Walk-Up8/10
Coyote Gulch
One of the most spectacular canyon backpacking routes in Utah. Free permit requi...
View Coyote Gulch Overnight Permit permit details and availability
Walk-UpOvernightModerate Demand
Escalante River Corridor Permit
Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
Multi-day river corridor backpacking.
“Experience Escalante River in GSENM.”
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Escalante River Quick Facts
Permit RequiredYes
Booking MethodWalk-Up
Demand LevelModerate5/10
Key Information
Permit Details
TypeOvernight
Booking MethodWalk-Up
Demand Level5/10
LocationUT
How to Get This Permit
1
Check availability requirements
Walk-up permits are issued on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early, especially on weekends.
2
Visit the ranger station
Go to the designated permit office or ranger station. Bring ID and know your planned itinerary.
3
Have backup plans
Popular trailheads may be full. Know alternative routes or dates in case your first choice is unavailable.
When to Go
Peak: Summer monthsShoulder: Spring and Fall
Conditions
Summer offers the most reliable conditions for most wilderness areas.
Crowd Level
ModerateAdvantages
- +Longest days
- +Warmest temperatures
- +Reliable trail conditions
Challenges
- !Peak demand for permits
- !Book accommodations early
- !Weather varies
Difficulty Assessment
Physical Demand1/5
Fitness and endurance required
Technical Skill1/5
Climbing, scrambling, or specialized skills
Exposure Risk1/5
Steep dropoffs and fall potential
Navigation1/5
Route finding and trail clarity
Commitment3/5
Difficulty of bailing out mid-route
Best For
Hikers of moderate fitness willing to put in the effort.
Recommended Experience
Basic hiking experience. Start with shorter trails if new to hiking.
The Experience
Why It Matters
Escalante River in GSENM offers a wilderness experience protected by the permit system. Quotas help maintain trail conditions and ensure visitors can enjoy the natural setting without overcrowding.
Safety & Planning
🚨
Emergency Info
Download the PermitSnag app for offline access to emergency contacts, ranger station locations, and satellite communicator tips for Escalante River.
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🐻
Food Storage
Check bear canister requirements, approved container lists, and rental locations in the PermitSnag app.
Want to check food storage requirements?Get the app →
Escalante River FAQ
How do I get a Escalante River permit?
Escalante River permits are obtained through a walk-up system. Use PermitSnag to track availability and get notified when cancellations occur.
When is the best time to visit Escalante River?
Check with the managing agency for current season dates. Weekdays generally have better availability than weekends.
How competitive is the Escalante River permit?
This permit has a demand score of 5/10, making it moderately competitive.
What if I can't get a Escalante River permit?
Cancellations happen daily. Set up alerts with PermitSnag to get notified the moment a spot opens up. We check availability every few minutes, 24/7.
Photography Guide
Golden Hour
Golden hour at Escalante River offers the best photography conditions with warm, directional light.
Best Light
Early morning typically provides the clearest conditions and best light quality.
Beat the Crowds
Weekdays and early mornings see fewer visitors for cleaner compositions.
Classic Shots
- 📍Classic view of Escalante River
- 📍GSENM scenery
- 📍Trail or route documentation
Other GSENM Permits
Consider these alternatives or add them to your tracking list
Walk-Up7/10
Neon Canyon
Home to the famous Golden Cathedral. Free overnight permit required....
View Neon Canyon / Golden Cathedral Permit permit details and availabilityWalk-Up6/10
Spooky Gulch
Narrow slot canyon. Free permit for overnight....
View Spooky Gulch Permit permit details and availabilityWalk-Up6/10
Peek-a-Boo Gulch
Classic slot canyon. Free permit for overnight....
View Peek-a-Boo Gulch Permit permit details and availabilityWalk-Up6/10
Zebra Canyon
Distinctive striped slot canyon....
View Zebra Canyon Permit permit details and availabilityWalk-Up5/10
Harris Wash
Long canyon route to Escalante River....
View Harris Wash Permit permit details and availability