Backcountry Permit - Capitol Reef National Park

Permits

Capitol Reef National Park

Certain activities inside Capitol Reef National Park require that you obtain a permit.

Backcountry Permits:
A backcountry permit is required for backpacking in Capitol Reef National Park. The permit is free and can be obtained in person at the visitor center during normal business hours. Backcountry permits cannot be obtained via email.

Canyoneering and Rock Climbing Permits:
Beginning January 1, 2020 all technical canyoneering and climbing groups are required to obtain a free day-use permit in person at the visitor center, or online via email. Please review all rules and regulations prior to filling out or requesting a permit. Email care_permits@nps.gov for a canyoneering or climbing permit using the following format:

Subject: Name of canyoneering route/climbing zone and date you will be canyoneering or climbing.

Email Body:
Date of visit:
Canyon route / Climbing zone:
Number of people:
Vehicle location:
Number of motorized vehicles:
Vehicle description(s):

Note: climbing zones can be found on the CRNP Rock Climbing Page.

More information on permits can be found on the CRNP Permits and Reservations Page.

Canyoneering Updates:
For the protection of park resources, canyoneering groups are limited to a maximum of eight people, with some exceptions for certain routes near the Fruita area. Ask at the visitor center for details. Capitol Reef is a clean canyoneering area. Minimum impact techniques that do not damage or destroy rock or other park resources are required:

• Canyoneering groups are limited to 12 persons per group in the following technical canyons: Cassidy Arch Canyon • Na-Gah• Arch Nemesis • Beaver Bay• Old School • Wives: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 & 6.

* The installation of new fixed anchors (bolts, pitons, etc.) is prohibited.

* Bolts may be replaced only if an existing bolt is unsafe.

* The use of power drills is prohibited.

* Where it is necessary to leave or replace existing webbing, the webbing should be black or closely match the color of the surrounding rock.

* Protection may not be placed with the use of a hammer except to replace existing belay and rappel anchors and bolts on existing routes, or for emergency self-rescue.

* Physical alteration of rock faces is prohibited, such as chiseling, glue reinforcement of existing holds, trundling rocks, and gluing of new holds.

* It is prohibited to wrap webbing or rope, or rappel off any arch with an opening greater than three feet.

* The intentional removal of lichen or plants from rock is prohibited. Potential seasonal closures or use limits may be in effect during your visit. Check at the visitor center for current closures or limits.

* Potential seasonal closures or use limits may be in effect during your visit. Check at the visitor center for current closures or limits.