As more people look for outdoor adventures, many national parks are starting to use reservation systems to control crowds and protect nature.
In this article, we will explore which national parks require reservations and share useful tips for planning your next visit. We’ve put together a list by researching different U.S. national parks and their reservation rules during busy times. We evaluated aspects like reservation types, effective dates, and costs to ensure clarity and accuracy.
By planning in advance, you’ll secure your spot at these stunning locations without the hassle of large crowds.
Acadia National Park
Situated in Maine, it is celebrated for its stunning coastal scenery. Acadia is home to Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the East Coast. The mountain offers spectacular sunrise views that attract a high volume of visitors. The park has implemented a vehicle reservation system for Cadillac Summit Road.
- Effective Dates: May 22 – October 27.
- Reservation Timing:
- Reservations can be made up to 90 days in advance of your planned visit.
- Reservation are also offered 2 days in advance at 10 a.m.
- Cost: Cost: The reservation fee is $6 per vehicle on top of the $35 standard vehicle entry fee, which is valid for seven days.
- Reservation Link: Cadillac Summit Road Vehicle Reservations
Arches National Park
Located in Utah, it is known for its over 2,000 natural stone arches and stunning red rock landscapes. It is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers. Since April 1, 2024, the park has implemented a timed entry reservation system. Before this system, there was no assurance of park access during peak season.
- Effective Dates: April 1 – October 31.
- Reservation Timing:
- Reservations can be made up to 3 months in advance of your planned visit.
- Reservation are also offered the day before at 7 pm MDT.
- Cost: non-refundable $2 processing fee in addition to the $30 park vehicle entrance fee.
- Reservation Link: Arches National Park Timed Entry
Glacier National Park
Located in Montana at the border with Canada, it is home to over 26 glaciers, remnants of the last Ice Age. Going-to-the-Sun Road is one of the most iconic scenic drives in the park. This historic road offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and glacial lakes. It is also home to abundant wildlife, including deer, mountain goats, and even bears. A vehicle reservation system has been set to help reduce congestion and environmental impact.
- Effective Dates:
- May 24 – September 2 for the west side of Going-to-the-Sun Road and North Fork.
- July 1 – September 8 for Many Glacier
- Reservation Timing:
- Reservations can be made up to 120 days in advance.
- Reservation are also offered the day before at 7 p.m. MDT.
- Cost: $2 processing fee on top of the 35$ standard vehicle entry fee, which is valid for 7 days.
- Reservation Link: Glacier National Park Vehicle Reservations.
Great Smokey Mountains National Park
Is at the border of North Carolina and Tennessee. It showcases beautiful landscapes characterized by ancient mountains, rich forests, and abundant wildlife. The park has implemented a reservation system primarily for back-country camping. As of March 1, 2023 visitors parking for more than 15 minutes in the park require a parking tag.
- Cost: parking tags are $5 daily, $15 weekly, and $40 annually.
- Parking Tag Link: Great Smoky Mountains Fees & Passes
Haleakalā National Park
Located on the Hawaiian island of Maui, it is known for its stunning volcanic landscapes and the massive Haleakalā Crater. The Haleakalā Summit provides an amazing spot to see sunrises that light up the Hawaiian Islands’ landscape. Because the sunrise viewing is so popular, visitors must make a reservation.
- Effective Dates: year-round from 3 a.m. to 7 a.m.
- Reservation Timing:
- Reservations can be made up to 60 days in advance.
- Reservation are also offered 2 days in advance at 7 a.m. HST.
- Cost: $1 processing fee on top of the $15 standard pedestrian entry fee ($30 for vehicles) which is valid for 7 days.
- Reservation Link: Haleakala National Park Summit Sunrise Reservations
Mount Rainier National Park
Located 60 miles from Seattle, it is an ideal day trip to experience stunning natural beauty. The Paradise area is the most visited part of the park during the summer. It offers outstanding views of Mount Rainier and breathtaking wildflower meadows. The Sunrise area is the highest point in the park and provides a dozen hikes with panoramic views. Due to its popularity, the park is requiring timed entry reservation for both of these areas.
