The best walks and hikes in Ah-Shi-Sle-Pah Wilderness

No, the area is a true wilderness without any designated or marked trails. Hiking here is an exercise in exploration and self-navigation across open badlands. You must be prepared with a reliable GPS device or a map and compass to find your way.

Access is via remote, unpaved county roads. A high-clearance vehicle is strongly recommended. These roads can become muddy and impassable after rain, so it is critical to check the weather forecast before your trip. Plan for a slow drive and use GPS for navigation.

The terrain consists of rolling, water-carved clay hills and sandy washes, characteristic of a badlands environment. Expect uneven ground and open, exposed landscapes with very little shade. Sturdy hiking boots are essential for navigating the varied surfaces.

The wilderness is famous for its otherworldly hoodoos. Some of the most sought-after formations include the 'Alien Throne,' 'King of Wings,' and the 'Valley of Dreams.' These unique geological structures are highlights for photographers and hikers alike.

No permits are currently required for day hiking or dispersed camping in the Ah-Shi-Sle-Pah Wilderness Study Area. However, it's always a good practice to check the official Bureau of Land Management (BLM) website for the latest regulations before you visit.

You must be self-sufficient. There are no facilities, water, or cell service. Essential items include: several liters of water per person, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), sturdy hiking boots, a first-aid kit, and a reliable navigation tool like a GPS unit. It's also wise to bring extra food and layers of clothing.

Both areas offer stunning badlands scenery, but Ah-Shi-Sle-Pah is generally considered more remote and less visited than Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness. This often means a greater sense of solitude. While Bisti has more concentrated and famous hoodoo fields, Ah-Shi-Sle-Pah provides a vast, open landscape for true off-trail exploration.

Yes, the area is rich with paleontological resources, including large deposits of petrified wood and dinosaur fossils from the late Cretaceous Period. Remember that these are protected. It is illegal to collect or disturb any fossils or petrified wood. Please look and photograph, but leave them in place for others to appreciate.

While most routes are relatively short, you can undertake a longer trek by exploring the area around Chaco Culture National Historical Park. The Kin Kletso – Penasco Blanco loop from Pueblo Bonito Great House is a moderate 7.7-mile (12.5 km) hike that offers a more extended experience through the region's significant historical landscapes.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Reviewers often praise the incredible sense of solitude and the freedom to explore a surreal, otherworldly landscape. The unique hoodoo formations and the adventure of navigating off-trail are frequently mentioned as major highlights.

Spring and fall offer the most pleasant conditions for hiking, with moderate temperatures and a lower chance of extreme weather. Summer can be dangerously hot, while winter can bring cold temperatures and snow. Always avoid the area during and after heavy rain, as the roads become impassable.