Breaking news! Anyone hiking Angles Landing from April 1st, 2022 on will need to have a permit. That’s right. One of the most famous hikes in the United States will be putting into place a reservation system. Angels Landing trail at Zion National Park will be going to a reservation, permit, and lottery system. On 8/11/2021 at the Springdale Town Council voted to put in place a reservation system for the trail. Citing increased usage and safety as their main reasons. The reservation system will start in January 2022.
The Angels Landing Trail is a 5 mile hike, and considered Zion National Park’s signature hike. Featuring a incredibly steep route with chains to hold on to in some sections. There are often injuries and recue along the trail, with a reported 13 hikers falling to their death since 2000. In high season as many as 2,000 people can be using the trail in a single day.
Angels Landing Reservations, Permits and Lottery Info – Zion National Park
How the Angels Landing Lottery Works
The lottery system will cost $6 for an application fee for up to 6 people. Winners will then be charged an additional $3 per person.
There will also be two lottery systems for Angles Landing. 1) A seasonal lottery you can enter before your planned trip. 2) A day before lottery, where a certain number of passes will be held for a day before drawing.
You can enter the lottery starting January 1st 2022 at Recreation.gov .
Quick Reaction
I think a lot of people had a feeling a reservation system was coming to Zion National Park. With thousands of people using these trails each during the high season, safety is a real concern. That said charging a $6 application fee then charging people that get accepted seems like a bit of a cash grab. Most lottery systems are free to enter and only charge you once you win an entry. And even places that see even more traffic, like the Manitou Incline, has manage to keep reservations free. Charging people just to apply is a slippery slope. And I hope other parks do not follow suit.
This story was originally reported by the St George News, you can find that article by clicking here.