Utah National Parks FULL Permit breakdown. Every deadline to know before your trip.
- Blackthorn customs
- Jan 13
- 20 min read
Tired of digging around the National Park Websites trying to make sense of their permit system and their deadlines? Don't worry, we are here to make life easier with a full break down off all the permits and their deadlines in one place.
Let us know what we missed so we can update this list and continue to help others. This list is VERY long. I would strongly recommend using the links in the drop downs below to look through the national parks or activities you're interested in.
Skip to the National Park or section in a National Park you're interested in with the links below. The link you click will have the linked area at the bottom of your page.
Bryce Canyon
This list does NOT include campgrounds. While this is a guide, you need to go the the NPS website to double check for yourself. Rules and regulations can change without our knowledge or update. The links provided are there to help you find the right places to look and double check. PLEASE BE SAFE AND FOLLOW ALL NPS RULES AND REGULATIONS! BLACKTHORN WILL NOT BE HELD LIABLE FOR YOU NOT FOLLOWING ALL NPS RULES AND REGULATIONS AND THE RESULTING CONSEQUENCES.
Arches National Park
1. Timed Entry System (April 1 - October 31)
Overview:
Timed Entry Tickets are required from April 1 to July 6 and August 28 to October 31, 2025, in addition to the park entrance fee.
Tickets are not required during the winter months (November 1 to March 31).
Reservation System:
Advance Reservations: Released monthly, three months in advance, on Recreation.gov.
Next-Day Reservations: Limited tickets released at 6 PM the day before entry.
Ticket Requirement: A timed entry ticket is valid for a single-day entry during a one-hour arrival window.
Costs:
Timed Entry Ticket: $2 per vehicle (non-refundable).
Park Entrance Fee:
Private Vehicle: $30 (valid for 7 days).
Motorcycle: $25.
Per Person: $15 (bicyclists, hikers, pedestrians).
Youth 15 and under: Free.
Additional Notes:
Park Pass Holders: If you already have a park pass (e.g., Interagency Annual Pass), you only need to pay the $2 reservation fee.
Purchase Locations:
Online at Recreation.gov.
In person at the park entrance station.
Details & Reservations:
2. Fiery Furnace Permits (Year-Round)
Overview:
The Fiery Furnace is a challenging labyrinth of sandstone walls that requires agility, navigation skills, and preparation.
Visitors can explore via a Self-Guided Exploration Permit or join a Ranger-Guided Hike.
Reservation System:
Self-Guided Permits:
Must be reserved online via Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Reservations open 7 days in advance and must be made at least 2 days prior to the visit.
Permits are valid for a specific date and are for day-use only (sunrise to sunset).
All group members must watch a required orientation video and attend a talk at the Arches Visitor Center.
Ranger-Guided Hikes:
Offered seasonally (spring through fall).
Reservations are required and can also be made online at Recreation.gov.
Costs:
Self-Guided Permit: $10 per person.
Ranger-Guided Hike: $16 per person.
Additional Notes:
Group Size Limit: Maximum of 6 people per group.
Restrictions: Children under 5 and pets are prohibited. Commercial groups are not allowed.
Permits frequently sell out quickly during busy seasons.
Details & Reservations:
3. Backcountry Camping Permits (Year-Round)
Overview:
Backpacking in Arches National Park is limited to four designated backcountry campsites to minimize environmental impact.
The park’s backcountry features rugged terrain, limited water sources, and challenging navigation conditions, making preparation essential.
Reservation System:
Permits are available in person only at the Backcountry Permit Office in Moab, Utah.
Reservations can be made up to 7 days before the trip start date.
Each permit is valid for up to 3 nights per campsite, with a total limit of 7 nights across multiple sites.
Costs:
Permit Fee: $7 per person.
Payment must be made at the time of reservation.
Additional Notes:
Campsites:
Courthouse Wash: 3 sites (2 upper, 1 lower).
Devils Garden: 1 site off the Primitive Trail.
