Road's End Permit Station

Overview

Road’s End Permit Station is the wilderness gateway at the end of the Cedar Grove road. If you’re launching Rae Lakes, Bubbs Creek, Woods Creek, or Mist Falls/Paradise Valley trips, this is where your backcountry plans become real—and rangers deliver quick, practical briefings before you head out.

How Permits Work

• Quota season (May 23–Sep 27, 2025): Open 7:00 am–3:30 pm. Pick up reserved permits as early as 1:00 pm the day before, or by 10:00 am on entry day; if you’ll be later, call the Wilderness Office to hold it or it may be released after 10:00 am. No night drops.
• Walk-up permits: A limited number are issued starting 1:00 pm the day before at the correct trailhead desk. If reserved parties no-show by 10:00 am, those permits may be released to people on the walk-up list.
• Fees (quota season): Non-refundable $15 reservation fee per permit, plus a refundable $5 per person fee.
• Non‑quota season (Sep 28, 2025–May 21, 2026): Self‑issue your free permit at the 24/7 kiosk outside the station.

Bring government ID for the trip leader (or listed alternate), your reservation confirmation, and your whole group for the ranger orientation.

Gear, Food Storage, and Bear Requirements

Cedar Grove does not rent bear canisters. If your route requires one (and many do), rent or buy before you reach Road’s End. Allowed food storage methods are an approved bear canister, a permanent bear box where provided, or a proper counter-balance hang where trees exist. From May 1–Oct 31, canisters are required on popular itineraries starting here, including the Rae Lakes Loop and the Woods/Bubbs Creek drainages.

Facilities and Trail Access

You’ll find parking, picnic tables, trash/recycling, food-storage boxes, and a water bottle–filling station in the Road’s End area. Multiple trailheads branch from here, including routes toward Mist Falls, Paradise Valley, Bubbs Creek, and beyond. Expect summer crowds at peak times—this is a busy launch point when conditions are prime.

Tips for Snagging and Managing Permits

• Be at the desk at 1:00 pm the day before to maximize walk-up odds.
• If holding a reservation, pick up by 10:00 am on entry day or call ahead to avoid release.
• No night drops—plan your travel accordingly.
• In non‑quota season, go straight to the kiosk to self‑issue.

Best Time to Visit

• For smooth pickup and less waiting: right at opening (7:00 am) or at 1:00 pm when walk-ups are issued.
• Weekdays typically see lighter lines than weekends.
• If you’re starting a big loop, grabbing your permit at 1:00 pm the day prior lets you hit the trail early next morning, beat heat, and stay ahead of the crowd.