Hiking Permits Booking Hack
Are you tired of missing out on those bucket list hikes due to a competitive permit system? Well, I've got a trick that will increase your chances of snagging those coveted permits, even at the last minute.
- How to Score a Sold-Out Permit
- What Really Happens With Your Fees
First, check the permit page for your desired hike. Some hikes operate on a lottery system, and any unclaimed permits are re-released at the end of the lottery period. So, mark your calendars for that day, as it could be your second chance at securing a permit.
Let's say you've tried the "re-release" trick, but luck hasn't been on your side. There's still a chance. Those permits go back for sale on the website if someone cancels their reservation. The challenge, however, lies in constantly refreshing the reservation page to catch a cancellation. But don't worry; I have a solution for you.
The solution is a service called Outdoor Status. Outdoor Status automates the process by checking for permits every 30 minutes, sparing you from the tedious manual page refreshing. When a permit opens up, you get a text message with a link to the permit page to book it quickly.
There is a fee to use Outdoor Status, but if you want the permit, it's just what you must do unless you have time to sit on the page and keep refreshing. I've used Outdoor Status for the last year, and it's snagged me some good permits. I recommend it.
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Hi, I'm Cris Hazzard, aka Hiking Guy, a professional outdoors guide, hiking expert, and author based in Southern California. I created this website to share all the great hikes I do with everyone else out there. This site is different because it gives detailed directions that even the beginning hiker can follow. I also share what hiking gear works and doesn't so you don't waste money. I don't do sponsored or promoted content; I share only the gear recommendations, hikes, and tips that I would with my family and friends. If you like the website and YouTube channel, please support these free guides (I couldn't do it without folks like you!). You can stay up to date with my new guides by following me on YouTube, Instagram, or by subscribing to my monthly newsletter.