Do I need a permit to backpack Olympic National Park Wilderness?

What the Olympic National Park Wilderness permit costs and covers

Fee

$8/person/night (16+, under-16 free) + $6 reservation fee; $45 annual pass covers nightly fee

Group size limit

12 people

Season starts

May 15

Season ends

October 15

What the rules require

• Wilderness permit required year-round for all overnight stays
• Bear canisters required in all wilderness camp areas
• Group size for overnight wilderness trips is limited to 12 people and 8 stock
• Each camp area sets its own maximum, 6 to 12 people, so check the area before you book
• Groups of seven or more must use designated group sites in Sol Duc/Seven Lakes Basin, Hoh Lake Trail, Hoh River Valley, Grand Valley, Royal Basin, Flapjack Lakes, Lake Constance, and Upper Lena Lake
• Affiliated groups may not combine to form a group of more than 12 people, and must camp and travel at least one mile apart
• Camp only in designated sites where they are assigned, and follow food storage rules
• $8 per person per night for ages 16 and up, plus a $6 reservation fee per permit

Published rules for the Olympic National Park Wilderness Permit, quoted as written.

Getting one

Dates for Olympic National Park Wilderness sell out and then come back as people cancel. PermitSnag watches Olympic National Park Wilderness Permit and sends you an alert the moment one reappears.

Common questions about the Olympic National Park Wilderness permit