7 Once-in-a-Lifetime National Park Experiences Everyone’s Hoping to Win
Ever dreamt of trekking through a practically untouched wilderness or stargazing in areas so remote you are literally one of 20 people in the entire area? Believe it or not, some of the most incredible national park experiences are so popular that you’ll need a bit of luck to score a spot.
Many of these sought-after adventures are allocated through national park lotteries. For instance, I’ve put in an in-person application at the Wave twice and failed, and I have heard of people waiting a decade for a Colorado River permit.
But don’t let that stop you! Winning a spot can be half the fun and makes the experience all the more cherished. Here’s a look at seven bucket-list national park experiences that require a lottery entry—let the odds be ever in your favor!
1. Coyote Buttes North (The Wave), Arizona
Famous for: Ultra smooth sandstone layers on colorful red rock formations
Coyote Buttes North, famously known as “The Wave,” is a mesmerizing sandstone rock formation in the Arizona wilderness you’ve probably seen on social media before. Imagine stepping into a natural piece of art with smooth, wave-like sandstone surfaces with striking shades of red, pink, and orange.
Lottery System: The hike itself is an adventure through unspoiled desert landscapes and canyons. However, due to its popularity and fragility, only a maximum of 64 people are allowed to enter this area daily. The US Bureau of Land Management conducts a daily lottery online, allowing 48 individuals or 12 groups (whichever limit is met first). A separate Daily Lottery also selects 16 individuals or 4 groups (whichever is reached first).
I attempted the in-person lottery twice and failed, and I spoke with some people who have tried upwards of 10 times!
2. Half Dome Cables Route, California
Famous for: A challenging hike to the granite peak of Half Dome in Yosemite National Park
Hiking the Half Dome Cables Route in Yosemite National Park is a 16.5 mile round trip hike through some of the park’s most breathtaking views. The hike culminates with a steep ascent up the cables to the top of Half Dome. Requiring both physical and mental stamina, the long switchbacks and steep inclines to the top are not for the faint of heart.
Lottery System: Due to safety concerns and preservation, a maximum of 300 hikers are allowed on this route daily. A preseason permit lottery is held in March every year for permits during the summer months (May through October), and daily lotteries are held every day. Only 225 permits are available per day through the lottery system, with an additional 75 permits available for backpackers.
3. Colorado River in the Grand Canyon, Arizona
Famous for: A once-in-a-lifetime rafting trip through the iconic Grand Canyon and some of the hardest rapids in the world
The Colorado River in the Grand Canyon is a famous 277-mile stretch of river with stupendous canyon views, exhilarating level V whitewater rapids, and camping along the banks. A rafting trip through the Grand Canyon is a bucket list experience for many, and the limited number of permits issued only makes it more special.
The film “Into the Wild” notoriously has a scene in which the main character disregards the rules after hearing about the wait times for this permit. I’ve heard of some waiting a decade to finally secure a spot.
Lottery System: The National Park Service has an annual weighted lottery system that closes at the end of February for the following year’s trips. If you don’t get lucky in the initial lottery, a secondary lottery is also held for leftover permits.
There are different pools for commercial, private, and non-commercial groups, and only around 500 permits are issued annually.
Workaround Option: Although it costs a pretty penny, if you’re not able to secure a permit or lack the experience to run your own trip, you can still experience this trip by joining a guided river tour.
4. Havasu Falls, Arizona
Famous for: A turquoise waterfall oasis in the middle of the red desert
Havasu Falls, located on the Havasupai Reservation within the Grand Canyon, is a highly coveted destination for its 100-foot crystal-clear waterfalls that flow into a series of pools with vibrant blue-green water. The challenging hike to Havasu Falls covers 10 miles one way of rugged desert terrain, with most hikers opting for a multi-day camping trip.
Lottery System: To control visitor numbers and preserve the fragile environment, the Havasupai Reservation conducts an annual lottery for permits. With only 100 permits available per day, reservations open on February 1 each year for the upcoming year and can sell out within minutes. This is a highly competitive process, so be prepared to apply multiple times before being successful.
