Mick McMurray
- Jun 4
- 3 min read

White Pocket Guided Tour

Updated: Jul 11

Sunlit, and real landscape with multi colors, and a cloudy blue sky

White Pocket

Visiting White Pocket in Arizona is an awe-inspiring adventure that transports you to a surreal and otherworldly landscape. Nestled within the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, this geological wonder showcases a mesmerizing display of swirling white and red sandstone formations, reminiscent of delicate waves frozen in time. As you step foot into this remote and untouched haven, you are greeted by a breathtaking mosaic of sculpted rocks, hoodoos, and delicate formations, all adorned with vibrant hues of oranges, pinks, and creams. The undulating terrain seems to defy gravity, with contorted layers of rock providing a mesmerizing visual spectacle. As you explore this remote treasure, you can't help but feel a sense of wonder and serenity, immersed in the raw beauty of nature's artistic handiwork. White Pocket truly offers a unique and unforgettable experience for those seeking to witness the remarkable and harmonious dance between time, wind, and rock.

White Pocket

Lolli-pop formation

White Pocket: a guided tour or self-guided?

I visited White Pocket a few years ago with 3 friends. It was a 1-day trip with the morning spent in South Coyote Buttes and the afternoon until sunset at White Pocket. Looking back the 4 or 5 hours we were there was just not enough. We went with a guide from Page who was awesome. The drive was over some deep sand and 4x4 roads that required some skill. If you don't know how to drive in deep sand a guide is essential. Dreamland Tours out of Kanab has 1 day and overnight tours to White Pocket.

Lolli-pop formation

White Pocket

Getting to White Pocket

It's a 2.5-hour drive from Page to White Pocket. Departing from Page the route winds its way through the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, treating you to breathtaking views along the way. As you approach White Pocket, the scenery undergoes a remarkable transformation, revealing the unique and enchanting rock formations that define this hidden gem. The road leading to White Pocket may become narrower, adding an element of adventure to your drive.

White Pocket sandstone swirl

Pillow rock with trees and a cloudy blue sky

Pillow rock landscape

Arriving at White Pocket.

In our adventure, the short 50-minute drive from Cottonwood Cove in South Coyote Buttes to White Pocket was filled with anticipation as we had heard so much about the location. We arrived in the early afternoon, greeted by an overcast sky that added an air of mystery to the surroundings. A quick walk from the parking area led us to a realm of unimaginable beauty. Charlie, our guide pointed out some of the features of the area and we dispersed in different directions, drawn by the sheer abundance of captivating sights and experiences. He was able to point out some of the hidden gems in the area that we may have missed on our own. At every turn, a photo opportunity awaited, making it a true haven for photographers. White Pocket exceeded our expectations and proved to be a dream location, where nature's artistry and the photographer's lens united in perfect harmony. As if on cue the sun finally came out about a half hour before it set adding to the experience.

Pillow rock reaching towards the cloudy blue sky

Pillow rock landscape

Pillow rock and a pine tree with cliffs and it cloudy blue sky in the background

White Pocket landscape

Is it worth the time and effort? Absolutely!

In conclusion, when it comes to exploring White Pocket, the question of whether to choose a guided tour or go self-guided arises. Reflecting on my own experience, I must say that opting for a guided tour was the best decision we made. Our 1-day trip, which included both South Coyote Buttes and White Pocket, left us yearning for more time in this awe-inspiring place. With the guidance of an excellent local guide from Page, we were able to navigate the challenging terrain, including deep sand and 4x4 roads that demanded skillful driving. For those unfamiliar with driving in such conditions, having a guide proved to be essential. The 2.5-hour drive from Page to White Pocket rewarded us with breathtaking views as we traversed the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. Witnessing the remarkable transformation of the scenery as we approached White Pocket was nothing short of magical. Although the road leading to White Pocket may become narrower, it added an element of adventure that enhanced the overall experience. In light of all this, I can confidently say that the time and effort invested in visiting White Pocket are undoubtedly worthwhile, and choosing a knowledgeable guide can greatly enrich the journey. Whether it's your first visit or a return trip, White Pocket's unparalleled beauty and hidden treasures await, promising an unforgettable adventure for all who venture there.