Ross Lake Permit
North Cascades National Park · Washington
Remote lake with boat-in camping.
Get an alert when a night opens on your Ross Lake dates.
70% of the openings our scanner caught on Ross Lake were gone within 10 minutes.
Ross Lake reservation dates
- max group size
- 12people
How to get a Ross Lake permit
As of September 2026, Ross Lake in North Cascades National Park, Washington requires a permit issued via first-come, first-served. Ross Lake rates 5/10 on PermitSnag's demand index. Cancelled Ross Lake permits are re-released on the booking system, and PermitSnag alerts you the moment one opens.
- Type
- Overnight
- Location
- WA
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 Ross Lake: Live availability activityWhen Ross Lake permits open up
When to hike Ross Lake
Weather Forecast
Trailhead (5,000 ft)
Backcountry Tips
- Tomorrow: 100% chance of precipitation. Pack rain gear.
Today
53°
39°
47%
Tue
47°
40°
100%
Wed
52°
37°
Thu
61°
36°
34%
Fri
60°
43°
35%
Sat
67°
42°
Sun
70°
46°
Ross Lake rules, gear and safety
Safety & planning
Emergency Info
Emergency contacts, ranger station locations, and satellite communicator tips for Ross Lake.
Food Storage
Bear canister requirements, approved container lists, and rental locations for this permit.
Gear Checklist: Required and recommended gear for Ross Lake · Shuttle Services: Trailhead transportation options · Guide Services: Experienced wilderness guides
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Ross Lake FAQ
How do I get a Ross Lake permit?
PermitSnag alerts you the moment a Ross Lake cancellation opens, so you can book it before anyone else. Ross Lake permits use a first-come, first-served system.
When is the best time to visit Ross Lake?
Season dates are on the agency's page. Weekdays have better availability than weekends.
How competitive is the Ross Lake permit?
This permit has a demand score of 5/10, making it moderately competitive.
What if I can't get a Ross Lake 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.
Ross Lake 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 Ross Lake permit
Where to stay near Ross Lake
- Gorge Lake CampgroundNorth Cascades National Park
- Newhalem Creek CampgroundNorth Cascades National Park
- Lower Goodell Group CampgroundNorth Cascades National Park
- All Washington campgrounds
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