Permits distribute use so that impact is not disproportionate in popular areas, and thus they provide backcountry users with an opportunity for increased solitude. You do not need a backcountry use permit for day hiking. You can reserve a specific backcountry campsite for one to three specific nights up to 30 days in advance under the permit system. You can do this in person, by telephone, or by mail. The permit itself must be picked up in person no earlier than 24 hours before the beginning of the trip.
Permits are limited to groups of eight or fewer persons.
Write or call the Backcountry Office between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. Competition increases for use of trail shelters along popular trails during peak season. But you can pick and choose from among many uncrowded trails that offer trailside campsites. All water obtained in the backcountry should be boiled or chemically treated. Work Outdoors at GORP Jobs Click Here.