Group Size Limit: Maximum of 7 people per group.
Regulations:
No wood fires.
Human waste must be packed out using commercial toilet bags.
Food must be stored securely to prevent wildlife access.
Details & Reservations:
4. Climbing Permits (Year-Round)
Overview:
Arches National Park offers challenging climbing opportunities on sandstone formations, requiring advanced techniques.
Permits are recommended to ensure climber safety and compliance with park regulations. THERE ARE MANY REGULATIONS. Use the link to go see all regulations.
Reservation System:
Registration Options:
Online at Arches Permits.
Self-register at the kiosk outside the Visitor Center.
Special Use Permits: Required for establishing new routes involving fixed gear installations.
Costs:
Permit Fee: Free for individual climbing registration.
Special Use Permits for New Routes: Costs vary based on application specifics.
Additional Notes:
Group Size Limit: Maximum of 5 climbers per group.
Regulations:
Use only rock-colored chalk.
No motorized drills in wilderness areas.
Fixed gear installation requires approval.
Closures: Certain routes may close seasonally for wildlife protection.
Details & Reservations:
5. Canyoneering Permits (Year-Round)
Overview:
Canyoneering in Arches involves technical descents, rappels, and navigating sandstone canyons, requiring skill and preparation.
A permit is required for all canyoneering routes.
Reservation System:
Self-Register Kiosk: Free permits available at the kiosk outside the Visitor Center.
Online Permits: Available via Recreation.gov starting at 8:00 AM MST the day before the trip, with a $6 fee.
In-Person Permits: Obtain at the Backcountry Permit Office (Moab, UT), Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, free of charge.
Costs:
Online Permit Fee: $6 per permit (non-refundable).
In-Person Permits: Free.
Additional Notes:
Group Size Limits:
Fiery Furnace or Lost Spring Canyon: Maximum of 6 people.
Other canyoneering routes: Maximum of 10 people.
Prohibited Activities:
Rappelling from named or unnamed arches with openings over 3 feet.
Motorized drills and slacklining in wilderness areas.
Safety Precautions:
Inspect all fixed gear.
Be prepared for weather extremes, limited water, and potential self-rescue.
Details & Reservations:
Zion National Park
1. Angels Landing Permits (Year-Round)
Overview:
A permit is required to hike Angels Landing past Scout Lookout, ensuring trail safety and limiting congestion.
Permits are managed through a Seasonal Lottery and a Day-Before Lottery.
Reservation System:
Seasonal Lottery:
Apply in advance for hikes during specific date ranges.
Applicants can select up to 7 ranked days and times.
Results are announced on specific dates, and permits are emailed.
Costs:
$6 non-refundable application fee (covers up to 6 people).
$3 per person if selected (refundable for cancellations made 2 days before the hike).
2025 Lottery Dates:
December 1, 2024 – February 28, 2025: Apply October 1-20, results announced October 25.
March 1 – May 31, 2025: Apply January 1-20, results announced January 25.
June 1 – August 31, 2025: Apply April 1-20, results announced April 25.
September 1 – November 30, 2025: Apply July 1-20, results announced July 25.
Day-Before Lottery:
Apply between 12:01 AM and 3 PM (MT) the day before the hike.
Results are announced by 4 PM (MT).
Costs:
$6 non-refundable application fee.
$3 per person if selected (non-refundable).
Costs:
Application Fee: $6 (non-refundable).
Permit Fee (if selected): $3 per person.
Additional Notes:
Permits:
Must be printed or downloaded before arrival as cell service is unreliable at the trailhead.
Rangers may request permits at any point on the trail.
Refunds:
Seasonal Lottery permits can be canceled for a refund of the $3 per person fee (if canceled at least 2 days prior).
Day-Before Lottery permits are non-refundable.
Details & Reservations:
2. The Subway Permits (Year-Round)
Overview:
The Subway is a highly sought-after day-use area requiring a Wilderness Permit for all visitors.
