As winter lingers, thoughts of dry trails and alpine nights beckon to hikers. To embark on adventures to the most sought-after destinations in 2024, meticulous planning is essential. Backpacking permit lotteries open as early as January, and the narrow window for securing your ticket to backcountry bliss can close swiftly. Discover how to ensure your chance to explore these popular hiking spots in 2024.
1. Angels Landing, Zion National Park
To witness the iconic views from Angels Landing above Zion Canyon, a permit is a must. The seasonal lottery on recreation.gov, with four drawings per year, employs a ranked choice system. Applications for spring hikes close on January 20, while the summer lottery opens on April 1. Fall hike lottery applications start on July 1.
Missed the Permit? Access Scout Lookout, below Angels Landing, without a permit, or explore other non-permitted hikes within Zion.
2. “The Wave,” Arizona and Utah
For day-use access to the Instagram-worthy Wave in Coyote Buttes North, a $9 permit is required. Apply four months in advance on recreation.gov. Only one application per lottery is allowed, and a maximum of 64 permits are granted each day.
Missed the Permit? Explore scenic trails in Vermilion Cliffs National Monument without paperwork.
3. Boundary Waters Canoe Area
Minnesota’s crown jewel mandates permits year-round for overnight hiking and paddling. The quota system operates on a first-come, first-served basis. From May to September, obtain quota permits through recreation.gov, while free day use permits are available year-round.
Missed the Permit? Opt for the Timber-Frear canoe route in Superior National Forest for a popular paddling alternative.
4. Kalalau Trail, Hawaii
This 11-mile trail along Kauai’s north shore demands a permit available 90 days in advance. Only 60 hikers are allowed at a time.
Missed the Permit? Enjoy a permit-free 4-mile out-and-back hike within the first two miles of the trail.
5. Lost Coast, King Range Wilderness, California
For California’s best beach hiking, plan ahead. Permits are required year-round, with a quota system from May 15 to September 15.
Missed the Permit? Explore the Oregon Coast Trail, offering 400 miles of permit-free backpacking.
6. Mt. Whitney, California
The trail to the highest point in the Lower 48 requires a permit obtained through a lottery from February 1 to March 1.
Missed the Permit? Try nearby high-altitude hikes like White Mountain Peak or Split Mountain.
7. Linville Gorge Wilderness, North Carolina
Permits for overnight stays on weekends from May to October are limited and available through recreation.gov.
Missed the Permit? Camp on Table Rock without a permit or hike the permit-free 30-mile Art Loeb trail.
8. Half Dome Cables, Yosemite
For the famous summit, a permit for the final cable ascent is needed. The preseason lottery occurs in March.
Missed the Permit? Participate in daily lotteries between May 22 and October 13, or enjoy the base hike without a permit.
Plan wisely, secure your permits, and embark on unforgettable hiking adventures in 2024!