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SCENIC LOCATIONPage, Arizona

The New Wave

4.7 (233 Google reviews)

A swirling Navajo‑sandstone playground just 2 miles north of Page, The New Wave delivers Wave‑like rock patterns without the lottery permit. A short, cairned loop trail lets visitors explore photogenic fins, ridges and tafoni pockets overlooking Lake Powell…

Limited Access (uneven, sandy terrain)

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Trip Snapshot

Best Time to Visit
Sunrise & sunset for soft light; March–May and Sept–Nov for mild temps
Open
Open now · Open 24 hours
Price Range
Free
Time Needed
1 hour
Parking
Free dirt lot at Beehive Campground (≈6 spaces; no RV hookups)
Reviews from Google
4.7

(233 reviews)

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Why Visit The New Wave

A swirling Navajo‑sandstone playground just 2 miles north of Page, The New Wave delivers Wave‑like rock patterns without the lottery permit. A short, cairned loop trail lets visitors explore photogenic fins, ridges and tafoni pockets overlooking Lake Powell and Glen Canyon Dam.

Highlights

Wave‑Like Sandstone – Colorful cross‑bedded Navajo sandstone similar to the famous Wave.
Easy 1‑Mile Loop – Family‑friendly hike (≈60 min) starting at Beehive Campground.
Permit‑Free & Free – Public BLM/NPS land open 24/7 with no entrance fee.

Description

Carved by wind and water in the Navajo Sandstone layer, The New Wave showcases undulating ridges, cross‑bedding and honey‑comb tafoni reminiscent of Coyote Buttes’ famous Wave—but without the strict permit cap. The looping footpath circles a low butte above Glen Canyon Dam, offering 360‑degree views toward Tower Butte, Navajo Mountain and the blue expanse of Lake Powell. Because the formation faces northeast, it glows at sunrise and remains evenly lit until mid‑afternoon, making it a favorite of photographers. The site sits on the boundary between Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and BLM land, so Leave No Trace ethics and portable toilets are required; no services are available on‑site.

History

1956
Glen Canyon Dam construction begins, creating easy road access along future US‑89.
1972
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area established, protecting surrounding sandstone.
1990s
Local photographers nickname the swirling butte “The New Wave.”
2010
Social media posts boost interest as a permit‑free alternative to The Wave.
2018
Heavy cairning added to mark the informal loop trail.
2023
NPS installs informational signage at Beehive Campground trailhead.

Features

Natural sandstone formations
1‑mile signed/cairned hiking loop
Scenic overlooks toward Lake Powell
Free dirt parking lot
Picnic tables at adjacent Beehive Campground
No restrooms, water, or shade structures

Getting There

Driving from Page: Cross Glen Canyon Dam on US‑89 N, continue 0.7 mi, turn left onto the gravel road signed “Beehive Campground.” Keep right at the fork; parking is at the northwest end of the campground.

Insider Tips

Local advice to help you make the most of your visit.

01Good to know

Carry at least 1 qt (1 L) of water per person; no potable water on‑site.

02Be prepared

Wear grippy shoes

slickrock can be sandy and steep in spots.

03Local tip

Bring a wide‑angle lens; patterns are best captured up close.

04Save time

Portable toilets are required for campers; none are provided.

05Stay connected

Summer afternoons exceed 100 °F (38 °C); start early.

06Good to know

Respect cairns and stay on rock to protect fragile soil crusts.

Want the perfect day plan?Checkout our planning guides.

View Planning Guides

Photography Opportunities

  • Best light at sunrise and sunset.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit?

No; The New Wave is on public land and is free to visit 24/7.

How long is the hike?

The loop is roughly 1 mile (1.6 km) and takes 45–60 minutes at a leisurely pace.

Is the trail suitable for children?

Yes, but keep an eye on kids near steep drop‑offs and bring sun protection.

Are dogs allowed?

Leashed pets are permitted; pack out all waste.

Can I camp overnight?

Camping is allowed only in designated sites at Beehive Campground (first‑come, first‑served).

Quick Information

Hours

OpenOpen 24 hours
  • MondayOpen 24 hours
  • TuesdayOpen 24 hours
  • WednesdayOpen 24 hours
  • ThursdayOpen 24 hours
  • FridayOpen 24 hours
  • SaturdayOpen 24 hours
  • SundayOpen 24 hours

Hours may change. Please call ahead to confirm before you visit.

Best Time to VisitSunrise & sunset for soft light; March–May and Sept–Nov for mild temps

Recommended Duration1 hour

ParkingFree dirt lot at Beehive Campground (≈6 spaces; no RV hookups)

What to BringWater, grippy shoes, wide-angle lens.
Contact Information
Unnamed Road, Page, AZ 86040, USA

Guidelines & Rules

  • Leave No Trace ethics and portable toilets are required; no services are available on-site.
You are hereGlen Canyon National Recreation Area, Page, Arizona

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