It offers two routes:
Bottom-Up Hiking Route: A strenuous 9-mile round trip that requires scrambling and route finding.
Top-Down Canyoneering Route: A 9.5-mile technical route requiring rappelling, swimming, and advanced navigation.
Reservation System:
Seasonal Lottery:
Applications are accepted 4 months in advance during the lottery window.
Applicants can choose up to 4 prioritized dates, and results are emailed on the 27th day of the lottery month.
Unclaimed spots become available for reservation on the 15th day of the following month.
Lottery Application Windows:
January–March trips: Apply November 1–25.
April–June trips: Apply February 1–25.
July–September trips: Apply May 1–25.
October–December trips: Apply August 1–25.
Daily Lottery:
Apply 2 days before the hike date between 12:00 AM and 3:00 PM (MT).
Results are announced by 4:00 PM (MT).
Walk-in Permits:
Any remaining spots from lotteries can be obtained in person the day before or day of the hike at the Zion Wilderness Desk.
Costs:
Lottery Application Fee: $6 per application (non-refundable).
Permit Fee: $10 per person (refundable if canceled at least 2 days before the trip).
Additional Notes:
Group Size Limits:
Subway: Maximum 12 people.
Das Boot and Russell Gulch: Maximum 6 people.
Regulations:
Overnight camping is prohibited.
Permits must be picked up in person at the Zion Visitor Center by the reservation holder.
Safety Precautions:
Extensive route finding is required for both routes.
Plan for cold, debris-filled water, and challenging conditions.
Details & Reservations:
3. Narrows Overnight Permits (Year-Round)
Overview:
The Narrows offers two primary hiking options:
Bottom-Up Hike: A non-permitted, out-and-back hike starting from the Temple of Sinawava up to Big Spring.
16-Mile Through-Hike: Requires a Wilderness Permit for either a single-day or overnight trek from Chamberlain's Ranch to the Temple of Sinawava.
Reservation System:
Single-Day Through-Hike Permits:
Advanced reservations can be made up to three months in advance on Recreation.gov.
A Daily Lottery is available for last-minute permits. Applications can be submitted two days before the desired hike date (12:00 AM to 3:00 PM MT). Results are announced by 4:00 PM.
Overnight Backpacking Permits:
Reservations for campsites open three months in advance and can also be obtained on a first-come, first-served basis at the Zion Visitor Center.
Walk-In Permits:
Available for remaining spots the day before or day of the hike at the Zion Wilderness Desk.
Costs:
Single-Day Permit:
Application/Reservation Fee: $6 per group (non-refundable).
Per Person Fee: $10 per person (refundable if canceled 2 days in advance).
Overnight Permit:
Reservation Fee: $20 per group (non-refundable).
Per Person Fee: $7 per person per night (refundable if canceled 2 days in advance).
Additional Notes:
Group Size Limit: Maximum of 12 people.
Regulations: Permits must be picked up in person at the Zion Visitor Center by the reservation holder.
Safety Precautions: Water flow above 150 CFS closes the hike. Flash flood risks must be checked before starting. Proper footwear, walking sticks, and gear for water conditions are recommended.
Details & Reservations:
4. Canyoneering Permits (Year-Round)
Overview:
Canyoneering in Zion involves descending into technical slot canyons requiring ropes, climbing gear, and navigation skills. A Wilderness Permit is required for all technical canyoneering trips and single-day through-hikes of the Virgin River Narrows or Left Fork (Subway).
Reservation System:
Seasonal Lottery:
Held for Left Fork (Subway) and Mystery Canyon trips.
Apply during specific windows two months before each three-month hiking season.
Applicants can rank up to 4 preferred dates.
Unclaimed reservations become available for general booking after the lottery closes.
Advanced Reservations:
Available for most canyons, excluding Left Fork (Subway) and Mystery Canyon.
Reservations open up to 3 months in advance.
If space remains, reservations can be made until 5:00 PM MT the day before your trip.
