Tar Gap

Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks · California

Tar Gap is one of the permitted entry points in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks on recreation.gov. Its current demand score is 5/100. Permit Ranger watches this pass around the clock and alerts you the moment a sold-out date opens up.

When permits are released

First-come-first-served: each entry date's reservable quota opens 6 months ahead at 7:00 AM Pacific (rolling window, no lottery). Reservations close 1 week before entry; the rest is walk-up only. Outside the quota season (late May – late September) permits are free and self-issued at the trailhead - no reservation needed.

Demand

Easy to get (5/100)

Dogs

Dogs are not allowed in this area.

Popular trails nearby

Frequently asked questions

When do Tar Gap permits open?

First-come-first-served: each entry date's reservable quota opens 6 months ahead at 7:00 AM Pacific (rolling window, no lottery). Reservations close 1 week before entry; the rest is walk-up only. Outside the quota season (late May – late September) permits are free and self-issued at the trailhead - no reservation needed. Check the recreation.gov page for the exact on-sale details for your dates.

What if my dates are sold out?

Cancellations happen all season as plans change. Add Tar Gap to a trip window on Permit Ranger and you get an instant alert the moment a date you need opens back up.

How competitive is Tar Gap?

The live demand score is 5/100. Odds of catching an opening are good - most dates stay bookable.

Does Permit Ranger book the permit for me?

No. Permit Ranger never books on your behalf. When a watched date opens, you get an alert with a direct link so you can book it yourself on recreation.gov.

Nearby passes

Book on recreation.gov · All Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks passes · Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks permit guide