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  • Writer's pictureMick McMurray

"Arizona's South Coyote Buttes"

Updated: 4 days ago


Sunrise from the South Coyote Buttes with orange and purple clouds above a red Desert
Sunrise from the South Coyote Buttes

Arizona is a state filled with natural wonders, and one of the most stunning places to visit is South Coyote Buttes. Located in the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, South Coyote Buttes is a series of sandstone formations that are simply breathtaking. If you are looking for a unique and awe-inspiring destination, then South Coyote Buttes should definitely be on your list. Getting to South Coyote Buttes requires a bit of planning, as access is limited to protect the fragile ecosystem. South Coyote Buttes require a permit from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).

South Coyote Buttes Teepees all in a row, with orange and yellow, stripes, and a moody sky
South Coyote Buttes Teepees

South Coyote Buttes Landscape with orange and yellow sandstone and desert shrubs cloudy Moody sky
South Coyote Buttes Landscape


Vertical photo of the sculpted sandstone with desert shrubs, and a cloudy sky
South Coyote Buttes Landscape

We visited South Coyote Buttes with a guide who took us down House Rock Rd. from Paria. When we arrived at South Coyote Buttes, you will be struck by the incredible beauty of the landscape. The sandstone formations are a kaleidoscope of colors, with hues of red, orange, yellow, and white. The terrain is rugged and rocky, with steep cliffs and deep canyons. We started exploring the area from the Cottonwood Teepee Trailhead.


South Coyote Buttes Close-up Orange sculpted sandstone
South Coyote Buttes Close-up

South Coyote Buttes Close-up oh, sculpted sandstone with snow
South Coyote Buttes Close-up

South Coyote Buttes Close-up of sculpted, sandstone and desert shrubs
South Coyote Buttes Close-up

Photographing South Coyote Buttes


Exploring the Coyote Buttes is an adventure in itself. The terrain can be challenging, with steep inclines and rocky terrain. If you are interested in photography, the Coyote Buttes offer some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world. The ever-changing light and shadows create a constantly evolving canvas of colors and textures. There were no trails to speak of but as we wandered around the area the photo opportunities were endless. The light wasn't the greatest with an overcast sky but with some interesting compositions we were happy.


South Coyote Buttes Teepees in a row with the desert shrubs, and a cloudy sky
South Coyote Buttes Teepees


South Coyote Buttes Landscape of the orange sculpted sandstone with the desert shrubs
South Coyote Buttes Landscape

We arrived to a beautiful sunrise but the rest of the morning was a gray, overcast day however the unique geological features made for incredible photo opportunities, and the challenge of capturing the perfect shot kept us engaged for hours.

South Coyote Buttes Landscape with yellow gold sculpted sandstone a cloudy sky
South Coyote Buttes Landscape

In conclusion, visiting the Coyote Buttes is a truly unique and unforgettable experience. From the stunning sandstone formations to the unique geological features, this destination is a must-see for any nature lover. Just be sure to plan ahead and secure your permit, and be prepared for a rugged and rewarding adventure in one of the most beautiful places in the world.


Do you want more photography adventures in Northern AZ?

Explore Paria Rimrocks Toadstool Hoodoos

Lower Antelope Canyon: A Natural Wonder in Arizona

Off the Beaten Path: Discovering an Abandoned Corral

Off the Beaten Path: Exploring the Stunning Hoo-Doos of Stud-Horse Point

Discovering the Wonders of Rainbow Bridge: A Perfect Day on the Water

Exploring the Majestic Wave of North Coyote Buttes

The Upper Antelope Canyon: A Photographic Tour of Nature's Art


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