Daily Lottery:
Last-minute option for all technical canyons, including Left Fork (Subway) and Mystery Canyon.
Apply two days before the hike between 12:00 AM and 3:00 PM MT.
Results are announced at 4:00 PM MT.
Walk-In Permits:
Any remaining permits are available in person at the Zion Wilderness Desk.
Costs:
Lottery Application/Reservation Fee: $6 per application (non-refundable).
Per Person Fee: $10 per person (refundable if canceled at least 2 days in advance).
Additional Notes:
Group Size Limit: Maximum of 12 people per group.
Regulations: Permits are non-transferable and must be obtained in person by the reservation holder.
Safety Precautions: Plan ahead, prepare for weather and flash flood risks, and ensure proper training and equipment for technical descents.
Details & Reservations:
5. Backpacking (Year-Round)
Overview:
The Zion Wilderness offers over 90 miles of trails, designated campsites, and unique opportunities for solitude and adventure. Wilderness permits are required for all overnight backpacking trips, ensuring the protection of the park's natural resources and visitor safety.
Reservation System:
Advanced Reservations:
Half of the campsites are available through an online calendar system on Recreation.gov.
Reservations open at 10:00 AM MT three months in advance (e.g., reservations for January open on December 5).
Multi-night trips are allowed, except for areas like the Narrows, which only allow single-night trips.
If sites remain available, reservations can be made until 5:00 PM MT the day before the trip.
First-Come, First-Served Permits:
The other half of the campsites are available for walk-in permits, issued in person at the Zion Wilderness Desk at the Visitor Center.
Permits are available the day before or the day of the trip.
Costs:
Permit Fee: $20 per permit (non-refundable).
Per Person Fee: $7 per person, per night (refundable if canceled at least 2 days before the trip).
Additional Notes:
Group Size Limit: Maximum of 12 people per group.
Required Information: Vehicle make, model, and license plate must be provided during permit issuance.
Regulations: Permits must be obtained in person by the reservation holder.
Safety Precautions: Always have a backup plan, as trail closures due to rockfalls, wildfires, or flash floods may occur.
Details & Reservations:
6. River Trips
Overview:
The Virgin River offers opportunities for adventurous river trips, requiring a Wilderness Permit for all watercraft use. These permits help protect the river’s ecosystem and ensure visitor safety. Permits are available for floating below the Temple of Sinawava when the river flow is at least 150 cubic feet per second (CFS). Kayaking through The Narrows is recommended only for expert paddlers with Class V Whitewater skills.
Reservation System:
Day-of Permits:
Free permits can be obtained at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center for trips below the Temple of Sinawava.
Permits for kayaking The Narrows must be obtained the day before the trip.
Requirements for The Narrows:
Permits are issued only if the river flow has been above 150 CFS for 24 consecutive hours.
Group size is limited to 6 people.
Costs:
Permits are free for all river trips.
Additional Notes:
Safety Gear:
All watercraft must be designed for whitewater use.
Personal flotation devices (PFDs) are required for all participants.
Restrictions:
Inner tubes are prohibited.
Kayak trips through The Narrows require preparation for multi-day survival without assistance.
Flow Monitoring:
River conditions and flow rates can be checked through the US Geological Survey.
Details & Reservations:
7. Rock Climbing and Bouldering
Overview:
Zion National Park is renowned for its 2,000-foot sandstone cliffs, making it a world-class destination for big wall climbing. The park's routes are primarily suited for experienced climbers due to the soft nature of the rock, sparse protection, and challenging conditions. Climbing is most favorable from March to May and September to early November.
Reservation System:
Overnight Climbing Permits: Required for all overnight climbs and bivouacs.
Permits can be reserved online via Recreation.gov.
Reservations open up to three months in advance.
Day Climbs: Do not require permits.
Seasonal Closures: Climbing routes are closed annually starting March 1 to protect nesting raptors. Always check the Seasonal Closures List before planning your climb.
