Backcountry Permits
Colorado Wilderness
& Backcountry Permits 2026
Reservation systems, lottery windows, permit fees, bear canister requirements, and fire permit rules for wilderness areas in Colorado. Colorado has 42 designated wilderness areas managed primarily by the USFS. The Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness uses a lottery for popular trailheads. Most areas use self-issue permits at trailheads or ranger stations.
USDA Forest Service (Rocky Mountain Region)
Lottery System Active
Fire Permit Required
2026 Permit Quick Facts
Verified 2026
Permit Fee
$10
per person
Lottery?
Yes
January–March (Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness)
Self-Issue?
Yes
70% of areas
Wilderness Acres
3.5M
42 designated areas
Permit System
Colorado Permit & Reservation System
Details on how to obtain a wilderness permit in Colorado, including reservation windows, lottery systems, and walk-up availability.
Managing Agency
USDA Forest Service (Rocky Mountain Region)
- Official Site
Reservation System
Recreation.gov
Book online →
Reservation Window
Up to 180 days in advance (approximately 6 months)
Lottery System
Lottery Active
Application window: January–March (Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness)
Daily Quota
Varies by trailhead and area - check permit system for current quotas
Self-Issue Permits
Available
Available at approximately 70% of areas - fill out permit at trailhead kiosk; no advance reservation needed
Popular Areas
Maroon Bells-Snowmass, Weminuche Wilderness, Indian Peaks, Lost Creek, Mount Zirkel
Designated Areas
Permit Fees
Colorado Wilderness Permit Fees
Per Person Fee
$10.00
Fee per person per entry or per night depending on area regulations.
Reservation Window
180d
How far in advance you can book on recreation.gov or equivalent system.
Safety & Leave No Trace
Bear Canister, Fire & Leave No Trace Requirements
Bear Canister
Not Mandated - approved food hang (PCT method, 10/4/4 rule) is generally sufficient. Verify specific area requirements as rules vary.
Fire Permit
Required - obtain a free fire permit before any open flame on federal land outside developed campgrounds.
Check notes below for seasonal restrictions.
Leave No Trace
Leave No Trace principles apply throughout all designated wilderness. Camp 200+ feet from water, trails, and other parties. Pack out all waste.
Colorado Wilderness System
Total Designated Wilderness in Colorado
Total Wilderness Acres
3,500,000
Total acres of federally and state designated wilderness in Colorado.
Designated Areas
42
Number of separately designated wilderness areas in Colorado.
Important Notes
Colorado-Specific Wilderness Rules
Fire permits required May–September in most USFS areas. Bear boxes required in some specific campsites (not statewide canister mandate). High-altitude campsites have Leave No Trace zone requirements for camping below treeline. Always check individual wilderness area regulations as rules vary.
Source: USDA Forest Service (Rocky Mountain Region) (www.fs.usda.gov).
Requirements verified 2026. Permit systems and quotas change frequently - always confirm current availability directly with the managing agency before your trip.