The New Wave hike is a quiet gem tucked just outside of Page, Arizona. With no crowds, no permits, and no rush, this peaceful trail leads you through soft curves of stone shaped by time and wind. The path is short, but the memory lasts long. You don’t need to be an expert hiker or have special gear. All you need is a sense of wonder and a morning to spare.
When people think of Arizona, they picture the big spots—Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, or The Wave. But tucked near Glen Canyon Dam is a trail that’s easier to reach, just as beautiful, and rarely talked about. It is a chance to walk through sandstone that rolls like ocean waves, set under the bright desert sun.
There are no fences, no lines, no timed permits. Just a quiet trail leading you into open space. This is not a hike for speed. It is a walk for looking, pausing, and seeing the small things: the soft curve of a rock, the pattern in the sand, the echo of your steps.
Where the Trail Begins
The trailhead is easy to find. It’s just off Highway 89, close to Glen Canyon Dam. There’s a dirt lot where you can park for free. You’ll spot a few rock cairns—small stacks of stones—that mark where the path begins.
There’s no visitor booth or paved path. That’s what makes it feel more personal. You step off the road and into a quiet world of warm colors and soft wind.
What You’ll Notice Right Away
- Open views: No tall trees, no cliffs—just wide desert and rolling rocks all around you.
- Silence: It’s not far from town, but the sound drops away fast. You hear wind, maybe a bird, or your shoes brushing sand.
- Freedom: The trail isn’t strict. You can walk the loop, or step off it to climb a nearby formation.
This space feels untouched, like it’s been waiting without asking for attention. That quiet is part of what makes it special.
The Feel of the Land
Walking here is soft. The trail is mostly sand and smooth rock. It’s a loop that’s just over a mile long. There’s no steep climb, only small hills. The rock feels worn in a good way—easy to walk, easy to sit, easy to explore.
You’ll see layers of stone that swirl like frozen waves. Some rise tall like small towers. Others sink low like seats shaped by nature. You don’t have to imagine beauty here—it’s right in front of you.
The color changes as you move. The morning sun makes it glow gold. Later in the day, it turns orange and deep red. Even under the clouds, the rocks shine soft and smooth.
What to Pack and How to Prepare
This hike is easy, but you still need to be ready. The desert has its own rules. Here’s what to bring and why:
- Water: The air is dry even when it’s cool. One full bottle per person is a must.
- Sun protection: A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen will protect you from the strong sun.
- Good shoes: Sneakers or trail shoes with a grip are perfect. The rock can be slick in spots.
- Phone or small camera: You’ll want to capture the curves and colors around you.
- Map or GPS: There are no signs, so download a trail map or use an app with offline maps.
The trail is safe for all ages. Dogs are welcome too, as long as they’re on a leash. Just remember to carry anything you bring in.
Hidden Beauty Along the Trail
One of the best parts of this hike is that it feels like a secret. It’s not listed on big tourist guides. There are no crowds. That means you can take your time, walk slow, and really see what’s around you.
Look for:
- Wind-carved pockets: These are small holes in the rock, shaped by years of breeze and dust.
- Desert textures: From rough stone to fine sand, the ground shifts under your feet.
- Plant life: Cactus, sagebrush, and wildflowers bloom in quiet corners, even in dry months.
When the sun is low, shadows stretch across the land. The shapes change. What looked flat at noon now seems tall and deep. This is when the trail feels most like a dream.
Make It a Day
If you’re visiting a Page or Glen Canyon, this hike fits perfectly into your trip. It doesn’t take long—most people finish the loop in under an hour. That leaves time to explore nearby places or have a quiet lunch under the sun.
Nearby spots to add to your day:
- Horseshoe Bend: A short drive and an easy walk to one of the most famous views of the Colorado River.
- Glen Canyon Dam Overlook: Offers a wide view of the dam, the river, and distant cliffs.
- Hanging Gardens Trail: A short trail to a green wall of plants growing from rock.
- Lake Powell: Rent a kayak or sit by the shore to enjoy the water and views.
Or just stay on the trail. Bring a blanket and sit on a rock. Let the sun warm your back and the view fills your eyes. You don’t need a plan. You just need to be here.
Why It Stays with You
Some hikes are known for being hard. Others are known for being famous. This one is known for how it feels.
It’s not just a place you visit. It’s a place that stays with you. The quiet. The space. The soft edges. They make you slow down, breathe, and notice things. You remember not just what you saw, but how it felt to be there.
Even weeks later, you’ll remember the curve of the rocks and the way the sky looked wide and full. You’ll think of the color of the stone, the stillness of the air, and the way your steps left no trace.
The New Wave hike doesn’t shout. It whispers. And sometimes, the quiet places are the ones that speak the loudest.
A Quiet Trail, A Lasting Memory
This trail invites you to walk gently, look closely, and feel deeply. There are no loud signs or long waits. Just space, light, and time. If you find yourself near Page, Arizona, make time for this short walk. It may be the quietest part of your trip, but it might just be the part you remember most.
Unicorn Adventure brings you closer to hidden trails, soft moments, and stories worth wandering for. Let every step lead you somewhere unforgettable—with us by your side.
