Lost Canyon Permit: Route
Lost Canyon permits are booked by advance reservation in Canyonlands National Park. The route covers 10 miles.
Discover a hidden canyon that lives up to its name, where 3 designated campsites offer true wilderness solitude in the heart of the Needles.
This guide covers the Lost Canyon permit.
1-2 nights
Duration
10 miles
Distance
600'
Elevation Gain
moderate
Difficulty
About Lost Canyon
Lost Canyon offers true wilderness camping with 3 designated sites (LC1-LC3). Less trafficked than neighboring canyons, it rewards those seeking solitude.
Lost Canyon sees fewer visitors than Chesler Park or Elephant Canyon. The three campsites here offer exceptional solitude for those willing to navigate less-traveled terrain.
The Lost Canyon route
- Distance
- 10 miles
- Route type
- out-and-back
- Elevation gain
- 600 ft
- High point
- 5,300 ft
- Low point
- 4,800 ft
- Trip length
- 1-2 nights
- Difficulty
- moderate
Lost Canyon permit detailsandAll Canyonlands National Park permits
The Experience
The canyon twists and turns, each bend revealing new formations. You pass ancient pothole water sources and scramble over slickrock obstacles. The campsite appears suddenly, tucked in an alcove you might have walked past. This is what 'lost' means in the best sense.
What to Expect
5 miles to campsites
3 designated campsites
Less trafficked than alternatives
Route-finding skills helpful
True wilderness experience
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Permit Requirements
Backcountry permit required
Specific site assigned
Maximum 7 people per backpacking site — the 10-person figure belongs to the Needles 4WD vehicle campsites, which are a different permit
No fires
Pack out all waste
Gear & Preparation
Required Gear
- •4L water capacity
- •Bear canister
- •GPS or detailed map
- •Water filter for potholes
Hazards & Safety
Flash floods
Water scarcity
Route-finding challenges
Heat in summer
Best Time to Visit
March-May and September-November.
100+ wilderness permits, extensive backcountry experience
This guide is based on personal experience obtaining wilderness permits and is regularly updated to reflect current policies and strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a Lost Canyon permit?
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Lost Canyon permits require advance reservations. Book online as soon as reservations open for your desired dates.
When is the best time to visit Lost Canyon?
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March-May and September-November.
How long is the Lost Canyon route?
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The route is 10 miles, as an out-and-back. Plan on 1-2 nights.
How difficult is the Lost Canyon route?
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Backpackers seeking solitude and route-finding challenges.
What gear do I need for the Lost Canyon route?
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Essential gear includes: 4L water capacity, Bear canister, GPS or detailed map, Water filter for potholes.
Don't Miss Your Lost Canyon Permit
Cancellations happen every day. PermitSnag monitors Lost Canyon availability 24/7 and alerts you the moment a spot opens up.
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