Costs:
Overnight Climbing Permit Fee:
$20 per permit (non-refundable), plus $7 per person per night (refundable).
Additional Notes:
Climbing Restrictions:
Avoid climbing when sandstone is wet, as it weakens the rock and poses safety risks.
The use of motorized drills and bolting new routes without authorization is prohibited.
Safety Precautions: Climbers should bring appropriate protection and follow Leave No Trace principles. Route information is available at the Zion Wilderness Desk.
Details & Reservations:
Bryce Canyon National Park
1. Backcountry Permits (Year-Round)
Overview:
Backcountry camping in Bryce Canyon is a remote experience offering solitude along forested trails. Camping is permitted only at designated campsites along two main trails:
Under-the-Rim Trail: 22.9 miles (36.9 km) from Bryce Point to Rainbow Point, with 7 campsites.
Riggs Spring Loop Trail: 8.6 miles (13.9 km) with 3 campsites and 1 group site.
Both trails are strenuous, with elevation changes ranging from 6,800 to 9,115 feet (2,073 to 2,778 meters).
Reservation System:
Peak Season Permits (March–November):
Reservations are available online at Recreation.gov up to three months in advance.
Walk-in permits are not available during the peak season.
Winter Permits (December–February):
Issued on a walk-in basis at the Visitor Center up to 48 hours in advance.
Permit Pick-Up:
Reserved permits must be picked up at the Visitor Center by 2:00 PM MT on the day of the trip or the reservation is canceled.
Costs:
Permit Fee: $10 per permit.
Per Person Fee: $5 per person.
Additional Notes:
Regulations:
Camping is only permitted at designated sites, and campers must use established tent pads.
Bear canisters are required and available at the Visitor Center for free rental.
Fires are prohibited; only gas stoves are allowed.
Groups are limited to 6 people per regular site or 15 people at group sites.
Water Availability:
Backcountry water sources are unreliable and must be purified. Check water availability at the Visitor Center before your trip.
Details & Reservations:
Canyonlands National Park
1. Overnight Backcountry Permits (Year-Round)
Overview:
A permit is required for all overnight backcountry activities, including backpacking, four-wheel drive trips, and mountain biking. Visitors can stay in designated campsites or at-large zones depending on the district. Stays are limited to a maximum of 14 consecutive nights, with site-specific limits (e.g., 3 nights at designated vehicle campsites).
Reservation System:
Advanced Reservations:
Permits open four months in advance on a seasonal basis through Recreation.gov.
Seasonal openings occur at 8 AM MT on the 10th of November, February, May, and August.
Campsites not reserved in advance become available for walk-up permits.
Walk-Up Permits:
Issued in person at visitor centers until 2:30 PM daily for any unreserved campsites.
Walk-up availability is displayed as "W" on Recreation.gov two days before the trip.
Costs:
Reservation Fee: $36 per permit (includes a $6 Recreation.gov fee, non-refundable).
Per Person Fee: $5 per person, per night (refundable if canceled at least 3 days before the trip).
Additional Notes:
Group Size Limits:
Backpacking: Maximum of 7 people.
Four-Wheel Drive/Mountain Biking: Varies by district (up to 15 people and 3 vehicles).
Regulations: Permits do not cover park entrance fees. Visitors must pay separately for park entry.
Cancellations: The $36 reservation fee is non-refundable, but per person fees are refunded for cancellations made 3+ days in advance.
Details & Reservations:
2. Backpacking Regulations for The Needles, Island in the Sky and The Maze
Overview:
Backcountry travel in Canyonlands is regulated to preserve the park’s natural resources and ensure visitor safety. A permit is required for all overnight trips, including hiking, biking, and vehicle-based camping, as well as for day-use access on designated roads.
Key Regulations:
Permits: Required for all overnight and day-use activities in designated backcountry zones or roads.
Campsites: Camping is only allowed at designated sites or in approved at-large zones, at least one mile from roads and low-impact areas.
