Zion Traverse Permits explained
The Traverse requires backcountry camping permits. Here’s how to secure yours:
- Create an account on Recreation.gov..
- Search for Zion National Park Overnight Wilderness Permit
If you’re still planning the wider trip around your Traverse dates, my Zion National Park: Complete Hiking & Planning Guide gives a full overview of the park’s regions, entrances, and best hikes.
- Under Available Permits, click Check Availability.
- Select a starting area — choose La Verkin Creek (the start of the Traverse).
- Choose your starting date (your first night on the trail).
- Select the number of hikers in your group.
- Under your chosen date, select an available campsite.
- Use the NPS Zion Wilderness Map to estimate Day 1 mileage.
- Factor in the time of year — my How to Plan a Safe Zion Traverse Water Strategy guide explains which springs are reliable and where to cache water.
- A home icon indicates pre‑released permits are sold out. These may still be available in person at the Visitor Center the day before/day of your hike (not guaranteed).
- After selecting your desired campsite for night 1, look at the wilderness map again, work out your desired mileage for day 2 and select the most appropriate campground accordingly. Continue this process if you are spending a 3rd/4th night etc. until the end of your trip.
- Pay and reserve the permits.
- Collect your permits from the Visitor Center before your hike, following Recreation.gov instructions.
Zion Traverse Permit FAQs
Do I need a permit for the 3‑day Zion Traverse?
Yes. All overnight trips require a Zion Wilderness Permit, and you must reserve specific campsites or at‑large zones depending on your itinerary.
Which campsites should I book for a 3‑day itinerary?
Most hikers stay near La Verkin Creek on Night 1 and either Wildcat Canyon or the West Rim on Night 2. The best choice depends on your pace, water strategy, and whether you want a shorter or longer final day. The Zion Traverse Guide: Route, Itineraries and Planning Tips compares the most common campsite combinations. For a real‑world example of how the Traverse flows day by day, my Zion Traverse Itinerary: 3 Days to Angel’s Landing shows exactly how these campsite choices play out on the trail.
How competitive are Zion Traverse campsite permits?
Spring and autumn fill fastest, especially West Rim sites. La Verkin Creek and Wildcat Canyon zones are usually easier to secure. Booking right when reservations open gives you the best chance of getting your preferred itinerary.
Can I camp anywhere along the Zion Traverse?
Only certain sections allow at‑large camping. Wildcat Canyon is the main at‑large zone on this itinerary. Other areas require designated sites. The main Traverse Guide outlines which sections are flexible and which are restricted.
Do I need a separate permit for Angel’s Landing?
Not if your Wilderness Permit explicitly includes the West Rim / Angel’s Landing corridor. Some permits allow access; others do not. Always check the wording on your permit before assuming you can climb it. If you want to see what that section of the route actually looks like, my Day 3 write‑up of the Zion Traverse follows the trail past Angel’s Landing and down into Zion Canyon.
How early should I book my Zion Traverse permit?
Reservations open on a rolling schedule on Recreation.gov. . Popular dates can disappear within minutes. If your dates are fixed, book as soon as the window opens.
What happens if the campsite I want is already taken?
You can adjust your itinerary by shifting your first night slightly along La Verkin Creek or using the Wildcat Canyon at‑large zone on Night 2. The 3‑night version offers more flexibility if your preferred sites are unavailable.
Can I change my campsites after booking?
Yes, but only if alternative sites are still available. Changes must be made through Recreation.gov, and fees may apply. It’s easier to adjust early in the season before dates fill.