From the summit of Mount Whitney to the alpine wonder of the Enchantments and the alien terrain of The Wave, we live so close to world-class adventure and beauty. However, due to increasing popularity, many of these landscapes now require you to enter a lottery to have a chance at experiencing them. To ensure you’re in the loop, in this guide you’ll find important 2025 lottery dates, deadlines, and need-to-knows for the country’s most popular and competitive backpacking and hiking permits, as well as tips on increasing your odds of success!
A quick note: Please don’t attempt to hike or backpack these trails without a permit. Park rangers heavily patrol these areas and will issue a citation and turn you around. Also, hiking permits and quotas are in place to help protect the land and allow us to recreate on them sustainably.
- Mount Whitney Day Use and Overnight Permit Lottery
- Enchantments Permit Area Advanced Lottery
- Mount Rainier National Park Wilderness Permits Early-Access Lottery
- North Cascades National Park Backcountry Permits Early-Access Lottery
- Yellowstone Backcountry Permits Early-Access Lottery
- Half Dome Hiking Permit Advanced Lottery
- Angels Landing Summer Permit Lottery
- Coyote Buttes North (The Wave) Advanced Permit Lottery
- Grand Canyon National Park Backcountry Permits Early-Access Lottery
Mount Whitney Day Use and Overnight Permit Lottery
The highest point in the contiguous United States, Mount Whitney is a true accomplishment for any outdoor enthusiast and a bucket list adventure for many. It’s no easy trek—you’ll have to traverse over 6,000 feet of elevation gain in 22 miles to complete your hike, and many fail to make it to the top each year. To reach the 14,505-foot summit, you’ll need to secure either a day use or an overnight wilderness permit.
Important Dates
Lottery Opens: February 1
Lottery Closes: March 1
Lottery Results Announced: March 15
Deadline to Confirm Reservation: April 21
Unclaimed Reservations Released: April 22 at 7 AM PT
Permit Needed: May 1 to November 1
What to know
During the lottery window, you can apply for up to 10 dates or date ranges in preference order. When applying, you also can designate up to three alternate permit holders. Once submitted, you cannot edit the trip leader or alternates, and one of you must be present to pick up and use the permit. 100 day use and 60 overnight hiking permits are available per day to hike up the Mount Whitney Trail.
Increase your odds of winning a permit
The U.S. Forest Service luckily has released the 2023 Mt Whitney Lottery statistics, giving us valuable information to help increase your odds of winning a permit. July and August were the most popular months by far, with the first weekend in August as the most requested date. Consider planning your hike in September, when application numbers are less and the weather is still favorable. In addition, those who chose date ranges were more successful than those who chose single dates. Finally, weekdays tend to be less popular than weekends. You can find more information about the lottery results here.
If You Didn’t Win the Lottery
If you were unsuccessful at winning a reservation through the lottery, don’t worry. Make sure you are ready to snag an unclaimed permit on April 22 at 7 AM PT. If you’re flexible you likely can secure a permit. Make sure to also check back every so often as people will drop their permits, giving you an opportunity to claim them. Also, if you are looking to summit Mount Whitney as part of a backpacking trip, consider alternate trailheads. For example, many Inyo National Forest wilderness permits allow you to exit Mount Whitney.
Enchantments Permit Area Advanced Lottery
Located in Washington’s Cascade Mountains, the Enchantments live up to their name. This glacially carved landscape is a true nature-lovers playground, with gorgeous alpine lakes and meadows, jagged mountain peaks, and mountain goats seemingly everywhere. You will need a permit to camp in this fairytale-like landscape.
Important Dates
Lottery Opens: February 15
Lottery Closes: March 1
Lottery Results Announced: March 17
Unclaimed Reservations Released: April 1 at 7 AM PT
Deadline to Confirm Reservation: March 31
Permit Needed: May 15 to October 31
What to Know
You need a permit to camp in one of five zones in the Enchantments. While the lottery is open, you can apply for up to three entrance dates and zones with a maximum of 8 people per permit. Groups must enter together and camp in their designated zone (Core Enchantment Permit holders can camp in all zones).