Food Storage: Food and scented items must be stored securely to prevent wildlife access.
Human Waste: A portable toilet system or approved human waste bags are required for all backcountry users.
Campfires: Prohibited; only gas stoves are allowed.
Vehicle Restrictions: Only high-clearance, 4WD vehicles are allowed on many roads; ATVs and OHVs are prohibited.
Environmental Protection: Swimming and bathing are only permitted in the Green and Colorado Rivers. Campers must stay 300 feet away from archaeological sites and water sources.
Seasonal Closures:
Certain areas, like Salt Creek and Big Spring, are closed during specific times for wildlife protection. Other restrictions may apply to protect bald eagles and raptors.
Additional Notes:
Groups are limited to 7–12 people, depending on the activity.
Generators and loud audio devices are not permitted.
Caching food or supplies requires prior approval from the district ranger.
Details:
3. Day-Use Permits for White Rim, Elephant Hill, Lavender Canyon, and Peekaboo/Horse Canyon Roads
Overview:
Day-use permits are required for vehicles, motorcycles, and bicycles on specific backcountry roads to protect resources and manage visitor access. These permits apply to White Rim Road, Elephant Hill Road, Lavender Canyon Road, and Peekaboo/Horse Canyon.
Reservation System:
Online Permits: Available starting at 8:00 AM MT the day before your trip through Recreation.gov.
Print or download a digital copy of the permit to carry with you during the trip.
In-Person Permits: Available for any unreserved spots at visitor centers on the day of the trip until one hour before closing.
Permit Limits:
White Rim Road: 50 vehicles and 50 mountain bikes daily.
Elephant Hill Road: 24 vehicles and 12 mountain bikes daily.
Costs:
Online Reservation Fee: $6 per permit (non-refundable).
In-Person Permits: Free.
Note: Permits do not cover park entrance fees, which must be paid separately.
Additional Notes:
Group Size Limits:
White Rim Road: Maximum of 3 vehicles and 15 bicycles per group.
Elephant Hill Road: Maximum of 3 vehicles and 12 bicycles per group.
Groups must stagger start times by 30 minutes to reduce congestion.
Caché Supplies: Allowed with prior approval from the district ranger.
Vehicle Restrictions: ATVs, UTVs, and OHVs are prohibited; motorbikes must be street-legal.
Details & Reservations:
4. White Rim Road
Overview:
The White Rim Road is a 100-mile loop in the Island in the Sky district, offering spectacular views and challenging conditions for four-wheel-drive vehicles, motorbikes, and mountain bikes. Permits are required for all day-use and overnight trips.
Reservation System:
Day-Use Permits:
Available online at Recreation.gov starting at 8:00 AM MT the day before the trip.
Permits must be printed or downloaded as cellular service is limited.
Day-use permits are limited to 50 vehicles and 50 bikes per day.
Overnight Permits:
Required for camping at designated sites.
Reservations open four months in advance and are managed through Recreation.gov.
Popular during spring and fall, advanced booking is recommended.
Costs:
Day-Use Permits: $6 reservation fee per permit (non-refundable).
Overnight Permits: $36 per group, including up to 15 people and 3 vehicles.
Additional Notes:
Group Size Limits: Up to 15 people and 3 vehicles per group. Motorbikes and trailers count as vehicles.
Campsites: There are 20 campsites in 10 designated areas. Campsites must be reserved in advance.
Vehicle Requirements: Only high-clearance, low-range, four-wheel-drive vehicles are allowed.
Restrictions:
Fires are prohibited.
Pets are not allowed, even inside vehicles.
ATVs, UTVs, and OHVs are prohibited.
Details & Reservations:
5. River Permits
Overview:
River permits are required for all trips on the Green and Colorado Rivers within the park. Permits are available for both flatwater and whitewater sections, allowing overnight or day-use access. Group size is limited to 40 people, and trips can last up to 14 consecutive nights.
Reservation System:
Advanced Reservations:
Permits for overnight trips can be booked on Recreation.gov starting four months in advance.
