Backcountry Permits
Utah Wilderness
& Backcountry Permits 2026
Reservation systems, lottery windows, permit fees, bear canister requirements, and fire permit rules for wilderness areas in Utah. Utah wilderness includes National Park backcountry (Zion, Bryce, Arches, Canyonlands) and BLM canyon country. Zion Narrows and Coyote Gulch require permits during peak season. Lottery systems apply for some slot canyon routes.
NPS / BLM (multiple agencies)
Lottery System Active
Fire Permit Required
2026 Permit Quick Facts
Verified 2026
Permit Fee
$8
per person
Lottery?
Yes
May 1 – August 31 (Zion Narrows, Coyote Gulch peak season)
Self-Issue?
Yes
50% of areas
Wilderness Acres
1.1M
37 designated areas
Permit System
Utah Permit & Reservation System
Details on how to obtain a wilderness permit in Utah, including reservation windows, lottery systems, and walk-up availability.
Managing Agency
NPS / BLM (multiple agencies)
— 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: May 1 – August 31 (Zion Narrows, Coyote Gulch peak season)
Daily Quota
Varies by trailhead and area — check permit system for current quotas
Self-Issue Permits
Available
Available at approximately 50% of areas — fill out permit at trailhead kiosk; no advance reservation needed
Popular Areas
Zion Narrows, Coyote Gulch (Grand Staircase), Dark Angel (Arches), Canyonlands Backcountry, Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs
Designated Areas
Permit Fees
Utah Wilderness Permit Fees
Per Person Fee
$8.00
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.
Utah Wilderness System
Total Designated Wilderness in Utah
Total Wilderness Acres
1,100,000
Total acres of federally and state designated wilderness in Utah.
Designated Areas
37
Number of separately designated wilderness areas in Utah.
Important Notes
Utah-Specific Wilderness Rules
Bear canisters not generally required in Utah — food hangs are sufficient in most areas. Fire permits required during dry season (typically May–September) in BLM and USFS areas. Flash flood risk is high in slot canyons — always check weather forecasts for the entire drainage before entering Zion Narrows or Paria Canyon.
Source: NPS / BLM (multiple agencies) (www.nps.gov).
Requirements verified 2026. Permit systems and quotas change frequently — always confirm current availability directly with the managing agency before your trip.