The Conditions Desk
Right now, in the parks
A weekly look at alerts, crowd levels, and next-30-day permit availability for the parks people actually plan around. Spotted an outdated note? Refresh this page — we update each Tuesday.
5
Open
6
Limited
7
Lottery
- Timed-entry required 7am–4pmCrowds: highLimited — book now → Timed entry reservation
- Bear Lake corridor permit onlyAfternoon stormsCrowds: packedLimited — book now → Timed entry reservation
- Going-to-the-Sun vehicle reservation requiredCrowds: highLimited — book now → Vehicle reservation
- Peak-hour reservation required Sat/SunCrowds: packedLottery only → Half Dome cables lottery
- Shuttle only on Zion Canyon Scenic DriveCrowds: packedLottery only → Angels Landing permit
- Cadillac Summit reservation required
- Summit sunrise reservation requiredCrowds: moderateLimited — book now → Sunrise vehicle reservation
- Paradise corridor timed entryCrowds: highLottery only → Wonderland Trail permit
- Heat advisory below the rim (>110°F)Crowds: packedLottery only → Rim-to-rim backcountry permit
- Bear activity near Jenny LakeCrowds: highPermits open · Backcountry walk-ups open
- Bison rut — keep 25 yd distanceCrowds: packedPermits open · Camping availability tight
- Park Road open to Mile 43 only (Pretty Rocks)Crowds: moderateLottery only → Road lottery (September)
- Old Rag day-use ticket required Mar–NovCrowds: moderateLimited — book now → Old Rag day-use ticket
- Parking tag required park-wideCrowds: packedPermits open · Parking tag — buy at entrance
- High wind advisory (gusts >40 mph)Crowds: moderatePermits open · Walk-up camping at Belle/White Tank
- Extreme heat — hike before 9amCrowds: lowPermits open · No permits required
- Generals Highway: chains may be required at nightCrowds: highLottery only → Mt. Whitney lottery
- Hoh Rd open — Sol Duc Falls Trail muddyCrowds: moderateLottery only → Coast/Enchanted Valley permit