Increase your odds of winning a permit
The U.S. National Forest has released statistics on the Enchantment Area Wilderness Permits and historic lottery data. If you’re looking to obtain a permit, the Eighmile Caroline Zone is the least competitive, while the Colchuck and Core Enchantment Zones are the most. You also should apply for the maximum number of dates, as this will increase your odds. You can view the Enchantment Area Wilderness Permit lottery statistics here.
If You Didn’t Win the Lottery
If you didn’t win the advanced lottery, be ready at 7 AM PT on April 1 to try and snag any unclaimed reservations. Otherwise, you can try for the daily lottery. Between 7 AM and 10 AM the day before your start date, if you are within one mile of the Leavenworth Ranger Station and are using a location-enabled device like a smartphone you can apply. Results are announced at 11 AM and you must confirm your reservation by 2 PM. There is no lottery on Saturdays or Sundays, so plan accordingly.
Mount Rainier National Park Wilderness Permits Early-Access Lottery
Mount Rainier National Park is a Washington State gem and a must-visit spot for nature enthusiasts. Highlighted by its 14,410-foot namesake volcano, this wilderness area is filled with beautiful meadows, lush forests, and stunning landscapes shaped by fire and ice. Those looking to complete a backcountry adventure, including the Wonderland Trail, need a permit and should apply during the early-access lottery.
Important Dates
Lottery Opens: February 10
Lottery Closes: March 3
Lottery Results Announced: March 14
Early Access Reservations Start: March 21 (lottery winners will receive a specific date and time that they can access the early access reservation)
General On-Sale Starts: April 25
Permit Needed: May 1 to October 12
What to Know
Unlike other areas, Mount Rainier National Park has specific designated backcountry camping areas. The early access lottery gives you the ability to be one of the first to make a wilderness reservation and book these campsites. If successful in the lottery, you will get a date and time when you can make and complete your reservation. The park releases 2/3 of its hiking permits in advance, with the other 1/3 available as walk-ups. Those looking to embark on a multi-day trip, like the Wonderland Trail, are highly encouraged to participate in the advanced lottery, as it gives them the best chance to build a complete itinerary.
Increase Your Odds of Securing a Permit
While there aren’t published lottery statistics, flexibility is key to creating a successful itinerary. If you can, plan your trip to start during the middle of the week as reservations are less competitive. Also look into hiking during the shoulder season, especially after the school year starts. Finally, have alternate campsites in mind and be prepared before your reservation window opens so that you can adapt your plans if necessary.
If You Didn’t Win the Lottery
General on-sale starts on April 25 at 7 AM PT. You’ll want to be ready at this time to have the best chance of securing a permit. Otherwise, hiking permits are available on-site on a first-come, first-served basis starting the day before your trip. If you are hoping to complete a multi-day trek like the Wonderland Trail and are flexible with where you camp, you can still try to string together an itinerary solely with walk-up permits.
North Cascades National Park Backcountry Permits Early-Access Lottery
One of the least visited National Parks, North Cascades showcases stunning beauty with few crowds. Full of glacially carved landscapes, gorgeous alpine lakes, and beautiful forested valleys, this national park is a truly remarkable place. If you’re hoping to embark on an overnight backpacking trip, be sure to obtain a permit.
Important Dates
Lottery Opens: March 3
Lottery Closes: March 14
Lottery Results Announced: March 21
Early Access Reservations Start: March 24 (lottery winners will receive a specific date and time that they can access the early access reservation)
General On-Sale Starts: April 29
Permit Reservations Needed: May 16 to October 11
What to Know
The early-access lottery allows you to be one of the first to obtain a wilderness permit. If successful, you will get a date and time when you can make and complete your reservation. Otherwise, the park will release any remaining advanced reservations during the general on-sale. 60% of hiking permits are available in advance, with the remaining 40% available as walk-ups starting the day before.
