Reaching this location requires thoughtful planning due to its location and rugged access.

White Pocket in Vermilion Cliffs National Monument is a stunning and remote destination known for its swirling rock formations and surreal desert scenery.

Getting There

White Pocket is tucked deep within Arizona’s Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. The closest town with services is Kanab, Utah, about 70 miles away. The drive includes long stretches of unpaved, sandy roads that require a high-clearance 4WD vehicle—not AWD, not SUV with decent tires—true 4x4 with deep clearance. Many travelers get stuck in the deep sand and clay-like mud, especially after rain. If you’re not 100% confident in your vehicle, consider a guided tour from Kanab or Page instead. You’ll get a safe ride and a local guide who knows the area well.

There are two primary routes:

• From Kanab: Take US-89 to House Rock Valley Road (BLM Road 1065). Drive 38 miles south to the Wire Pass Trailhead, then continue ~14 more miles along deeply sandy roads to White Pocket.

• From Page: Take US-89 north to the Cottonwood Cove Road (BLM Road 700) turnoff. This route is more remote and can be harder to navigate.

Note: After even brief rain, parts of the road—especially near House Rock Valley—can become impassable, with mud thick enough to cake your tires and destroy traction. If conditions are sketchy, wait it out or turn back.

If you get stuck, Ramsay Towing (435-644-8070) is your best bet—they’re responsive and familiar with the area. AAA will not assist you off paved roads.

Camping & Pets

White Pocket is on BLM land, so dispersed camping is allowed, but there are no designated campsites, toilets, or water sources. Come prepared to be entirely self-sufficient and follow Leave No Trace principles: pack out everything you bring, including trash and waste.

Dogs are welcome at White Pocket, but keep them under control. The terrain can be rough on paws, and there's no shade or water, so bring more than enough water for both you and your pet.

What to Expect

The hike from the parking area to the formations is minimal—just a short stroll—and then you’re free to explore the incredible wave-like rocks, multicolored cliffs, and wide-open vistas.

Weather changes fast in this region. Summer heat is intense, and winter brings strong winds and frigid temps due to elevation. Flash floods are a risk year-round, especially during summer monsoon season (July–September). Even brief storms can make roads impassable in minutes.

Be courteous to local ranchers by closing cattle gates behind you, and always download maps or GPS tracks in advance—cell service is very limited to nonexistent.

Photo ops:

White Pocket is a dream location for landscape photographers and drone enthusiasts alike, offering surreal sandstone formations, dramatic textures, and vibrant colors that look almost otherworldly in the right light. For the best photos, plan to shoot during golden hour—sunrise and sunset create soft shadows and rich contrasts that highlight the swirling rock patterns. Blue hour here is especially incredible, casting a soft, moody glow across the landscape and enhancing the natural reds, purples, and creams of the rock. Midday light can be harsh, but overcast skies often bring out the deep hues of the stone. If you're flying a drone, be sure to follow FAA regulations and stay below 400 feet. White Pocket lies on BLM land, where recreational drone use is typically allowed, but always double-check for temporary restrictions or fire advisories. Launch from solid ground (not delicate rock surfaces), and be mindful of wind gusts, especially in the afternoon. Respect wildlife and other visitors by keeping drone noise and flight paths non-intrusive. With the right timing and care, you’ll come away with truly unique shots from both ground and sky.