canyon. Turn toward Lees Ferry and follow the paved road to the parking area at the Colorado River. This is your exit point.

After dropping a vehicle at Lees Ferry, drive back to White House Trailhead to begin your hike.

Many outfitters in the area offer shuttle services, which provide a convenient alternative and allow you to avoid managing the long return drive.

Route Description: From White House Trailhead, descend into Paria Canyon and begin traveling downstream along the Paria River.

Expect continuous creek walking along a sandy riverbed, with occasional deeper pools that may require wading. The route is framed by towering canyon walls that shift between shaded sections and more open stretches, creating a varied and scenic canyon experience throughout the hike.

After several miles, Buckskin Gulch enters from the right, adding to the scale and significance of the canyon.

Further downstream, the canyon gradually begins to widen. Near Bush Head Canyon, the terrain opens and a trail develops along the right side of the canyon above the river.

This trail continues past historical sites and open desert terrain as you approach Lees Ferry.

Water is present throughout most of the route, and you should expect continuous wet travel for extended portions of the canyon. Water quality varies and should always be treated before consumption. Conditions can change significantly depending on the season and recent weather, affecting both water levels and clarity.

Exit Options: While side canyon exits exist, they are difficult, route finding intensive, not commonly used, very remote. Most parties complete the full route to Lees Ferry.