Increase Your Odds of Securing a Permit
North Cascades National Park is getting more popular, with only around a 17% lottery success rate in 2024. Regardless, to increase your chances of securing a permit, the number one piece of advice is to be flexible. If possible, try planning your trip during the middle of the week. Also, consider exploring the shoulder season, especially after the school year has started. Finally, have a few alternatives and backups in mind in case your first choice is completely booked.
If You Didn’t Win the Lottery
General on-sale starts on April 29 at 7 AM PT. You’ll want to be ready at this time to have the best chance of securing a permit. Otherwise, hiking permits are available on-site on a first-come, first-served basis starting the day before your trip. When trying to obtain a walk-up permit, be sure to have an itinerary in mind but also expect to make changes depending on availability.
Yellowstone Backcountry Permits Early-Access Lottery
Our country’s first national park, Yellowstone’s 2.2 million acres is ripe for exploring. From its geothermal activity to pristine wilderness and boundless wildlife, this national park draws visitors from all over every year. Those looking to escape the crowds can venture into the park’s backcountry. But before doing so, they must obtain a wilderness permit.
Important Dates
Lottery Opens: March 1
Lottery Closes: March 20
Lottery Results Announced: March 25
Early Access Reservations Start: April 1 (lottery winners will receive a specific date and time that they can access the early access reservation)
General On-Sale Starts: April 26
Peak Season Permit Reservations Needed: May 15 to October 31
What to Know
Backpacking and camping in Yellowstone National Park is restricted to designated campsites. The early-access lottery allows you to be one of the first to obtain a wilderness permit for these areas. If successful, you will get a specific date and time to make and complete your reservation. Otherwise, any remaining advanced reservations are released during the general on-sale window. Only one application is allowed per person. About 75% of campsite reservations are available in advance, with the remaining 25% obtained as a walk-up two days before your trip.
Increase Your Odds of Securing a Permit
While there don’t seem to be lottery statistics online, being flexible is key to successfully securing your wilderness permit. Those looking to explore during the middle of the week generally have an easier time snagging campsites, as well as those who visit during the shoulder season (as opposed to the peak summer time). Also, if you are given a later reservation window or fail to win the early-access lottery, be sure to have a few alternatives in mind in case your first choice is fully booked.
If You Didn’t Win the Lottery
General on-sale starts on April 29 at 8 AM MT. You’ll want to be ready at this time to have the best chance of securing a permit. Otherwise, hiking permits are available on-site on a first-come, first-served basis starting two days before your trip. When trying to obtain a walk-up permit, have an itinerary in mind but also expect to change your plans depending on availability.
Half Dome Hiking Permit Advanced Lottery
The hike to the top of Half Dome may be one of the most iconic trails in the entire country. Capped by its infamous cable section, which requires you to use cables to climb the 45-degree mountain face to reach the summit, it’s a true adventure. Hiking permits are required to reach the top of Half Dome when the cables are up.
Important Dates
Lottery Opens: March 1
Lottery Closes: March 31
Lottery Results Announced: April 11
Deadline to Confirm Reservation: May 18
Daily lottery: May 21 to October 13 (released two days before your hiking date. Conditions may adjust these dates)
Permit Needed: May 23 to October 15 (When the cables go up. Conditions may adjust these dates)
What to Know
You will need a Half Dome permit to climb the cables past Sub Dome. Up to six people are allowed on one permit, and you can apply for a series of dates or date ranges during the lottery in preference order. You also can designate one alternate permit holder. Either you or the alternate permit holder must be present to pick up and use the permit. 300 hikers are allowed each day to reach the top of Half Dome.
Increase your odds of winning a permit
Yosemite National Park has luckily shared a page all about Half Dome Statistics. In general, weekends tend to be the most requested dates. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are the least popular, so apply during the middle of the week for the best chance at securing a permit. Also, applying for a permit closer to the opening and closing of the season will likely increase your chances. You can check out the statistics page here.
