
White Pocket will take your breath away!
Worth the trek to get there!
Jim Bradbury
Tucked away in the remote reaches of northern Arizona, inside the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, lies a place so surreal it feels like you’ve stepped onto another planet: White Pocket.
Far less crowded than its famous neighbor, The Wave, White Pocket is one of the Southwest’s most jaw-dropping hidden gems—and it’s absolutely worth the day trip. If you’re looking for swirling rock formations, otherworldly textures, and a sense of total wonder, this is the spot.
Getting There: The Journey Is Part of the Adventure
Reaching White Pocket is no small feat. The drive from Kanab or Page takes 2–3 hours, with the last 10 miles on deep sand roads that require a high-clearance 4WD vehicle (and ideally some off-roading experience). If that’s not your thing, plenty of local guides offer tours—and it’s well worth letting a pro handle the terrain so you can just enjoy the ride.
The remoteness adds to the experience. You won’t find crowds, gift shops, or cell service. What you will find is total silence, endless sky, and the feeling that you’ve arrived somewhere truly special.
The Landscape: Nature’s Abstract Art Gallery
Once you step out onto the White Pocket formation, your jaw will drop.
Imagine massive waves of rock frozen in time—reds, whites, oranges, and yellows swirling together like marble. The surface ripples like it was poured and sculpted by a giant artist with an eye for abstract design. There are brain-like domes, checkerboard patterns, and sweeping ridges that invite exploration in every direction.
And best of all? You don’t need a permit like The Wave. You can wander freely, climb gently over formations, and take in the view at your own pace.
Photographer’s Paradise, Explorer’s Playground
For photographers, White Pocket is a dream. The light changes everything—early morning and late afternoon bring out wild contrasts in the stone, while midday offers stark shadows and bold colors. You could spend hours (or days) trying to capture the perfect shot and still never get the same image twice.
But it’s not just for photographers. Hikers, geology buffs, and curious travelers will find endless nooks and features to explore. There’s no official trail—just follow your curiosity.
Why It’s Worth the Trip
Uniqueness: You’ll see rock formations here that don’t exist anywhere else on Earth.
Solitude: Unlike more popular destinations, you might have the place nearly to yourself.
Adventure: Getting there is half the fun—especially with a guide who knows the history and terrain.
Unforgettable views: Every direction offers a different, mesmerizing scene.
Tips for Visiting White Pocket
Use a local guide if you don’t have 4WD experience—the sand roads are no joke.
Pack water, snacks, sun protection, and layers. There are no facilities.
Bring a camera—you’ll regret it if you don’t.
Leave no trace. Help keep this magical place pristine for future visitors.
Final Thoughts
White Pocket is the kind of place that doesn’t just impress you—it wows you. It's remote, rugged, and wildly beautiful. Whether you're chasing the perfect photo, looking for solitude, or just craving a day of adventure, this corner of the Vermilion Cliffs delivers.
So if you’ve got a day to spare in northern Arizona or southern Utah, add White Pocket to your list. It may be off the beaten path—but it’s exactly where you want to be.





