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Capitol Reef — Red Slide wilderness permit area in Capitol Reef National Park - backcountry hiking destination
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Capitol Reef — Red Slide Permit

Capitol Reef National Park · Utah

Backcountry permit for Red Slide in Capitol Reef National Park.

Plan your Capitol Reef National Park trip here, then get your permit from the agency.

Walk-up permit

How to get Red Slide

Pick up this free permit in person at the visitor center during normal business hours.

Official permit page

Planning another trip? See the permits we alert on.

How to get a Red Slide permit

Type
Overnight
Location
UT

How this permit is issued

Official permit page →
  1. Step 1: How this permit is issued

    Pick up this free permit in person at the visitor center during normal business hours.

  2. Step 2: Check the agency page before you go

    Fees, hours and closures change. Confirm the current process at National Park Service before your trip.

  3. Step 3: Have backup plans

    Office hours move, ground closes, and popular trailheads get busy. Know an alternative route or date before you drive out.

Learn more:

More on Red Slide: Live availability activity

When to hike Red Slide

Weather Forecast

Trailhead (5,000 ft)

⚠️

Backcountry Tips

  • Today: 85% chance of precipitation. Pack rain gear.

Today

🌧️

49°

43°

85%

Wed

☁️

65°

46°

Thu

☀️

69°

52°

Fri

☀️

70°

52°

Sat

☁️

70°

54°

Sun

☁️

70°

55°

Mon

🌧️

64°

52°

View full NWS forecast →Mountain weather changes rapidly. This forecast is a guide—always be prepared for worse conditions.

Red Slide rules, gear and safety

Safety & planning

Emergency Info

Emergency contacts, ranger station locations, and satellite communicator tips for Red Slide.

Food Storage

Bear canister requirements, approved container lists, and rental locations for this permit.

Gear Checklist: Required and recommended gear for Red Slide · Shuttle Services: Trailhead transportation options · Guide Services: Experienced wilderness guides

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Red Slide FAQ

How do I get a Red Slide permit?

Red Slide is issued directly by the agency. Pick up this free permit in person at the visitor center during normal business hours. Bring backup dates and check their page for the current process.

When is the best time to visit Red Slide?

Season dates are on the agency's page. Weekdays have better availability than weekends.

How competitive is the Red Slide permit?

This permit has a demand score of 5/10, making it moderately competitive.

What if I can't get a Red Slide permit?

The agency awards this permit directly. Bring backup dates and check the official page for the current process and any closures.

Red Slide trail conditions and trip reports

Trail Conditions

No active conditions reported

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Questions

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Trip Reports

Write Report

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Write the First Report

Alternatives to a Red Slide permit

Where to stay near Red Slide

Plan the full trip, not just the permit

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