If you’re gearing up for a trip to one of America’s breathtaking national parks in 2025, you’ll want to check whether your destination requires a reservation. In recent years, many popular parks have introduced timed-entry systems, vehicle permits, or hiking lotteries to manage crowds and protect natural resources.
Whether you’re hoping to drive the scenic Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier, catch a sunrise at Haleakalā, or tackle the famous Angels Landing hike in Zion, you may need to secure your spot in advance. Even if you have an annual national parks pass, a separate reservation might still be required.
To help you plan, I’ve outlined which national parks require reservations in 2025, along with key details on when and how to book. By preparing ahead, you can avoid last-minute surprises and ensure a smooth visit to your chosen park.
Planning multiple parks? See our complete US National Parks list and interactive map to explore all 63 parks, download checklists, and plan your trip.
- Arches National Park (Utah)
- Glacier National Park (Montana)
- Yosemite National Park (California)
- Haleakalā National Park (Hawaii)
- Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado)
- Zion National Park (Utah)
- Carlsbad Caverns National Park (New Mexico)
- Shenandoah National Park (Virginia)
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Tennessee and North Carolina)
- Final Tips for Planning Your Visit
- National Parks List, Map, and Complete Guide (All 63 Parks + Downloadable List & Map)
- National Parks Scratch Off Map of United States
Arches National Park (Utah)
From April 1 to July 6 and August 28 to October 31, 2025, you’ll need a timed entry ticket to enter the park between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. Reservations can be made up to six months in advance on Recreation.gov, with a $2 processing fee. No reservations are required from July 7 to August 27, 2025.
Glacier National Park (Montana)
A pilot vehicle reservation system will be in place from June 13 to September 28, 2025, for the west side of Going-to-the-Sun Road and the North Fork area. Reservations are required from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and can be made starting February 12, 2025, via Recreation.gov. The reservation system aims to manage congestion and enhance visitor experience.
Yosemite National Park (California)
Reservations are required to drive into Yosemite on specific dates in February 2025, particularly during weekends and holidays due to the popular Horsetail Fall event. For the most current information on reservation requirements, visit the park’s official website.
Haleakalā National Park (Hawaii)
To experience the sunrise at the summit, you’ll need a reservation for each vehicle entering the park between 3 a.m. and 7 a.m. Reservations can be made up to 60 days in advance on Recreation.gov for a $1 fee. This system helps manage the high demand for sunrise viewing.
Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado)
Starting May 23, 2025, a timed entry reservation system will be implemented. Two types of reservations are available: one for the entire park, including the Bear Lake Road Corridor, and another for the rest of the park, excluding the Bear Lake Road Corridor. Reservations can be made on Recreation.gov, with a $2 processing fee. This system aims to protect park resources and enhance visitor experiences.
Zion National Park (Utah)
To hike the popular Angels Landing trail, you’ll need a permit obtained through a lottery system. It costs $6 to apply, covering up to six people, with an additional $3 per person if selected. This system helps manage trail congestion and preserve the natural environment.
Carlsbad Caverns National Park (New Mexico)
Year-round, timed-entry reservations are required to enter the caverns. Reservations are released 30 days in advance, with a $1 fee on top of the $15 entry fee. This system ensures visitor safety and protects the cave’s delicate ecosystem.
Shenandoah National Park (Virginia)
From March 1 to November 30, 2025, a permit is required to hike Old Rag Mountain. Daily, 800 tickets are available for $2 each, with half released 30 days in advance and the rest five days prior. This helps manage the high volume of hikers and maintain trail conditions.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Tennessee and North Carolina)
Although reservations are not required to enter the park, a parking tag is required for vehicles parked more than 15 minutes. Daily, weekly, and annual tags are available. This initiative supports park maintenance and visitor services.
Note: These tags do not guarantee a parking space but are required for compliance.
Final Tips for Planning Your Visit
For all reservations, visit Recreation.gov. It’s advisable to plan ahead, as reservation availability varies by park and demand is high. Remember, even if you have a national parks pass, you’ll still need to make a reservation if the park requires one. The America the Beautiful Pass covers standard entrance fees but doesn’t include reservation costs. Planning ahead ensures you won’t miss out on exploring these extraordinary national parks in 2025!
National Parks List, Map, and Complete Guide (All 63 Parks + Downloadable List & Map)
Want a FREE complete list and recap of all our US National Parks as well as downloadable maps and other great resources? Check out our US National Parks List and Map guide!
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