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5 Permits Available

Rocky Mountain National Park Permits

Colorado's crown jewel with alpine tundra and stunning peaks.

Longs PeakWild BasinBear Lake

Signature Experiences

The most sought-after permits in Rocky Mountain

Very High Demand

RMNP Timed Entry

“The $2 booking that decides whether you drive into Rocky Mountain at ten in the morning or sit outside the gate until two in the afternoon.”

All Permits

Select a permit to learn more and set up alerts

First-Come, First-ServedDay Use
Very High Demand

Rocky Mountain Timed Entry Reservation permit

The day-use vehicle reservation required to drive into Rocky Mountain during the busiest hours from late May to mid-October, in two versions depending on whether you want Bear Lake Road.

Season:May 22
Permit dates and alerts
ReservationOvernight
Moderate

Wilderness Camping permit

General backcountry permit.

Lottery Opens:Not a lottery - summer reservations opened March 1, 2026 at 8:00 am MST
Season:May 1
Permit dates and alerts
ReservationOvernight
Moderate

Thunder Lake Zone permit

Remote backcountry zone in Wild Basin.

Permit dates and alerts
ReservationOvernight
Moderate

Forest Canyon Zone permit

Rugged canyon wilderness camping.

Permit dates and alerts
ReservationOvernight
Moderate

Mummy Range Zone permit

Less visited northern section.

Permit dates and alerts

Other National Parks Areas

Explore more wilderness permits in the region

North Cascades National Park wilderness area

North Cascades permits

5 permits

Denali National Park wilderness area

Denali permits

4 permits

Crater Lake National Park wilderness area

Crater Lake permits

1 permit

Big Bend National Park wilderness area

Big Bend permits

3 permits

Rocky Mountain Permit FAQ

What permits are required for Rocky Mountain National Park?

Rocky Mountain National Park requires permits for various activities including RMNP Wilderness, Thunder Lake, Forest Canyon, Mummy Range, RMNP Timed Entry. Each permit has different requirements and booking processes.

How do I get a permit for Rocky Mountain National Park?

Permits for Rocky Mountain National Park are available through Reservation, First-Come, First-Served systems. Use PermitSnag to track availability and get notified when cancellations occur.

When should I apply for Rocky Mountain National Park permits?

Timing varies by permit type. Lottery permits typically open months in advance, while reservation permits release on a rolling basis. Set up alerts with PermitSnag to never miss an opening.