📖 Read Also: One Day in Grand Canyon South Rim: First-Timers Itinerary
5. Mount Whitney Trail Permits, California
Famous for: The highest peak in the contiguous United States with stunning views of the Sierra Nevada mountain range
Mount Whitney, reaching 14,505 feet, is the highest peak in the contiguous US and a notable achievement for those who tackle its demanding summit. Starting from Whitney Portal and ending in Sequoia National Park, this trail tests adventurers with its altitude and length through obstacles like the infamous “97 Switchbacks.” This summit is certainly a bucket list item for many outdoor enthusiasts.
Lottery System: A permit is required for all hikers attempting the Mount Whitney Trail; however, from November to April, the trail is uncapped with a valid wilderness permit. During peak months (May through October), permits are distributed through a competitive lottery system, with 100 day hikers and 60 overnight hikers allowed on the trail each day. The lottery application period is in February, so plan ahead if you want to tackle this iconic summit.
6. Zion National Park Subway, Utah
Famous for: Tunnel-like slot canyon hike with natural pools in Zion National Park
Most people may know Zion for its scenic roads, Angel’s Landing, or the Narrows, but the Subway is a lesser-known, more technical favorite within the park. This 9-mile roundtrip hike takes you through a series of slot canyons, slide rock pools, and waterfalls, requiring some rappelling and swimming to reach the end. But getting to that iconic subway-shaped tunnel makes it totally worth it.
Lottery System: There are two routes to access the Subway: the Left Fork (Subway) Bottom-Up Hiking Route or the Left Fork (Subway) Top-Down Canyoneering Route. Both require a permit through a lottery system, but the Top-Down route is more technical and competitive.
There are two ways to obtain a permit for the Subway hike: through an advance lottery system or by entering a last-minute drawing two days before your desired date. The advance lottery runs four months in advance. This is a highly competitive process, with only 80 permits available per day, and you can choose up to 4 different dates.
📖 Read Also: One Day in Zion National Park Itinerary for Adventurers
7. Enchantment Lakes, Washington
Famous for: Freshwater lakes and alpine views of the Cascade Mountains
Although on US Forest Service Lands, the Enchantment Lakes in Washington’s Alpine Lakes Wilderness is a highly sought-after destination for hikers and backpackers. The route takes you through pristine glacier-fed lakes and towering peaks landscapes in the Pacific Northwest.
Lottery System: All hikers entering the Enchantment Lakes area between May 15 and October 31 must obtain a permit. Applying for a permit can be complicated due to the various available zones. You should focus on three zones: Colchuck, Core Enchantments, and Snow. The Core Enchantments zone is the most desired as it allows you to camp in any zone.
Permit Limitations Per Day:
- Core Enchantments Zone: 24 people per day (cannot increase group size after lottery)
- Colchuck Lake Zone: three groups per day
- Stuart Lake Zone: four groups per day
- Snow Lakes Zone: five groups per day
- Eightmile/Caroline Zone: three groups per day
Each zone reserves one permit for walk-ins, except on Sundays.
📖 Read Also: Perfect One Day in North Cascades National Park Itinerary
Final Thoughts: National Park lotteries
While navigating the numerous lottery systems and permit requirements can seem daunting, the effort to experience these highly competitive experiences is undoubtedly worth it. Although these are some of the best, many others, like the timed entry system in Arches National Park, sometimes require permits to even enter.
If you’re up for a challenge, take a look at our guide to some of the toughest hikes in the western USA.
Before you Close That Tab…Looking for More Inspiration?
- The Top 8 Hardest Hikes in US National Parks and Why They’re Worth It
- 11 Dreamy Lakes in West USA That Will Take Your Breath Away
- 9 Overrated Tourist Traps in the US to Steer Clear of During Your Next Road Trip
Catherine, a seasoned travel writer, has lived in 4 different states and explored 36 states and 28 national parks. After spending two years embracing van life, she's now dedicated to sharing her vast knowledge of day trips across America. Catherine's other works has been referenced in major publications like MSN, Self, and TripSavvy.
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