Summer block release (Apr-Jul trips)First-come
Release date follows the forest's annual mid-February pattern; confirm on Recreation.gov. Trip window: 2026-04-01 → 2026-07-31.
Opens: Feb 15, 2026
U.S. Forest Service · CO
Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness
Advance-reservation overnight permits for Conundrum Hot Springs, the Four Pass Loop, Crater Lake, and Capitol Lake zones.
Permit requiredovernightHigh-altitude itinerary
Access requirement
2 ways to get a permit
Fall block release (Aug-Nov trips)First-come
Release date follows the forest's annual mid-June pattern; confirm on Recreation.gov. Trip window: 2026-08-01 → 2026-11-30.
Opens: Jun 15, 2026
Permit rules
QuotaAdvance-reservation overnight permits are required in the busiest zones, including Conundrum Hot Springs, Capitol Lake, Crater Lake, and the Four Pass Loop (Snowmass and Geneva lakes); designated-campsite rules apply in some zones.
GroupMaximum 10 people per group, with no more than 15 stock animals.
FeesPer-person nightly fees plus a reservation fee apply for high-season overnight stays.
TransferPermit holder must carry the permit; reserved campsites are mandatory in Conundrum, Crater Lake, and Capitol Lake zones.
SafetyHigh passes exceed 12,000 feet and hold snow into July; afternoon storms are routine.
Where to stay
Campgrounds nearby
Official campground records near this destination. Availability is labeled with the source actually checked.
Maroon Bells Amphitheatre
Reservable
Aug 25—Aug 26—Aug 27—Aug 28—Aug 29—Aug 30—Aug 31—
Availability: Recreation.gov
EAST MAROON PORTAL PICNIC SITE
Reservable
Aug 25—Aug 26—Aug 27—Aug 28—Aug 29—Aug 302Aug 31—
Availability: Recreation.gov
Gothic
Reservable + first-come
Aug 25—Aug 26—Aug 27—Aug 28—Aug 29—Aug 30—Aug 31—
Availability: Recreation.gov
Silver Queen Campground
Reservable
Aug 25—Aug 26—Aug 27—Aug 28—Aug 29—Aug 30—Aug 31—
Availability: Recreation.gov