- Effective Dates:
- May 24 – September 2 for the Paradise Corridor
- July 4 – September 2 for the Sunrise Corridor
- Reservation Timing:
- Reservations can be made up to 90 days in advance.
- Reservation are also offered the day before at 7 pm PT.
- Cost: $2 processing fee on top of the $30 standard vehicle entrance fee which is valid for 7 days.
- Reservation Link: Mount Rainier National Park Timed Entry Reservations
Rocky Mountain National Park
Located about 70 miles northwest of Denver, Colorado. Its closeness to major ski resorts makes it a great option for anyone looking to enjoy winter sports along with stunning mountain views. Bear Lake is a popular spot for visitors due to its easy access, and wildflowers bloom in summer. The lake sits at 10,000 feet and serves as a gateway to many hiking trails. The park has introduced a timed entry reservation system to limit crows. A Timed Entry + reservation is needed for access to the Bear Lake Corridor during peak hours.
- Effective Date:
- May 24 – October 14 for the entire Park
- May 24 – October 20 for Bear Lake Road
- Reservation Timing:
- Reservations can be made up to 60 days in advance. Reservations are released on the 1st of the month.
- Reservation are also offered the day before at 7 p.m. MDT.
- Cost: $2 processing fee on top of the $30 standard vehicle entrance fee which is valid for 1 day.
- Reservation Links: Rocky Mountain National Park Timed Entry
Shenandoah National Park
Located 75 miles from Washington, D.C., it attracts over a million visitors annually. October is the peak season of the park, as the oaks and maples transform into vibrant colors. Old Rag Mountain trail is one of the park’s most famous and popular hikes. The trail features a challenging rock scramble with 360-degree views from the summit. Beginning March 1, 2024, visitors need an Old Rag Day-Use Ticket to access the trail.
- Effective Date: March 1 – November 30 for Old Rag trail
- Reservation Timing:
- Reservations can be made up to 30 days in advance.
- Reservations are also offered 5 days in advance.
- Cost: $2 processing fee on top of the $30 standard Vehicle Entrance fee which is valid for 7 days.
- Reservation Links: Old Rag Day-Use Ticket
Yosemite National Park
The park is renowned for its granite cliffs, waterfalls, and giant sequoias. The park is a popular destination for Bay Area residents seeking outdoor adventures. One of the park’s most famous events is the Firefall, which takes place every February. During this stunning phenomenon, the setting sun lights up the water of Horsetail Fall, making it look like glowing lava is flowing down the cliff. Due to its popularity, the park has implemented a timed entry reservation system.
- Effective Date: A reservation is required for certain days of the week if driving into the park. Reservations are required from:
- April 13–June 30 (only required on weekends and holidays)
- July 1–August 16 peak season (reservations required every day)
- August 17–October 13 (only required on weekends and holidays)
- Reservation Timing:
- Reservations can be made starting on January 5.
- Reservations are also offered 7 days in advance at 8 am PT.
- Cost: $2 processing fee on top of the 35$ Standard Vehicle Entry fee which is valid for 3 days.
- Reservation Links: Yosemite National Park Ticketed Entry
Zion National Park
Located in Utah, it is known for its canyon views, sandstone cliffs, and diverse wildlife. Angels Landing is the most iconic hike in the park, with panoramic views of Zion Canyon from the summit. The hike features a grueling ascent with steep drop-offs and narrow passageways. Due to the poplarity of Angels Landing the park has implemented a lottery timed entry permit.
- Effective Date: year-round
- Reservation Timing:
- Reservations are available 2 months in advance for the Seasonal Lottery (e.g. Spring: March 1 – May 31).
- Reservations are also offered through the day-before Lottery between 12 a.m. and 3 p.m. MT.
- Cost: $6 to apply for the permit, plus $3 per registered person.
- Reservation Links: Angels Landing Lottery Entry Permit (select desired season)
Planning a trip to these parks is important for enjoying these beautiful places and helping to protect them. Be sure to check the details for each park and book your reservations early to have a smooth and fun experience.
