Those who want to do Backcountry Backpacking in the Joshua Tree National Park can now obtain the necessary permits digitally as of February 1st. The new system will be fully implemented on March 1st, and as the park transitions to the new system during the month of February – backpackers can continue to self-register at the backcountry trailheads. However, any trip planned after March 1st can only be booked with the new online permits.
The new system of issuing these backcountry permits online hopes to improve visitor experience by making it easier to obtain the permits as well as communicate important safety information. It will also provide Park Rangers with better data about backcountry backpacking usage to help them with future park planning and decision making.
An increase in park visitation has also seen a significant jump in backcountry use – resulting in overuse of sensitive areas as well as an impact the wilderness experience that many park visitors expect. Joshua Tree National Park Superintendent David Smith says “the new backcountry system will allow for a regulated flow of users to high-use areas and provide a way for campers to become more educated about ‘Leave No Trace’ principles before they come to the park.”
The reservation fee is $6 per wilderness backpacking permit and would allow for a group size of 1-12 people.
Link: https://www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/backpacking.htm
