How to Score a Permit in the Angels Landing Lottery

Angels Landing is one of Zion National Park’s most famous adventure hikes, known for steep elevation gain, narrow ridges, and the chained section near the summit. The rewards are well worth the hike—but reaching the top requires scoring a permit in the Angels Landing lottery and some advance planning.

If you’re getting ready for your Zion adventure, here are three ways to get access to Angels Landing and hit the trail.

1. Apply for the Seasonal Angels Landing Lottery

The seasonal Angels Landing lottery is the best option for hikers who are planning a trip in advance and want the highest chance of securing a permit.

How it works:

• Visit Recreation.gov during the seasonal application window
• Select up to seven preferred hiking dates or time slots
• Submit your application with the $6 non-refundable fee
• Wait for lottery results to be announced
• If selected, pay the $3 per-person permit fee
• Print or download your permit confirmation email

This is a great option if you know your travel dates and want to lock in your permit ahead of time.

2. Enter the Day-Before Angels Landing Lottery

If you didn’t get selected in the seasonal lottery—or you’re more of the spontaneous type—the day-before lottery offers another opportunity to score an Angels Landing permit.

How it works:

• Apply on Recreation.gov the day before you’d like to hike
• Applications open just after midnight and close mid-afternoon (MT)
• Pay the $6 application fee
• Permits are awarded later that day
• If selected, pay $3 per-person permit fee
• Bring your confirmation email as your permit
  

This option is great for if your visit dates are flexible or you’re already at Zion National Park.

3. Hike Angels Landing with East Zion Adventures

If you don’t want to rely on lottery luck, booking a guided Angels Landing hike with East Zion Adventures is a great option—and it includes your Angels Landing permit.

How it works:

• Book your guided Angels Landing hike in advance
• Your permit is secured as part of your booking
• Meet up with experienced local guides
• Hike the trail with expert knowledge of terrain, conditions, and Zion’s landscape
  

This option gives you a guaranteed spot on the trail while exploring one of Zion’s most famous hikes with professionals who know the area inside and out.

Tips for Hiking Angels Landing

Angels Landing is a challenging yet rewarding hike that requires preparation and awareness on the trail.

What to Expect:

• 5.4 miles round trip
• Nearly 1,500 feet of elevation gain
• Steep switchbacks including Walter’s Wiggles
• Drop-offs on both sides near the summit with chains for support

What to Bring:

• Sturdy hiking shoes with good traction
• Plenty of water (at least 2 liters per person)
• Snacks or lunch
• Sun protection
• Camera or phone
• Your permit (printed or downloaded in advance)

Always check current trail conditions and weather forecasts before heading out.

Plan Your Zion Adventure with East Zion Adventures

Angels Landing is just one of the incredible hikes waiting for you in Zion National Park. Book your guided Angels Landing hike with East Zion Adventures and secure your Angels Landing permit while taking on one of Zion’s most iconic routes with experienced local guides.

Zion National Park Adventure Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to hike the full Angels Landing trail?
You only need a permit for the final chained section near the summit. Hiking up to Scout Lookout does not require a permit.

Is Angels Landing a difficult hike?
Yes. The trail is considered strenuous, with steep elevation gain and exposed sections near the top. Hikers should be comfortable with heights and prepared for a challenging climb.

What if I don’t get selected in the Angels Landing lottery?
You can try the day-before lottery or book a guided Angels Landing hike with East Zion Adventures, which includes your permit.

Can I hike Angels Landing without a guide?

Yes, you can hike Angels Landing without a guide as long as you secure a permit through the Angels Landing lottery. However, many hikers choose guided hikes for added trail knowledge, safety awareness, and a more immersive Zion experience.

What other adventure hikes are in Zion National Park?

In addition to Angels Landing, one of the most unique hikes is The Narrows, where you hike through the Virgin River surrounded by towering canyon walls. Always check water levels, flash flood conditions, and safety updates before heading out. East Zion Adventures also private guided hikes through The Narrows.

Another epic adventure is Observation Point, which offers a bird’s-eye view of Angels Landing and the surrounding canyon. You can reach the trailhead via Observation Point shuttle from Zion Ponderosa, making it easy to add this hike to your Zion itinerary.