10 National Parks That Require Reservations in 2025 and How to Get Them
Planning a national park trip used to be as easy as hopping in the car and finding a campsite. Now? It’s more like trying to get concert tickets during a presale. With crowds growing and delicate environments under pressure, many of the most popular parks are rolling out reservation systems for 2025.
But don’t panic. With some prep and quick clicks, you can still score your entry without a hitch. Here’s the lowdown on 10 parks that now require timed entries or permits and how to get yours without pulling your hair out.
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite’s reservation system kicks in during peak season, typically from mid-April through October. You’ll need a timed entry pass if you plan to drive between 5 a.m. and 4 p.m. The system opens months in advance on Recreation.gov and sells out within minutes. Be ready with an account, log in before release, and refresh at the top of the hour. If you miss out, check again seven days before your visit, as they release a limited batch, too.
Rocky Mountain National Park
This Colorado favorite splits its reservation system into two: one for the Bear Lake Road Corridor and one for everything else. Reservations usually run from late May to mid-October. You can book a one-day pass for a two-hour entry window. Bear Lake gets snatched up fast, so act quickly. Use the “Modify” feature on Recreation.gov if you want to adjust times without starting over. It’s a lifesaver.
Glacier National Park
Montana’s Glacier National Park requires vehicle reservations for the west side of Going-to-the-Sun Road and North Fork from June 13 to September 28, between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m. A $2 reservation fee is charged in addition to the park entrance fee. Reservations are open four months before, and some next-day tickets are available.
Arches National Park
From April to October, Arches enforces a timed entry system from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Reservations open three months in advance and often vanish quickly. If you can’t grab one, consider entering before or after the time window. The park is surreal in the early morning and cooler, making it a solid alternative. Keep checking back; cancellations pop up often and can be rebooked instantly.
Zion National Park
Zion doesn’t require entry reservations, but hiking Angels Landing does. This trail needs a permit, and it’s issued through a seasonal lottery. Apply on Recreation.gov months in advance, and check for day-before lotteries if you miss out. Make sure everyone in your group applies separately to boost your odds. If you win, don’t forget to carry ID; the rangers check.
Mount Rainier National Park
For 2025, Mount Rainier is rolling out a pilot timed entry system for Paradise and Sunrise. It’ll likely run during the summer months. Details are finalized, but we expect timed slots to be released in the spring. You’ll still need the usual entrance fee or pass on top of the reservation. Keep an eye on the park’s site for updates and booking links once they go live.
Haleakalā National Park
If sunrise at the summit is on your list, you’ll need a reservation. These can be made up to 60 days in advance for the 3 a.m. to 7 a.m. slot. It’s a short window, but the views are worth the early alarm. Reservations go fast, especially on weekends, so plan your morning and caffeine fix accordingly. No pass is needed outside those hours, though the summit road can be just as striking later in the day.
Acadia National Park
Acadia is located in Maine and requires vehicle reservations to drive Cadillac Summit Road from May 21 to October 26. Reservations cost $6 per vehicle and can be booked up to two days in advance. This system helps manage traffic to the park’s highest peak. In 2021, 53% of respondents were first-time visitors to Cadillac Mountain, and 66% had never been in a U.S. National Park managed access system (reservation system) before their visit.
Shenandoah National Park
Old Rag Mountain requires a day-use ticket for hikers from March to November. It’s a crowd-control effort, and the tickets are separate from your park entry fee. You can reserve them up to 30 days in advance. The system helps reduce congestion, but don’t expect solitude; Old Rag is still popular. Arrive early and pace yourself. The trail’s no joke, especially in the summer heat.
Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree doesn’t require a reservation to enter the park, but you’ll need to reserve your campsite ahead of time if you’re visiting in spring or fall. Campgrounds fill up fast during these seasons. Use Recreation.gov or consider some BLM land nearby if everything’s booked. Arrive early, even with a reservation. Some campgrounds don’t assign specific sites, and it’s first come, first set-up.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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