National Parks Backcountry Permits
America's crown jewels managed by the National Park Service. These iconic landscapes require permits to protect their pristine wilderness character.
About National Parks Permits
National Parks represent America's crown jewels of wilderness. Managed by the National Park Service, these protected areas see heavy visitation and require permits to preserve their character. From the Grand Canyon's depths to Glacier's pristine alpine lakes, NPS permits are among the most sought-after in the country. Most use Recreation.gov for reservations, though lottery systems vary by park.
Best Time to Visit
Peak season runs June through September for most parks. Shoulder seasons (May, October) offer fewer crowds but variable weather. Winter access is limited in many parks but can provide unique experiences.
Signature Experiences
The most sought-after permits in National Parks
Parks & Wilderness Areas
Browse permits by location
Grand Canyon National Park
One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World....
Glacier National Park
Crown of the Continent with pristine alpine lakes and dramatic peaks....
Mount Rainier National Park
Iconic Pacific Northwest volcano with the famous Wonderland Trail....
Olympic National Park
Diverse wilderness from rainforest to alpine peaks to wild coastline....
Yellowstone National Park
America's first national park with incredible geothermal features and wildlife....
Grand Teton National Park
Dramatic peaks rising from the valley floor with world-class climbing and hiking....
Rocky Mountain National Park
Colorado's crown jewel with alpine tundra and stunning peaks....
Search National Parks Permits
Find specific permits or browse all 21 permits
Bright Angel
LotteryGrand Canyon · National Parks
Wonderland
LotteryPopularMt. Rainier · National Parks
GC Backcountry
LotteryPopularGrand Canyon · National Parks
Havasupai Gardens
LotteryGrand Canyon · National Parks
Many Glacier
ReservationGlacier · National Parks
Enchanted Valley
ReservationOlympic · National Parks
Teton Crest
ReservationPopularGrand Teton · National Parks
Cottonwood
LotteryGrand Canyon · National Parks
Glacier Backcountry
ReservationPopularGlacier · National Parks
Wilderness
ReservationMt. Rainier · National Parks
Seven Lakes
ReservationOlympic · National Parks
Ozette Coast
ReservationOlympic · National Parks
Shoshone Lake
ReservationYellowstone · National Parks
Paintbrush
ReservationGrand Teton · National Parks
Longs Peak
ReservationRocky Mountain · National Parks
Two Medicine
ReservationGlacier · National Parks
Hoh River
ReservationOlympic · National Parks
Bechler
ReservationYellowstone · National Parks
Alaska Basin
ReservationGrand Teton · National Parks
RMNP Wilderness
ReservationRocky Mountain · National Parks
Explore Other Regions
Planning a bigger trip? Check out permits in other areas.
National Parks Permit FAQ
How many backcountry permits does PermitSnag track in National Parks?
PermitSnag tracks over 21 backcountry permits across National Parks, including day-use permits, overnight permits, thru-hike entries, and specialized permits like canyoneering and river access.
What are the most popular permits in National Parks?
The most competitive National Parks permits include Bright Angel, Wonderland, GC Backcountry. These permits often sell out immediately when released.
How do I get notified about National Parks permit cancellations?
Sign up for PermitSnag to receive instant alerts when National Parks permits become available due to cancellations. Our system monitors availability 24/7 and notifies you immediately.
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Be the first to know when cancellations open up for National Parks's most competitive permits.