Photo: Sean Greene

Another year, another hopeful bunch of hikers entering permit lotteries. It's great to see more and more people interested in exploring the great outdoors, and that our National Park Service is preserving these landscapes through limited foot traffic—but this all increases permit competitiveness. May the odds be ever in your favor.

For the unlucky many who can't wait another year to explore, here are more accessible alternatives to popular trails throughout the U.S.

 

1. No Enchantments? Try The Goat Rocks Wilderness 

Photo by: DitchRL

Frolic through a screensaver this summer instead of permitting purgatory. Goat Rocks is tucked between snow-capped Mount Rainier and Mount Adams and is relatively close to city hubs like Portland and Seattle. Free, self-issued permits are required and are available at the trailheads. Expect stunning displays of wildflowers during the early-to-mid summer, alpine lakes, and sweeping views from the switchbacks—enchanting all the same.

2. No Wave? Try White Pocket 

Photo: Jared Dillingham

This wild landscape has no marked trails and is only accessible with a legit 4WD vehicle, but no permit is required. It's a 20-by-20-mile zone within the Paria Plateau and Vermilion Cliffs National Monument in Arizona, close to the Utah border. The natural geological movement here is just as cool as any wave. 

3. No Half Dome? Try Cloud Rest 

Photo: Irene Kounty 

Still in Yosemite, this is a favorite among park rangers for its undeniable views and manageable climb and distance. There are no harrowing cable sections to overcome—just dreamy panoramic views from over 1,000 feet above Half Dome. It's considered one of Yosemite’s most epic hikes and is definitely worth the effort.

4. No Havasupai? Try Coyote Gulch 

Photo: NPS

Not many places can boast two arches, a natural bridge, and several waterfalls all along one relatively easy route. It's one of Escalante’s canyon country’s most popular destinations for a reason. Backcountry permits are required for all overnight stays in the Escalante District of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, but they’re relatively available. Pick them up at the town’s visitor center or at one of the entry trailheads.

5. No Kalalau Trail? Try Nua’lolo Trail

Photo: Kayak Kaua'i 

If you find yourself in lush Kaua‘i without a permit, opt for the out-and-back Nu‘alolo Trail. It's a comparably stunning, challenging, and wild day hike along the Nā Pali Coast ridgelines. If you're looking to amp up the difficulty, complete the loop on the Awa‘awapuhi Trail. Be advised: the elevation gain, often overgrown trail, and humidity are not for the faint of heart.

6. No Angel's Landing? Try The West Rim Trail 

Photo: Jason Wong

This is a trick answer, as the West Rim Trail begins along the same route used to reach Angels Landing. You’ll follow the crowds up the switchbacks, but instead of turning toward the infamous permitted chains, forge ahead to a plateau offering arguably the best view in Zion National Park. Time the weather window correctly and you'll even see a waterfall. Turn around here on a day hike, or explore the Horse Pasture Plateau and Wildcat Canyon backpacking options.