The Deschutes and Willamette National Forests have announced that the two forests will move forward with implementing the Central Cascades Wilderness Permit System this year. The initial implementation of the permit system was delayed last year because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Beginning Friday, May 28 and ending on Friday, September 24, 2021 day-use permits will be required for 19 out of 79 trails in the Mt. Jefferson, Mt. Washington and Three Sisters wilderness areas. During the same period, overnight-use permits will be required for all trails in those same three wilderness areas. There are some exceptions for PCT hikers, volunteers and hunters. More information about the permits can be found here: fs.usda.gov/detail/willamette/specialplaces.
Reservations for the permits will open at 7am on April 6, 2021 at Recreation.gov. The Forest Service encourages everyone to “go online, don’t stand in line.”
Permits will be available in the following way:
Overnight-Use Availability:
- 40 percent full season available on April 6.
- 60 percent available on a seven-day rolling window.
Day-Use Availability:
- 20-50 percent of a trailhead’s full season will be available on April 6.
- 50-80 percent of a trailhead’s permits will be available on a seven-day rolling window to allow for people to take more spontaneous trips.
Reservations can also be made by calling 877-444-6777. Individuals can also get permits at Deschutes and Willamette National Forest offices, but it should be noted that due to COVID, National Forest offices may be closed to the public. People should call the office ahead of time to make sure it is open.
Processing fees will be applied to the permits regardless of how they are reserved. Day-use permits will be charged $1 per permit per person. Overnight-use permits will be charged $6 per trip. Overnight permits can include up to 12 people for a trip of up to 14 days.