If You Didn’t Win the Lottery
If you didn’t win the advanced lottery, you can apply for the daily lottery which starts in May. Permits are released two days in advance of your intended start date. Apply between midnight and 4 PM, and the park will announce results via email the same night. If you want to include Half Dome as part of an overnight backpacking trip, there are several trailheads throughout the park that allow you to do so. Visit the Half Dome backpacking page for more information.
Hiking Half Dome is an unforgettable adventure, but it’s important to prepare fully before you embark on your trip. Check out our Half Dome hiking guide for everything you need to know, including a breakdown of the different sections, safety and gear, and my two experiences hiking this iconic trail!
Angels Landing Summer Permit Lottery
Angels Landing is one of the most breathtaking hikes in Zion National Park. This strenuous trail takes you past many switchbacks and a steep cable section to the top of the rock formation. Since 2022, a permit is required to embark on this hike. Each season has its own portal, you can find information for the summer lottery below.
Important Dates
Summer Lottery Opens: April 1
Summer Lottery Closes: April 20
Summer Lottery Results Announced: April 25
Summer Daily lottery: May 31 to August 30 (released one day before the hiking date)
Permit Needed: Year-round (each season has its own lottery portal)
What to Know
Up to six people are allowed per permit, and you can apply for up to seven dates or date ranges in preference order. There are also several time windows in which you can choose to start your hike. For the summer lottery, you can start before 9 AM or after 9 AM. The number of hiking permits available varies due to a variety of factors, including time of year, trail conditions, and shuttle schedules and capacity.
Increase your odds of winning a permit
Since this is a pilot program, there isn’t much data on permit success rate and distribution. However, the National Park Service has noted that weekends and holidays typically see more applications. If you’re hoping to increase your chances of winning a permit, think about applying for a date during the middle of the week. Also, date ranges will have better odds of success compared to single dates.
If You Didn’t Win the Lottery
If you didn’t win the advanced lottery, you can apply for the daily lottery, which opens one day in advance of your intended start date. You can apply at recreation.gov between 12:01 AM to 3 PM MT. At 4 PM, you will find out if your application was successful. If you have some flexibility with your trip and are visiting for multiple days, then apply for every day you plan on exploring the park and be open to pivoting your plans if needed.
Coyote Buttes North (The Wave) Advanced Permit Lottery
Coyote Buttes North, also known as The Wave is one of the hardest hiking permits to get, but for good reason. This breathtaking rock formation is one of the most striking in the world (there’s no doubt that you’ve seen it on Instagram). To reach your destination, you’ll need to be comfortable with a 6.4-mile round-trip hike through an undeveloped wilderness area. Note if you plan on visiting in the summer, the heat will play a major factor in your adventure!
Important Dates
June Lottery Application Window: February 1 to February 28
June Lottery Results: March 1 around 9 AM MT
July Lottery Application Window: March 1 to March 31
July Lottery Results: April 1 around 9 AM MT
August Lottery Application Window: April 1 to April 30
August Lottery Results: May 1 around 9 AM MT
September Lottery Application Window: May 1 to May 31
September Lottery Results: June 1 around 9 AM MT
October Application Window: June 1 to June 30
October Lottery Results: July 1 around 9 AM MT
November Lottery Application Window: July 1 to July 31
November Lottery Results: August 1 around 9 AM MT
Permit Needed: Year-round
What to Know
When applying, you may choose up to three trip dates and add up to six people per application. You also can designate a maximum of three alternate permit holders. 48 individuals or 12 groups are awarded hiking permits per day depending on whichever is reached first. An additional 16 people or 4 groups are awarded permits via the daily lottery. Successful advanced lottery winners will have their permits mailed to them 4-6 weeks after payment.
Increase your odds of winning a permit
The wave is one of the most competitive hiking permits to apply for and often has a less than 10% success rate. To increase your chances of winning, avoid weekends, holidays, and school breaks. Instead, aim for a date in the middle of the week. It’s also smart to apply outside of peak season—the spring and fall will likely be more competitive than winter or summer (but note that conditions are much more unforgiving during these times). Make sure to apply for the maximum amount of dates.
