7 Most Sought-After Permit Hikes in U.S. National Parks

Exploring the scenic wonders of U.S. national parks is on every hiker’s bucket list. However, due to the fragile nature of these environments and their immense popularity, the National Park Service (NPS) has implemented permit systems to regulate access. These permits help protect ecosystems and ensure safety. Here are seven of the most coveted permit hikes across U.S. national parks:

1. Rim to Rim Trail, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

The Rim to Rim Trail is a challenging 24-mile journey across the Grand Canyon, stretching from the North Rim to the South Rim. While day hikes along the canyon rims don’t require a permit, those wanting to camp overnight need a hard-to-get backcountry permit. The stunning vistas and the rare chance to camp inside one of the most visited national parks make this trail highly desirable.

Details:

• Distance: 24.6 miles
• Difficulty: Hard
• Elevation Gain: 5,574 feet
• Trail Type: Point-to-Point
• Permit Quota: Varies by season

2. John Muir Trail, California

The John Muir Trail (JMT) offers a 219-mile trek through the heart of California’s Sierra Nevada, passing through Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia National Parks. Beginning in Yosemite, hikers need a Yosemite Wilderness Permit, which are limited to preserve the trail’s natural beauty. The journey culminates in a climb to Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous U.S., making it a sought-after adventure.

Details:

• Distance: 219.4 miles
• Difficulty: Hard
• Elevation Gain: 46,459 feet
• Trail Type: Point-to-Point
• Permit Quota: 45 per day from Yosemite, 60 per day for Mount Whitney overnights

3. The Wave, Coyote Buttes North, Utah/Arizona

The Wave, located in the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument on the Utah-Arizona border, is famous for its surreal, vibrant sandstone formations. To preserve this delicate environment, only 64 people or 16 groups are permitted to visit each day. The application process is highly competitive, often resembling a lottery where winners are granted access to this unique landscape.

Details:

• Distance: 6.7 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation Gain: 1,204 feet
• Trail Type: Out and Back
• Permit Quota: 64 people or 16 groups per day

4. Angels Landing, Zion National Park, Utah

Angels Landing is renowned as one of the most thrilling and dangerous hikes in the U.S. Located in Zion National Park, the trail features narrow ridges and steep drop-offs navigated with the help of chains. Due to its popularity and inherent risks, a permit system limits the number of hikers, helping to manage crowding and enhance safety.

Details:

• Distance: 5.4 miles
• Difficulty: Hard
• Elevation Gain: 1,448 feet
• Trail Type: Out and Back
• Permit Quota: Up to 1,000 per day

5. Half Dome, Yosemite National Park, California

Half Dome is an iconic granite formation towering over Yosemite National Park. The hike to its summit includes a final ascent with the aid of steel cables. To control the number of climbers and ensure safety, permits are required for this segment of the trail. The limited number of daily permits makes this hike one of the most coveted in the park.

Details

• Distance: 16.5 miles via the John Muir Trail
• Difficulty: Hard
• Elevation Gain: 5,305 feet
• Trail Type: Out and Back
• Permit Quota: 225 per day

6. Teton Crest Trail, Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

The Teton Crest Trail is a 40-mile trek through the spectacular backcountry of Grand Teton National Park. With its mix of towering peaks, pristine lakes, and vibrant meadows, this trail captures the essence of the Teton range. Due to the limited number of campsites, backcountry permits are highly sought after and typically sell out quickly each year.

Details:

• Distance: 39.5 miles
• Difficulty: Hard
• Elevation Gain: 9,045 feet
• Trail Type: Point-to-Point
• Permit Quota: 11 groups per night

7. Havasu Falls, Arizona

Located just outside the boundaries of Grand Canyon National Park, Havasu Falls is renowned for its stunning turquoise waterfalls. Managed by the Havasupai Tribe, this remote area requires an overnight permit, with a minimum stay of three nights. The limited availability of these permits and the area’s breathtaking beauty make Havasu Falls a top destination for hikers.

Details:

• Distance: Approximately 10 miles to the falls
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation Gain: 2,800 feet
• Trail Type: Out and Back
• Permit Quota: Limited overnight permits

From the deep canyons of Arizona to the towering peaks of California, these permit hikes offer unparalleled adventures in some of America’s most stunning natural settings. Planning ahead and understanding the permit process are essential steps in securing a spot on these extraordinary trails.