Angels Landing Permit
Required permit for the chain-assisted climb to Angels Landing.
“One of America's most sought-after wilderness permits.”
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Angels Landing Quick Facts
- Permit Required
- Yes
- Booking Method
- Lottery
- Demand Level
- Extremely High
- Cost
- $6
- Daily Quota
- 400 permits
- Season
- Year-round
About This Permit
Angels Landing is Zion's most famous hike. The final half-mile follows a narrow spine with 1,000-foot drops on both sides. You grip steel chains bolted into the rock. It's not for everyone, but for those who complete it, the 360-degree views from the summit are unforgettable.
The Experience
Why It Matters
Angels Landing is among the most competitive permits in Zion. Thousands attempt to get permits each season, and success requires planning, persistence, and often a bit of luck. The permit system exists because this destination is genuinely special.
Key Dates
Permit Details
Pro Tips
- •Apply to both lotteries every month
- •Winter has much better odds
- •Scout Lookout doesn't require permit
- •Start at first shuttle
- •Avoid if storms or ice
What to Expect
Route Details
Highlights
- •5.4 miles round trip
- •1,488 feet elevation gain
- •4-5 hours for most hikers
- •21 switchbacks on Walter's Wiggles
- •Final half-mile with chains and exposure
- •Crowds on weekends and holidays
Best Time to Visit
Spring and fall offer the best conditions. Summer is hot (start very early). Winter has fewer crowds but potential ice on the chains.
Hazards & Considerations
- !Steep dropoffs (1,000+ feet)
- !Slippery rock when wet
- !Lightning storms
- !Extreme heat in summer
- !Ice in winter
When to Go
Conditions
Mild temperatures. Occasional rain. Wildflowers in lower elevations.
Crowd Level
ModerateAdvantages
- +Pleasant temperatures
- +Fewer crowds than fall
- +Wildflowers
Challenges
- !Unpredictable weather
- !Some areas still muddy
- !Flash flood risk
Difficulty Assessment
Fitness and endurance required
Climbing, scrambling, or specialized skills
Steep dropoffs and fall potential
Route finding and trail clarity
Difficulty of bailing out mid-route
Best For
Hikers of moderate fitness willing to put in the effort.
Recommended Experience
Basic hiking experience. Start with shorter trails if new to hiking.
How to Get This Permit
Create a Recreation.gov account
Sign up at recreation.gov if you don't have an account. Verify your email and add payment info ahead of time.
Apply during the lottery window
Submit your application between Seasonal: 1st of each month and Seasonal: 15th of each month. Apply for multiple dates to increase your odds.
If unsuccessful, monitor cancellations
Permits get cancelled daily. Peak cancellation times are 24-48 hours before the trip date.
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Rules & Regulations
- •Permit required for chain section (past Scout Lookout)
- •No permit needed for Scout Lookout
- •Seasonal lottery: apply months ahead
- •Day-before lottery: results at 6pm
Gear Checklist
Required
- Sturdy hiking shoes
- Water (2+ liters)
- Sun protection
Recommended
- Trekking poles (for approach)
- Gloves for chains
- Layers for wind
Angels Landing FAQ
How does the permit system work?
Two lotteries: seasonal (applying 1-3 months ahead) and day-before. The seasonal lottery opens the 1st of each month. Day-before lottery results come at 6pm the day before your hike.
Can I hike without a permit?
You can hike to Scout Lookout (the viewpoint before the chains) without a permit. The permit is only required for the final chain-assisted section to the summit.
What time should I start?
Start early. The first shuttle leaves at 6am in summer. Starting early beats crowds and afternoon heat. The hike takes 4-5 hours round trip.
Is it dangerous?
Yes, falls have been fatal. The final section has steep dropoffs and requires holding chains. Do not attempt in wet, icy, or stormy conditions.
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