Is Vermillion Cliffs worth visiting without a 4X4?

Question

So I understand that certain areas in Vermillion Cliffs require a 4X4. We will be visiting in mid-May. My question is - are the areas that are accessible for all vehicle types still worth visiting? Or are the main attraction points only accessible via 4X4?

Answer

Vermillion Cliffs National Monument is a stunning area in northern Arizona, famous for its colorful cliffs, canyons, and unique rock formations. While much of the more famous areas—like Coyote Buttes North (home of The Wave)—require a permit and a high-clearance 4X4 or guided hike, there are several areas accessible to standard vehicles that are still worth visiting.

For visitors without a 4X4, the following options are feasible and scenic:

Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness (accessible trailheads): Some trailheads along Highway 89A and Highway 89 are reachable with a regular vehicle. For example, the White House trailhead near the Paria Plateau is accessible by standard cars for short walks or day hikes.
Lee’s Ferry and Marble Canyon: Located a bit north, these areas provide excellent viewpoints, river access, and photo opportunities without requiring a 4X4. The geology and Colorado River views are impressive.
Vermilion Cliffs overlook points: There are pullouts along Highway 89A between Page and Jacob Lake where you can stop for panoramic views of the cliffs. These are fully accessible by regular vehicles and offer fantastic photo ops, especially around sunrise or sunset.
Petroglyph sites and historic points: Some sites near Highway 89A and the Colorado River, such as Navajo Bridge or Paria Viewpoints, are accessible without off-road driving and provide both scenic and cultural interest.

However, the iconic Wave, Buckskin Gulch, and some of the more remote slot canyons are mostly off-limits to standard vehicles without guided tours or long hikes starting from accessible points. If your goal is to see the signature patterns and tight slot canyons up close, a 4X4 or a guided tour is necessary.

In summary, while not all the “main” attractions are accessible without a 4X4, there are still several worthwhile viewpoints, short hikes, and scenic stops that provide a strong sense of the Vermillion Cliffs’ beauty. You can enjoy dramatic desert landscapes, colorful cliffs, and unique geological formations without needing specialized vehicles—just plan your route carefully and focus on accessible trailheads and overlooks.