Reservation periods open on:
December 14 for trips from April 14 – October 15.
June 15 for trips from October 16 – April 13.
Reservations close two days before the launch date.
Day-Use Permits:
Available up to 24 hours in advance online or at park headquarters in person.
Costs:
Flatwater (Stillwater or Meander Canyon):
$36 reservation fee (includes $6 Recreation.gov fee).
$25 per person for overnight trips.
$6 for day-use permits if reserved online; free in person.
Cataract Canyon (Whitewater):
$36 reservation fee (includes $6 Recreation.gov fee).
$25 per person for overnight trips.
$10 per person for day-use permits.
Example: A 5-person overnight trip in Cataract Canyon costs $161 ($36 reservation + $125 for 5 people).
Additional Notes:
Cancellation Policy: The $36 reservation fee is non-refundable, but per-person fees are refundable if canceled at least two days before the trip.
Caching Supplies: Supplies can only be cached with written approval from the district ranger.
Regulations: All river users must follow strict river regulations, including Leave No Trace principles. Details are available on the River Regulations Page.
Details & Reservations:
6. Horseback Riding
Overview:
Horseback riding and pack trips offer a unique way to explore Canyonlands' rugged backcountry. Reliable water sources and varying road conditions make planning essential. Pack and saddle stock include horses, burros, and mules. Cross-country travel is prohibited, and a Backcountry Permit is required for all pack and saddle stock use.
Reservation System:
Day Use Permits:
Free and unlimited in most areas, except for Horse/Salt Creek and Lavender Canyons in the Needles district (limited to 7 animals per day).
Day use permits can be obtained at district visitor centers up to 24 hours in advance.
Overnight Use Permits:
Available for trips to designated vehicle camps via Recreation.gov.
Reservations must include the number of pack animals in the comments section.
Costs:
Day Use Permits: Free.
Overnight Permits: $36 per group, non-refundable.
Additional Notes:
Group Size Limits:
Needles and Island in the Sky districts: 7 people and 7 animals.
Maze and Orange Cliffs districts: 5 people and 5 animals.
No overnight use is allowed in Horseshoe Canyon.
Feed Regulations:
Animals must be fed pelletized feed 48 hours before and during the trip to prevent spreading invasive plants.
Park vegetation cannot be consumed.
Staking Rules:
Animals must be staked at least 300 feet from water sources, 100 feet from camp, and away from vegetation.
Details & Reservations:
Capitol Reef National Park
1. Backcountry Camping Permits (Year-Round)
Overview:
Capitol Reef offers marked hiking routes leading to remote areas, narrow slot canyons, and scenic viewpoints. A free backcountry permit is required for all overnight camping outside of established campgrounds, ensuring resource protection and visitor safety.
Reservation System:
Backcountry Permits:
Free and available in person at the Visitor Center during business hours.
Permits must be obtained prior to starting your trip.
Costs:
Permit Fee: Free.
Additional Notes:
Group Size Limits: Maximum of 12 people per group. Groups larger than 12 must split into separate parties and use different areas or trails.
Camping Restrictions:
Campsites must be at least 0.5 miles from roads and trailheads.
Stay at least 300 feet away from water sources, trail junctions, and archaeological or historic sites.
Camping is limited to 3 nights in the same location, 14 days per trip, and 30 days annually.
Leave No Trace:
Human waste must be buried 6 inches deep and 300 feet away from water sources.
Pack out all trash, including toilet paper and food scraps.
Water and Fires:
Purify all water before drinking.
Fires are prohibited; only gas stoves are allowed.
Popular Routes:
Lower Muley Twist Canyon: Can be done as a long day hike or an overnight trip.
Upper Muley Twist Canyon: Features colorful canyons and scenic views, available as a day or overnight hike.
Halls Creek Narrows: A strenuous 22-mile round-trip best suited for a 3-4 day backpacking trip.
