SEKI Wilderness Permit — Mineral King — Tar Gap
Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks · California
Wilderness permit for Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks via Mineral King — Tar Gap.
Get an alert when Tar Gap opens on your dates.
70% of the openings our scanner caught on Tar Gap were gone within 10 minutes.
Tar Gap reservation dates
- max group size
- 15people
How to get a Tar Gap permit
As of September 2026, Tar Gap in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, California requires a permit issued via reservation. Tar Gap rates 5/10 on PermitSnag's demand index. Cancelled Tar Gap permits are re-released on the booking system, and PermitSnag alerts you the moment one opens.
- Type
- Overnight
- Location
- CA
Step 1: Create a National Park Service account
Sign up at National Park Service if you don't have an account. Have your payment info ready.
Step 2: Know the release schedule
Permits release on a rolling basis. Check the release time for your dates.
Step 3: Be ready when permits drop
Log in a few minutes early. Have your dates, group size, and payment ready to go.
Step 4: Monitor for cancellations
If your dates are sold out, people cancel all the time. Set up PermitSnag alerts to catch openings instantly.
More on Tar Gap: Live availability activityWhen Tar Gap permits open up
When to hike Tar Gap
Weather Forecast
Trailhead (5,000 ft)
Backcountry Tips
- Day 4: Extreme heat (96°F). Carry extra water, start at dawn.
- Day 5: Extreme heat (96°F). Carry extra water, start at dawn.
- Day 6: Extreme heat (99°F). Carry extra water, start at dawn.
Today
76°
58°
Tue
81°
60°
Wed
91°
67°
Thu
96°
71°
Fri
96°
73°
Sat
99°
74°
Sun
99°
75°
Tar Gap rules, gear and safety
Safety & planning
Emergency Info
Emergency contacts, ranger station locations, and satellite communicator tips for Tar Gap.
Food Storage
Bear canister requirements, approved container lists, and rental locations for this permit.
Gear Checklist: Required and recommended gear for Tar Gap · Shuttle Services: Trailhead transportation options · Guide Services: Experienced wilderness guides
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Tar Gap FAQ
How do I get a Tar Gap permit?
PermitSnag alerts you the moment a Tar Gap cancellation opens, so you can book it before anyone else. Tar Gap permits use a reservation system.
When is the best time to visit Tar Gap?
Season dates are on the agency's page. Weekdays have better availability than weekends.
How competitive is the Tar Gap permit?
This permit has a demand score of 5/10, making it moderately competitive.
What if I can't get a Tar Gap permit?
Cancellations happen daily. Set up alerts with PermitSnag to get notified the moment a spot opens up. Pro and $19 single-permit alerts are checked about every minute, 24/7; free accounts are checked hourly.
Tar Gap trail conditions and trip reports
Trail Conditions
No active conditions reported
Sign in to report trail conditions.
Questions
No questions yet
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Trip Reports
Write ReportAlternatives to a Tar Gap permit
Where to stay near Tar Gap
- Potwisha CampgroundSequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
- Buckeye Flat CampgroundSequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
- Atwell Mill CampgroundSequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
- All California campgrounds
Plan the full trip, not just the permit
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