At a Glance
🎟 Permit Required – All visitors must have either a self-guided permit or ranger-led tour ticket.
💲 Cost – $6 per person (self-guided) or $16 per adult for ranger-led tours.
⏰ When to Book – Reserve online 2–3 months in advance.
📍 Orientation Required – Self-guided permit holders must watch a short video at the Visitor Center.
👥 Group Size Limit – Maximum 10 people per group.
🚗 Trailhead Location – 14 miles from Visitor Center along the Scenic Drive.
Check Ranger-Led Tour Availability →
Why You Need a Permit
The Fiery Furnace isn’t your average trail. It’s a maze of sandstone fins, narrow passages, and hidden arches where many paths lead to dead ends. To keep this fragile desert environment protected — and to make sure hikers stay safe — the National Park Service requires all visitors to have a permit.
Permits limit the number of people in the Fiery Furnace each day. This means fewer crowds, a quieter experience, and less impact on delicate soils and rock formations.
How to Get a Fiery Furnace Permit
Option 1: Ranger-Led Tours
The easiest way to explore the Fiery Furnace is on a ranger-led tour.
When: Offered seasonally, usually spring through fall.
Booking: Reserve online at Recreation.gov. Tours often sell out quickly.
Cost: $16 per adult, $8 per child (subject to change).
Why Choose This: You’ll have a knowledgeable ranger leading the way, pointing out hidden features, and making sure you stay on the right path.
Option 2: Self-Guided Permits
If you’d like to explore at your own pace, you’ll need a self-guided permit.
Where to Get It: Reserve online at Recreation.gov or, if available, at the Visitor Center.
Requirements: Everyone in your group must first watch a short orientation video at the Visitor Center.
Cost: $6 per person (subject to change).
Tip: Permits sell out fast, especially in spring and fall. Book as soon as your dates are set.
Reserve a Self-Guided Permit →
Step-by-Step: Getting Your Permit
Go to Recreation.gov
Choose your date and permit type
Confirm group size and pay the fee
Stop at Arches Visitor Center → watch the required orientation video
Drive the Scenic Drive to the Fiery Furnace Trailhead
Hike responsibly & follow Leave No Trace
Tips for Success
Reserve your permit 2–3 months in advance for best availability.
Be flexible — if self-guided permits are sold out, ranger-led tours may still have openings.
Check for last-minute cancellations online.
Parking at the Fiery Furnace Trailhead is limited, so arrive early.
FAQ – Fiery Furnace Permits
Do you need a permit for the Fiery Furnace?
Yes. Every visitor must have a valid self-guided permit or a ranger-led tour ticket.
Can I get a same-day permit?
Sometimes. A limited number may be available at the Visitor Center on a first-come basis, but they sell out quickly.
How much does it cost?
Self-guided permits are $6 per person. Ranger-led tours cost $16 per adult and $8 per child (prices subject to change).
Are children allowed?
Yes, but children must be able to hike rugged terrain safely and complete the full loop without assistance.
Does my park entrance fee cover the permit?
No. The permit is separate from the Arches National Park entrance fee. You’ll need both.
Getting to the Fiery Furnace Trailhead
From Moab: Drive north on US-191 for 5 miles to the Arches entrance.
From the Visitor Center: Drive 14 miles along the Scenic Drive. The Fiery Furnace parking area is clearly marked, near Salt Valley Overlook.
Downloadable Permit Guide
Want a quick, printable version? Grab our one-page Fiery Furnace Permit Guide with steps, costs, and links to Recreation.gov.
Perfect for saving offline.
Download the Free Permit Guide →
Plan Ahead for Your Fiery Furnace Hike
Planning ahead is the hardest part of visiting the Fiery Furnace — once you’re in, it’s pure adventure. Whether you choose a ranger-led tour or explore on your own with a self-guided permit, getting your paperwork sorted early ensures you’ll enjoy one of Moab’s most unforgettable hikes.