Details:
2. Rock Climbing and Bouldering Permits (Year-Round)
Overview:
Capitol Reef offers technical climbing and bouldering on sandstone formations, with strict regulations to preserve the park’s fragile environment. A day-use climbing or bouldering permit is required for all activities, ensuring compliance with park guidelines. Climbing is best suited to Wingate sandstone due to its relative stability, though caution is still advised.
Permit System:
Day-Use Permits:
Permits are free and must be obtained for each day and climbing zone.
Permits can be requested in person at the Visitor Center or via email at care_permits@nps.gov.
To apply via email, include the zone name, date, number of people, vehicle details, and location. Separate emails are required for multi-day activities.
Overnight Climbs:
A free backcountry camping permit is required if staying overnight on a climbing route.
Costs:
Permit Fee: Free.
Additional Notes:
Group Size Limits: Maximum of 8 people per group.
Restrictions:
White chalk is prohibited; use rock-colored chalk only.
Power drills and new fixed hardware installations are not allowed. Existing unsafe bolts may be replaced with authorization.
Rappelling or climbing on arches with openings greater than 3 feet is prohibited.
Climbing is not allowed within 300 feet of archaeological sites or within 1/4 mile of nesting raptors.
Safety Concerns: Climbing is hazardous in wet conditions, as sandstone becomes unstable. Afternoon thunderstorms in summer pose additional risks.
Closed Areas: Climbing is prohibited at certain locations, including:
Cliffs north of SR-24 (Fruita area)
Chimney Rock
Temple of the Sun and Temple of the Moon
Details:
3. Canyoneering (Year-Round)
Overview:
Canyoneering in Capitol Reef involves navigating rugged slot canyons that may require scrambling, swimming, and rappelling. Permits are mandatory for all canyoneering routes, helping to protect delicate ecosystems and manage park resources. The park is considered a "clean canyoneering" area, where minimum impact techniques are required.
Permit System:
Day-Use Permits:
Free permits are required and can be obtained in person at the Visitor Center or via email.
Each permit applies to a single route and must be requested separately for each day and route.
To request via email, include the following in the subject line and body:
Subject: Route Name and Date of Visit
Body: Date, Route Name, Number of People, Vehicle Location, Vehicle Count, and Vehicle Description.
Overnight Trips:
An additional free backcountry permit is required if camping overnight during a canyoneering trip.
Costs:
Permit Fee: Free.
Additional Notes:
Group Size Limits: Maximum of 8 people per group, with exceptions for routes near the Fruita area.
Regulations:
Installation of new fixed anchors (e.g., bolts) is prohibited.
Existing webbing must match the rock color, and power drills are not allowed.
Physical alteration of rock faces, including chiseling or gluing holds, is prohibited.
Rappelling off arches with openings greater than 3 feet is not allowed.
Human and environmental impacts must be minimized; all trash, including webbing, must be packed out.
Seasonal Closures: Certain areas may be closed for resource protection; check at the Visitor Center for updates.
Safety Precautions:
Canyons often require full commitment once entered, with no escape options.
Be aware of weather forecasts, as flash floods can occur even miles away.
Groups should prepare for self-rescue, as many routes are remote and lack cell service.
Details:
Resources:
Recreation.gov – Platform for reserving permits and campsites.
National Park Service – Official source for park updates and permit information.
Social Media: Follow each park's official channels for real-time alerts and updates.
By planning ahead and being aware of these permit deadlines and requirements, you can ensure a well-prepared and enjoyable visit to Southern Utah's Mighty 5 National Parks.
Rules and regulations can change without our knowledge or update. The links provided are there to help you find the right places to look and double check. PLEASE BE SAFE AND FOLLOW ALL NPS RULES AND REGULATIONS! BLACKTHORN WILL NOT BE HELD LIABLE FOR YOU NOT FOLLOWING ALL NPS RULES AND REGULATIONS AND THE RESULTING CONSEQUENCES.
Have fun and be safe out there!
