by Ellen Heyn, Communications Manager
Zion National Park is a mecca for canyoneering, hiking, and rock climbing — where legendary routes like Angels Landing and the Narrows draw hordes of hikers to the scenic wonders. But the most popular places and routes require coveted, hard-to-get permits in order to visit them. Before you jump into planning your Zion adventure, know the basics of where you can go and what you can do, with and without permits. Here’s the breakdown:
Zion permits are like gold, and securing one requires some planning and a little bit of luck. Generally, there are four ways to get one.
You can make advance reservations for backpacking, canyoneering day trips, and overnight climbing trips up to three months in advance, with the next batch of permits becoming available on the fifth of each month at 10:00 a.m. MDT.
An online portal allows you to select the sites, canyons, or climbing routes you desire. Calendars display permit availability. If the permit you want is available, simply select it, fill out the reservation form and payment information, and hit submit.
Note: The reservation is not actually the permit. You need to physically pick up your permit from a park visitor center before your trip.
From April to October, permits for the Subway and Mystery Canyon are in especially high demand. Three months in advance of your desired trip, complete an application, ranking three desired dates (applications accepted January through July). You will receive notification on the fifth day of the next month as to the status of your application. More on the lottery for these canyoneering classics ›
The park may have last-minute permits for canyoneering day trips available (including the Narrows). If so, you can submit an application, along with a $5 non-refundable fee, for the lottery system seven to two days out from your desired trip. The drawing runs two days prior to the requested date at 1 p.m. MDT. Check availability here ›
Tip: If you live within driving distance of Zion and can make a quick trip happen, this is a great option.
About a third of backpacking permits are available as walk-in permits. It’s worth stopping at either of the park visitor centers to see what’s available.
There are plenty of sights to see within the park, even if you don't have a permit. Need ideas? We've got you covered ›
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