As summer approaches, outdoor enthusiasts may find their plans complicated by staffing shortages and potential funding cuts within the U.S. national park system. With increased visitor numbers and evolving access rules, securing the right reservations, permits, and passes is essential—especially in Colorado and neighboring Utah, home to some of the most popular national parks in the country.
While a standard national parks entrance pass ($80 annually, with daily rates varying by park) grants access to most locations, certain high-traffic areas require additional reservations or permits. Here’s a guide to what’s needed to visit six of the region’s most iconic parks.
Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado)
Distance from Denver: 70 miles
Colorado’s largest and busiest national park spans over 265,000 acres.
Reservations Required: Yes, between May 23 and October 13.
- For general access (excluding Bear Lake Road), a timed-entry reservation is needed between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m.
- For Bear Lake Corridor access, reservations are required between 5 a.m. and 6 p.m.
- Entry must occur within a designated two-hour window.
- Reservations are released monthly on the first of the month, with a limited number made available at 7 p.m. the night before a visit.
- Visitors entering on foot or outside restricted hours do not need a reservation.
Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve (Colorado)
Distance from Denver: 226 miles
Known for the tallest dunes in the U.S., this southern Colorado destination also boasts International Dark Sky Park status.
Reservations Required: No, for general entry.
However:
- Backpacking permits are required for overnight stays on the dunes.
- The Piñon Flats Campground is in high demand; reservations open six months in advance at Recreation.gov.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park (Colorado)
Distance from Denver: 262 miles
Often called Colorado’s answer to the Grand Canyon, this park features rock formations nearly 2 billion years old.
Reservations Required: No, for general entry.
However:
- Ongoing road construction may result in delays and reduced parking.
- Wilderness use permits are mandatory for inner canyon activities such as hiking and kayaking.
- North Rim permits are only available in person on a first-come, first-served basis.
- South Rim permits can be reserved online.
Mesa Verde National Park (Colorado)
Distance from Denver: 391 miles
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mesa Verde preserves ancient cliff dwellings built by Ancestral Puebloans.
Reservations Required: No, for park entry.
However:
- Ranger-led tour reservations are required to access most cliff dwellings.
- Tours are available from May 4 to October 19, with booking open 14 days in advance.
- The Step House on Wetherill Mesa is the only dwelling open to self-guided exploration.
Arches National Park (Utah)
Distance from Denver: 350 miles
Home to over 2,000 natural stone arches, this red rock wonderland has seen a 74% rise in visitors over the past decade.
Reservations Required: Yes, between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. from April 1 to July 6 and August 28 to October 31.
- Entry is allowed during a one-hour timed-entry window.
- Reservations are available six months in advance, with additional slots released nightly at 7 p.m.
- Visitors entering outside the specified times or dates, or those holding camping or backcountry permits, do not need a reservation.
Canyonlands National Park (Utah)
Distance from Denver: 363 miles
This expansive high-desert park offers diverse landscapes across four districts.
Reservations Required: No, for general entry.
However:
- Day-use permits are needed for off-road exploration on White Rim, Elephant Hill, Lavender Canyon, and Peekaboo/Horse Canyon roads.
- These permits become available at 8 a.m. the day prior.
- Backcountry travel and river trips also require additional permits.
Plan Ahead to Avoid Disappointment
Given the heightened demand and evolving access systems at many national parks, advance planning is strongly advised. Visitors should confirm requirements on each park’s official website or Recreation.gov and secure any necessary reservations well in advance to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience this summer.