If You Didn’t Win the Lottery
If you didn’t win the advanced lottery, you can apply for the daily lottery, which opens two days before your start date. On day 1, you must apply between 6 AM and 6 PM (Utah time, since Arizona doesn’t follow Daylight Savings Time) within the geofenced perimeter on a location-enabled device, like a smartphone. The park will announce winners at 7:15 PM who will have up to 8 AM the following day to confirm and pay.
On day 2, they must be present at their pick-up location at 8:30 AM local time (Utah and Arizona will be an hour apart depending on the time of year) for a safety briefing. Finally, on day 3 permit holders are able to explore The Wave.
The daily lottery process is complicated. You can find more information by scrolling down to the “Lottery Information” header on the daily lottery page.
Grand Canyon National Park Backcountry Permits Early-Access Lottery
While many visit Grand Canyon National Park each year, few make the journey down below the rim. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to experience this park in a way many rarely do, then you’ll want to plan a backcountry trip down to its floor. To do so, you’ll need to obtain a wilderness permit.
Important Dates
September Lottery Application Window: April 16 to 5 PM MT on May 1
September Lottery Results: Early May
October Lottery Application Window: May 16 to 5 PM MT on June 1
October Lottery Results: Early June
November Lottery Application Window: June 16 to 5 PM MT on July 1
November Lottery Results: Early July
What to Know
The Grand Canyon Backcountry early-access lottery allows you to be one of the first to obtain a wilderness permit. After randomization and reordering, applicants in the top 750 are given a date and time to complete their reservation. Those further down on the list can access the wilderness permit portal after the winners, usually around the 20th of the month. Any unclaimed hiking permits are released to everyone once the lottery month concludes.
Increase your odds of winning a permit
Flexibility is key if you’re determined to win a permit. Make sure to have a few itineraries and dates in place before it’s your turn to access the permit portal—you can check the availability of permits before your time slot. That way, should your first choice option become unavailable, you can easily pivot to plan B. You also can aim to hike outside of the spring and fall, which are the popular seasons. If you choose this option, realize that conditions can be dangerous, both during the extreme summer heat and icy winter.
If You Didn’t Win the Lottery
If you didn’t win the early-access lottery, you’ll still have the opportunity to snag a permit before the general public, usually around the 20th of the lottery month. You also can obtain a very limited number of last-minute permits at the park’s backcountry information center. If you are flexible and can stay around the park for several days, this option might be beneficial for you. You can find more information on the Grand Canyon Backcountry Permits page under the “Last-Minute Permit for Corridor Campgrounds” header.
Wishing you the best of luck applying for your 2025 backpacking and hiking permits! If you’re looking for additional help obtaining a wilderness permit or planning your outdoor adventure, please reach out! We at GoForth are experts at turning your outdoor dreams into a reality, and we’d love to help curate an unforgettable trip. Click on the button below to learn more about our offerings, and contact us if you’re ready to take the first step toward a life outdoors!
Check out some of our other outdoor advice and education pieces
2025 Lottery Deadlines for Backpacking and Hiking Permits
Backpacking Mistakes I’ve Made Venturing Into the Backcountry
First Time Camping: What You Should Know
How to Hike for Those First Hitting the Trails
Five Premier Camping Destinations Near Los Angeles
you do not select dates when entering the lottery so being flexible does not increase your chances to win the lottery. This article is very confusing.
I’m sorry that you’re confused! Which lottery are you looking at? Different permit lotteries work in different ways.
Some lotteries—like those for Mount Whitney and The Wave—let you select your preferred dates when applying. If you’re flexible and can choose weekdays or shoulder season dates, you’ll have a better chance of winning a permit because those times are less competitive.
Other lotteries—like those for Mount Rainier and Yellowstone—don’t let you pick dates upfront. Instead, you’re assigned a time to access the reservation system, where you then select your campsites. Popular dates (weekends and peak summer) fill up fast, so if your assigned time is later, being flexible with dates will help you find an available permit.
Hope this helps!